Chennai, May 25: Defending champions Chennai Super Kings stormed into the final of the Indian Premier League with an emphatic 86-run victory over Delhi Daredevils, riding on Murali Vijay's breathtaking 58-ball 113 in what turned out to be a lopsided contest here tonight.
Vijay produced the fastest century of this edition as CSK piled up an imposing 222 for five and then bundled out Delhi for 136 to keep themselves on course for their third consecutive titles. They will take on Kolkata Knight Riders in the summit showdown at the same venue on Sunday.
Vijay reached his century off a mere 51 balls and by the time he was run out on the last ball of CSK innings, the right-hander had helped his team to an imposing total, which was also this season's highest. The victory margin at the M A Chidambaram Stadium was also the highest in terms of runs.
This was Vijay's second century in IPL, the most by an Indian player.
Chasing a daunting total, the Daredevils, who surprisingly benched spearhead Morne Morkel in their biggest match of the tournament, buckled under pressure.
Vijay, who reached his century when he flicked Varun Aaron off his pads behind square, also ensured the two-time champions reach the title clash of the cash-rich league for a record fourth time.
Vijay bludgeoned 15 fours -- 13 of which had come before his hundred—and four sixes after Daredevils skipper Virender Sehwag invited the hosts to bat on winning the toss.
CSK were off to a rousing start with Vijay finding the ropes with consummate ease on what seemed like a good track for batting.
The local boy was well-supported by Michael Hussey who contributed with 20 off 22 balls before Aaron had the Aussie caught behind by Naman Ojha.
But Vijay was his usual self as he continued his onslaught that left the Delhi attack demoralised.
