Ruturaj Gaikwad reaction

CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad credited MS Dhoni’s superb cameo and Matheesa Pathirana’s sensational bowling effort for Chennai’s 20-run win over MI in the IPL 2024 match at the Wankhede Stadium. Gaikwad addressed Dhoni as a ‘young wicketkeeper’ while acknowledging his unbeaten 20-run cameo as a game-changer. Dhoni’s ballistic 4-ball 20 garnished forceful fifties by Shivam Dube and Ruturaj Gaikwad as Chennai powered to a strong 206 for four against Mumbai, which turned out to be a winning total. “The young wicketkeeper (MS Dhoni) scoring those three sixes helped us a lot, that proved to be the difference. We needed those 10-15 extra runs for this kind of venue. In the middle phase, Bumrah bowled really well. I feel we were spot on with our execution with the ball despite them scoring some great shots. I would have taken 6 overs 60 at the powerplay,” Ruturaj Gaikwad said after the win over MI. Chennai were under the pump inside the Powerplay as the opening pair of Mumbai were doing some real damage. However, the introduction of Matheesha Pathirana in the 8th over, turned things around in the blink of an eye as he got two big wickets in his first over and got his side back in the game. Chennai once again let another partnership build before Ruturaj Gaikwad brought Pathirana in and he yet again delivered with a wicket. This was well backed up by the likes of Shardul Thakur and Tushar Deshpande who went for just 5 runs combined in their final overs. In the end, Mustafizur Rahman got hit but got David out and then Pathirana closed things out well. IPL 2024 Full Coverage | IPL 2024 Points Table and Standings | 2024 IPL Full Schedule Gaikwad lauded Pathirana’s performance, emphasizing his critical role in the team’s bowling strategy. Alongside Pathirana, Tushar Deshpande and Shardul Thakur also received praise for their contributions, highlighting the collective effort of the bowling unit. Looking ahead, Gaikwad emphasized the importance of maintaining simplicity in approach and fostering a positive mindset among the team members. “You need to be on the mark with bowling and batting at this venue. Our Malinga (Matheesa Pathirana) bowled really well today, he nailed those yorkers. Not to forget, Tushar and Shardul also did well. (On plans ahead) I think we need to keep it simple, encourage all to be in a good headspace and continue the same way. Jinks was carrying a bit of a niggle, so thought it was better for him to open. I’m fine batting anywhere, plus it is the added responsibility as the team captain,” Ruturaj added. Published By: Saurabh Kumar Published On: Apr 15, 2024 Tune In