MS Dhoni was an elated captain as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) defeated Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 27 runs in the final to clinch the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 title in Dubai on Friday (October 15).
Asked to bat first, CSK posted a massive 192/3 in their stipulated 20 overs on the back of Faf du Plessis’ 86 off 59 balls. Moeen Ali (37*), Ruturaj Gaikwad (32), and Robin Uthappa (31) also made notable contributions with the bat.
In reply, Knight Riders were restricted to 165/9 despite the 91-run opening stand between Shubman Gill (51) and Venkatesh Iyer (50). Shardul Thakur (3-38), Josh Hazlewood (2-29), and Ravindra Jadeja (2-37) starred with the ball, which ensured the fourth IPL title for Chennai.
Speaking after the game, Dhoni began by complimenting KKR for their remarkable comeback in the second phase of IPL 2021.
“Before I start talking about CSK, it's important I talk about KKR. For the position they were in after the first phase, to perform this well, it's very difficult. If any team deserved to win the IPL this year, it is KKR for the way they have played. I think the break helped them,” he said at the post-match presentation ceremony.
“Yes we are most consistent team looking at the stats but we have also lost finals. Not letting the opposition in is something we conciously wanted to improve. I hope CSK in the coming years will be known for that. We don't really talk a lot. It's more one on one. People are more open that way. The moment you talk in a team room there is a bit of pressure. You can't deliver without a good team. We also have great individuals as well,” he added while speaking about his own team.
Dhoni also thanked the fans for their support in UAE and hoped to play in Chennai next year
“I would love to thank the fans. We are in Dubai now. Even when we played in South Africa, we always got good amount of support. Thanks to all of them. If feels like Chepauk, Chennai. Hopefully we will come back to play for the Chennai fans next year,” he remarked.
The 40-year-old also talked about his future with the CSK franchise, whom he has been leading ever since the inception of IPL in 2008.
"Well it's not about me playing for CSK, it's about what is best for CSK. The core group has carried the team for 10 years. So, we need to see what is best.”
When asked about the legacy he has left at CSK, Dhoni cheekily replied: "Well, I still haven't left (smiles)", hinting that he might be seen wearing the yellow in the next edition of IPL as well.
(Inputs from Cricbuzz)
