New Delhi:
MS Dhoni's superman like-exhibition with the bat and behind the stumps during Chennai Super Kings’ 80-run win against the Delhi Capitals at the MA Chidambaram stadium on Wednesday showed his brilliance. Dhoni blasted 44 off 22, including four boundaries and three sixes and shared partnerships of 43 and 34 with Ravindra Jadeja and Ambati Rayudu in the death overs to boost Chennai Super Kings to a big total. In Delhi Capitals’ chase, Dhoni effected two stumpings and took a catch as Delhi Capitals stumbled to their heaviest loss in the IPL 2019 season. Dhoni was named the Man of the Match for his exploits and he revealed his success mantra in the post-match presentation.
When it came to his wicketkeeping, Dhoni said, “I think it's something that's come from tennis ball cricket. But you still have to do the basics and graduate to that level. If you want to keep like that you can make mistakes; so I still think basics are most important.” On his batting, Dhoni remarked, “Watch the ball, hit the ball. You've spent time, you know the variations. By the 20th over you're almost ready and you swing at everything. It's easier for somebody who has played 10-15 deliveries than someone who has just come in.”
Speaking about Dhoni’s abilities, Ravindra Jadeja, who picked up 3/9 in his three overs emphatically said, “In one word, MS Dhoni is a genius.”
This was the last league game at the MA Chidambaram stadium and with the first qualifier being held here, the Chennai Super Kings players decided to do a lap of honour around the stadium to thank their fans for their support. Dhoni said he was overwhelmed by the love he got from the people of Tamil Nadu
“I thought they will retain me. I will have to go and talk to the owners, ask if I will get retained or not. But I am not going to tell the trade secret. I have always said it's very special to get that kind of a nickname. It's a big nickname that they have given me. It feels really special. I didn't realize that it was part of the first CSK song. The way I got accepted and the whole of Tamil Nadu -- don't call my name, they call me 'Thala'. It's very nice and they have always supported not only me but the whole team,” Dhoni said.
With Chennai Super Kings virtually assured of a top-two spot, they take on Kings XI Punjab in their last league game at Mohali while Delhi Capitals will take on Rajasthan Royals in their last league game.
