Credit: BCCI/IPL
The five-times champions Chennai Super Kings became the first side to get eliminated from the playoffs race after a four-wicket defeat against Punjab Kings at Chepauk on Wednesday, April 30. Batting first CSK were looking in good position to go past 200 runs but the things completely changed after Yuzvendra Chahal’s hat-trick in the 19th over. From 184/5 in 18..2 overs, CSK were bowled out for 190 runs in 19.2 overs. After the match, CSK skipper MS Dhoni reflected on how these last few deliveries play a crucial part in the close match.
After the match, MS Dhoni felt that CSK had put enough runs on the board batting first but they were still below par. “I think the batting - yes, it was the first time we put enough runs on the board. But was it a par score? I feel slightly short. Yes, a bit demanding from the batters but I feel we could've got slightly more. I feel we need to take our catches. The partnership between Brevis and Sam was excellent. We didn't play the last four deliveries, and the second last over four batters got out. In close games, those 7 deliveries mean a lot,” Dhoni was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz.
Dewald Brevis can be an asset going ahead: MS Dhoni
Speaking further, MS Dhoni also heaped praise on CSK’s newest addition Dewald Brevis for his contribution so far. Coming as a replacement for injured Gurjapneet Singh, the South African batter had an impressive debut for CSK with a 43-run knock in the last game against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Apart from that, he also scored a crucial 32-run against PBKS and also took a spectacular catch in the boundary line.
“It's the momentum in the middle order (Brevis offers). He's also a very good fielder, he has power and he can hit good balls for boundaries. And he brings good energy. Happy with the way he's playing. He can be an asset going ahead,” MS Dhoni said.
