Chennai Super Kings secured their fourth consecutive triumph over Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL), handing fellow five-time champions a 20-run defeat at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday (14 April).
Whilst many commendable individual performances had a part to play in Chennai’s victory, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad felt ‘young’ wicketkeeper MS Dhoni’s three sixes proved to be the differentiating factor between the two teams.
Speaking about the importance of Dhoni’s knock, Gaikwad stated:
Gaikwad Calls Matheesha Pathirana 'CSK's Malinga'
Although Chennai would not have breached the 200-run mark had it not been for Dhoni’s efforts, they still needed their bowlers to be at their best to defend the total on a ground which is known for significantly facilitating teams during chases, owing to dew.
Matheesha Pathirana delivered just what the doctor ordered for CSK, picking up four wickets and conceding only 28 runs in his four-over spell. Calling him CSK’s very own ‘Malinga’, Gaikwad said:
CSK Captain Explains Why Ajinkya Rahane Opened the Innings
There was a surprise when Chennai came out to bat as Ajinkya Rahane was sent to open the innings alongside Rachin Ravindra, with Gaikwad batting at three. On being asked about the rationale behind the decision, the CSK skipper stated Rahane was carrying a niggle.
(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)