Vijay century sets up Super Kings win

OPENER Murali Vijay's dazzling century steered the record-breaking Chennai Super Kings to a commanding 23-run victory over the Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League.

Vijay, relishing his opening batsman role, smashed a terrific 127 which, along with a solid 62 from Albie Morkel and 34 from Matthew Hayden, took the Super Kings to a massive 246 for five – the highest total ever recorded in the IPL.

Shane Watson (60) and Naman Ojha (94 not out) replied well, but the Royals were restricted to 223 for five.

Vijay had put his team in command from the outset, smashing Yusuf Pathan for a boundary in the first over and hitting Sumit Narwal, who shared the new ball, for a six and two boundaries off consecutive deliveries.

Watson, playing his first match this season, joined Ojha and gave the Royals hope as he helped add 97 for the third wicket. The Royals were left needing 72 from the last five overs, but Watson was bowled by Bollinger and he finished the best bowler on either side, finishing with two for 15 from his four overs.