IPL 2024: CSK Captain Gaikwad Praises Dhoni, Pathirana for Dominant Win Against MI

In a thrilling encounter at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, the Chennai Super Kings secured their first away win of the season with a 20-run triumph over the Mumbai Indians. Led by skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shivam Dube, CSK posted a formidable total of 206 for the loss of 4 wickets before an explosive inning from MS Dhoni sealed the victory for the visitors. Gaikwad, who top-scored for CSK with a brilliant 69 off 40 balls, credited MS Dhoni’s whirlwind knock of 20 runs off just 4 deliveries as the turning point of the match. He emphasized Dhoni’s three consecutive sixes, describing them as crucial in tilting the game in CSK’s favor.

“Our young wicketkeeper scoring three sixes down the order helped a lot and I think that was the difference,” Gaikwad said during the post-game presentation.

CSK’s Batting Strategy and Gaikwad’s Reflections:
Reflecting on CSK’s batting performance, Gaikwad revealed that the team initially aimed for a total above 200 but was slightly hindered by Jasprit Bumrah’s impressive spell. He highlighted the importance of accumulating extra runs on a high-scoring ground like Wankhede. “To start off, on this kind of ground, you need 10-15 extra runs. We were looking at 215-220, but Bumrah bowled well,” Gaikwad stated.

Batting Order Shuffle and Bowling Excellence:
CSK made a strategic change in the batting order, with Ajinkya Rahane and Rachin Ravindra opening the innings. Gaikwad explained that Rahane, filling in for him due to a niggle, aimed to score quick runs upfront. He also expressed his adaptability to bat at any position in the lineup. “Jinks was carrying a bit of a niggle. So, thought it was better for him to open and get away quick runs. I’m fine batting anywhere,” Gaikwad affirmed. CSK’s bowling unit showcased exceptional performance, limiting MI to 186 for six. Gaikwad praised the bowling execution, particularly highlighting Matheesa Pathirana’s remarkable spell of 4 overs 4 for 28. He likened Pathirana’s bowling to the legendary Lasith Malinga, known for his lethal yorkers.

“Our Malinga bowled exceptionally well and nailed those yorkers,” Gaikwad remarked.