IPL 2023 fixed? Viral image of "Runner up CSK" from Ahmedabad stadium raises concern

An image from Ahmedabad is going viral on internet, which reads "Runner Up CSK" ahead of IPL 2023 final.

The IPL 2023 journey has come full circle as the Chennai Super Kings, led by MS Dhoni, started the blockbuster season against the defending champions Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Now, in the final match of the season, both teams will face each other once again at the same venue, competing for the prestigious IPL trophy. Chennai aims to secure their record-equaling fifth title in their 10th appearance in a final, while Gujarat hope to replicate Chennai's success by becoming the second team to successfully defend the title.

Image of "Runner up Chennai Super Kings" on giant screen sparks controversy

Prior to the commencement of the final in Ahmedabad, an image from the venue caused a stir on social media, leading to numerous claims of the IPL 2023 final being fixed. The image captured the giant screen displaying the words "Runner up Chennai Super Kings," triggering controversy and speculation.

Fans react to image of "Runner up Chennai Super Kings"

The image quickly went viral on social media, eliciting concern from CSK fans and delight from avid followers of the Gujarat Titans. Here are some of the reactions...

Some speculated that it could be a screen test conducted before the grand final, possibly involving the Gujarat Titans team as well. This will be the third encounter between Chennai and Gujarat this season. In their first match in Ahmedabad, the Gujarat Titans had a successful start to their title defense campaign. However, CSK avenged their defeat when they faced off in the Qualifier 1 at Chepauk, securing a spot in the final as the first team of the season to do so. Hardik Pandya's side took a longer route to the final, but they did it in style with a convincing 62-run victory in the Qualifier 2 at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Friday. The Gujarat Titans have had a strong record at the venue, winning five out of their eight games this season. Their last loss at this venue was against the Delhi Capitals on May 2. Since then, they have been on a three-game winning streak.

Chennai have experienced a remarkable turnaround in 2023 after finishing ninth in the previous year's table. Dhoni relinquished the captaincy at the beginning of the season but reclaimed it from Ravindra Jadeja in the second half, leading the team to their impressive current position.