Chennai Super Kings (CSK) retained Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina in hope of getting their old charm back in the upcoming season.

While Dhoni and Raina have made an impact in IPL with their skills, all-rounder Jadeja isn't far behind. His batting contributions have helped his team crossing the line along with his bowling. 

In a chat with The New Indian Express, Jadeja revealed what Dhoni had told him after the return of CSK. “Mahi bhai (Dhoni) told me that I will get batting opportunities in the IPL this year. He said that I have the ability of a proper batsman, and I am not the flash in the pan type of batsman. And I should think like that,” Jadeja was quoted.

“It was really encouraging for me. So, I am concentrating more on the batting aspect of my game and trying to get used to playing the anchor role,” he continued.

While CSK was suspended, Jadeja played for Gujarat Lions in last two IPL seasons. The off-spinner said that he is happy with his bowling performance. “If I am satisfied with the way I have bowled, I do not think much about other things. If I am executing my plans, I am happy,” he added.

The 29-year-old scored a match-winning knock of 113 for Saurashtra against Jharkhand in a group match of the Vijay Hazare trophy on Sunday, despite suffering a side-strain. Jharkhand failed to defend their total of 329-9, as Jadeja’s century guided Saurashtra to a four-wicket win, getting to the target in 48.2 overs.

“The pain was unbearable sometimes while playing certain shots. But this was really important for my self-confidence. It is morale boosting. To chase the target (330) under the circumstances is really special for me,” he said.