The foundation of SRH's score was a massive 115-run second-wicket stand between Pandey and the league's top run-getter, David Warner (57 off 45), on a Chepauk pitch that was perfectly suited for batting.
Shane Watson sparked a comeback for CSK with an explosive 96 off 53 balls, reminding everyone of his IPL final heroics. The six-wicket win over SRH puts CSK in a very strong position to reach the playoffs.
MS Dhoni can breathe a sigh of relief now that Shane Watson has rediscovered his hitting form.
Following a crucial 77-run stand with Suresh Raina, Watson took charge and systematically dismantled the Sunrisers' bowling attack.
The Sunrisers found themselves in a tough spot when Watson managed to neutralize and overpower their key wicket-taker, Rashid Khan.
Sandeep Sharma had a nightmare outing, giving away 54 runs in 3.5 overs as Watson punished his short-pitched deliveries with ease. With limited options, captain Bhuvneshwar Kumar had to bowl the 19th over, leaving Sandeep to defend a mere nine runs in the final over.
Kedar Jadhav put the game beyond doubt, sealing the victory with a decisive six on the second ball of the over.