IPL 2021: “My innings was a crucial one” – MS Dhoni reacts after CSK reach final for record 9th time

IPL 2021: “My innings was a crucial one” – MS Dhoni reacts after CSK reach final for record 9th time

MS Dhoni

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni showcased his terrific finishing skills after a long time during the qualifier against Delhi Capitals (DC) in IPL 2021 on Sunday. MSD, one of the greatest finishers of all time, played an outstanding knock of 18* off just six deliveries, including 3 fours and a massive six.

His quick-fire knock ensured yet another berth in the finals for the Chennai-based franchise. During the post-match presentation ceremony, Dhoni shed light on the importance of his knock with respect to the context of the game.

“My innings was a crucial one. Delhi has a very good bowling attack. They exploited the conditions well, so we knew it would be tough. I’ve not done a lot in the tournament, so I wanted to look for the ball and see what the bowler could do. I was batting well in the nets. But wasn’t thinking too much, if you think too much while batting then you mess your plans up,” Dhoni said.

“Good to see how well Ruturaj has improved”

Ruturaj Gaikwad
Ruturaj Gaikwad

The 40-year-old also leapt praises for young opening batter Ruturaj Gaikwad, who won the ‘Player of the Match’ award for the knock of 70 runs off 50 balls. He is currently placed at the second spot in the race for the Orange Cap with over 600 runs at a brilliant average of over 46.

“Whenever Ruturaj and I have a chat, it’s a simple chat. Want to know what he was thinking. It’s good to see how well he has improved. He is someone willing to bat 20 overs,” he added

CSK made a 360-degree turnaround from their last year’s performance where they failed to qualify for the playoffs. MS Dhoni credited all the stakeholders for stepping up and landing the results in the favour of the three-time title winners.

“Last season was the first time we didn’t qualify into the playoffs. But we wanted to just make use of the 3-4 games left last season, and a lot of our batters made use of that. That is the reason why we have come back strongly this season,” the CSK skipper signed off.

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