Chennai Super Kings (CSK) became the first team to qualify for the IPL 2021 playoffs after defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by six wickets on Thursday (September 30). CSK skipper MS Dhoni thanked the fans for their constant support to the team through ups and downs.

Super Kings had failed to qualify for the top four in the IPL 2020, but they bounced back strongly this season with 9 wins in 11 matches so far. The CSK captain said they are happy to repay the faith of fans who stood by them.

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"It means a lot, because the last time, we said we wanted to come back strong. We are known for that and there was a lot at stake. You won't always win games and a lot didn't go our way last time, and it's important not to make excuses and we have done that this year," Dhoni told Ian Bishop during the post-match presentation.

"Not much needs to be said of the fans, who have supported us through thick and thin and I'm glad we have repaid their faith," he added.

CSK asked SRH to bat first after winning the toss. The Kane Williamson-led side couldn't put on a big total and they were restricted to 134/7 in 20 overs. Wriddhiman Saha was the top scorer with 44 runs off 46 deliveries.

In reply, the three-time IPL champions got off to a good start with a 75-run partnership for the opening stand. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Faf du Plessis scored 45 and 41 runs respectively, before Ambati Rayudu and Dhoni ensured their victory.

"The boys did well to keep the momentum going, and they've taken responsibilities to keep all departments of the game in balance so the players and the support staff get the credit," said Dhoni.

Speaking about the nature of the pitch, Dhoni said that the batters needed to hit the ball straight to succeed on this track which didn't have much bounce. 

"The bounce of the wicket was different - instead of knee height, it was shin height, and once the batsmen figured out that they have to hit straight, they succeeded," he further said.

"The bowlers tried to swing it upfront and got hit straight when they pitched it up too much, but then adjusted very well. I told the bowlers that they needed to exploit the conditions in today's game. If the odd ball stopped early on, it started coming onto the bat later," he added.

(With ANI Inputs)