Often labelled as one of the most popular and successful teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Chennai Super Kings (CSK), to everyone's surprise this season, have looked a mere shadow of the three-time champions we cherished in the past. From losing key players, struggling for form to unfavourable results, nothing has gone CSK's way in the tournament this year.

With seven losses in 10 matches, the Chennai brigade is currently languishing at the last spot in the points table. Their recent seven-wicket loss to Rajasthan Royals (RR) has potentially ended their Playoffs hopes and the fans aren't impressed. Amid CSK's poor run, skipper MS Dhoni has drawn a lot of flak for the fortunes of the 'Yellow Brigade' this season.

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The Punjab opener had anchored the chase for his team with a brilliant knock of 77 runs which allowed them to tie the match and push it into a 'Super Over'. Facing a daunting task of defending just five runs in an over, Punjab were once again aided by Rahul whose brilliant piece of glovework, that led to the run-out of Quinton de Kock, allowed his team to tie the first 'Super Over' before eventually winning it in the second.

My thala ️️ pic.twitter.com/Av7DUPyn8R

Rahul's performance with the willow had already earned him plaudits, but it was his exceptional run-out that became the highlight of the match. The right-handed batsman was lauded by cricket pundits and fans alike on social media. Amongst all the praise, one Punjab fan shared the photo of Rahul's run-out on Twitter alongside the caption: "My Thala".

There is only one Thala Gajal and everyone knows who he is.

In response to the fan's tweet, Rahul, who can't seem to do any wrong this season, won many hearts by reminding everyone that there is only one Thala. "There is only one Thala Gajal and everyone knows who he is," Rahul replied.

A thrilling win against Mumbai did give Punjab a ray of hope to turn their fortunes this season but the road ahead is extremely tough. Having lost six games in nine matches so far, the Rahul-led side have little margin for error if they intend to make the cut for the Playoffs this season. And, their next clash, which against table-topper Delhi Capitals (DC) on October 20, is not going to be easy either. 

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