Chennai Super Kings crushed Kings XI Punjab by nine wickets to end their worst-ever IPL season here Sunday on a positive note, with Ruturaj Gaikwad’s third successive half-century providing hope for a bright future.

The result also cut short KXIP’s campaign in the 13th season of the lucrative event.

KXIP needed a win in their final league game to remain in contention for the play-offs besides depending on other results. But CSK had other ideas.

Bringing his big-hitting prowess to the fore, Deepak Hooda lifted a floundering KXIP to 153 for six with a counterattacking 30-ball 62 after being invited to bat.