Chennai Super Kings keep playoff hopes alive with big win

In the process, Delhi Capitals' playoff aspirations were cast into doubt, with their net run rate taking a major hit as a result of the one-sided encounter

Mumbai: Chennai Super Kings 208-6, Delhi Capitals 117 - Chennai Super Kings win by 91 runs

Scorecard

Devon Conway dominated with the bat before Moeen Ali starred with his off-spin as Chennai Super Kings kept their playoff hopes alive with a big win over Delhi Capitals.

In the process, coming out on top by 91 runs, Delhi's playoff aspirations were cast into doubt, with their net run rate taking a major hit as a result of the one-sided encounter.

Conway smashed 87, putting on 110 for the first wicket with Ruturaj Gaikwad, before Shivam Dube continued that strong start by hitting 32 in just 19 balls.

Ambati Rayudu came and went, while Moeen hit two boundaries in his four-ball cameo. Alongside them, MS Dhoni – back as CSK's captain – provided further impetus at the back end of the innings with 21 off just eight deliveries.

Anrich Nortje picked up three wickets but was expensive, while the India pair of Shardul Thakur and Kuldeep Yadav were also taken for plenty of punishment.

^{Conway starred once again for CSK}

Chasing 209 in response, Capitals started in promising fashion but then collapsed in a heap. From 36 for 1 in the fifth over and 72 for 2 in the eighth, they were bowled out for just 117.

Mitchell Marsh top-scored with 25, with contributions from Thakur (24) and Rishabh Pant, who was typically dynamic for 21.

But otherwise, Chennai's bowlers had their measure: Mukesh Choudhary, Simarjeet Singh and allrounder Dwayne Bravo picked up two wickets each, with Maheesh Theekshana wily in picking up the key scalp of David Warner.

Moeen was the focal point, however; he ended with figures of 3 for 13, accounting for Marsh, Pant and Ripal Patel.

CSK's route to the playoffs remains dependent on plenty of good fortune after their woeful start to the season, but they are up to eighth in the table with three matches remaining.