CSK set Punjab 193-run target

Chennai, April 25 : An aggressive batting display by Chennai Super Kings helped them post a strong score of 192 for three against Kings XI Punjab in an Indian Premier League (IPL) match at M.A. Chidambaram Stadium here on Saturday.

CSK won the toss and chose to bat. And skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni's decision was justified by the performance of their batsmen.

The opening duo of Dwayne Smith and Brendon McCullum started in top gear and piled the pressure quickly on the Punjab bowlers, putting up 50 runs on the board in just 4.4 overs.

Even Smith's (26 runs off 13 balls) departure, after a cameo knock punctuated by three fours and two sixes, did not slow down the momentum.

McCullum (66 off 44) took over the reins of brisk run-scoring and together with Suresh Raina put up a 66 run second-wicket stand.

Their task were made easier by the Punjab men who were sloppy on the field, dropping several catches.

That put CSK in a strong position of launching into an all-out attack in the death overs when McCullum perished after bludgeoning eight fours and three sixes with the score at 116 for two in 12.1 overs.

Dhoni (41 off 27) ensured they his team had a grand stand finish entertaining the crowd with some lusty blows towards the end.Kings XI made two changes to their team, leaving out Australian Glenn Maxwell and Shivam Sharma.

George Bailey returned to captain the side and Karanveer Singh was also included in the side.

CSK named the same team that beat Royal Challengers Bangalore away from home.