South African batsmen Faf du Plessis was effectively surplus to requirement, as the Chennai Super Kings beat the Kings XI Punjab by 97 runs in Saturday’s one-sided Indian Premier League fixture at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chepauk.

Du Plessis, who usually bats at four or five in the order, was not required in a formidable final total. Skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, instead, arrived at the crease ahead of the Proteas star, scoring 41 not out and 18 not out respectively to cap a large tally of 192 for three.

Du Plessis was later at hand to hold the key catch that dismissed the dangerous Virender Sehwag, as Punjab’s pursuit faltered. South African David Miller, too, managed a mere three in an inadequate reply of 95 for nine. Miller and company were entirely undone by a Chennai attack spearheaded by Jadeja and fellow spinner Ravindra Jadeja.

The pair conceded a mere 36 runs in eight overs, exploiting conditions conducive to spin very well. New Zealander Brendon McCullum was named Man of the Match, after gathering a quickfire 66 – eight fours and a trio of sixes included – in the Super Kings’ triumphant total.

The result powered Chennai to the top of the eight-team standings with 10 points, while the Kings XI Punjab slipped to stone last on four.