CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Rachin Ravindra Feels the MS Dhoni Craze in Chennai for the First Time
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener Rachin Ravindra experienced the incredible passion of MS Dhoni fans in Chennai for the very first time. During the match against Mumbai Indians, when CSK needed just four runs to win, the entire Chepauk Stadium waited eagerly for a signature Dhoni six. But this time, Ravindra seized the moment, hitting a six over deep midwicket to seal a four-wicket victory for CSK.
After the match, Ravindra said, “When you’re on the field, your focus is solely on winning the game, but it was hard to ignore the atmosphere. When Dhoni walks in, you can feel the whistles and roar echoing across the stadium. Sharing the crease with him was truly special for me.”
Fans Were Waiting for a Classic Dhoni Finish
Ravindra admitted that the fans in the stadium were hoping he would give Dhoni the strike so he could finish the match in his iconic style. He said, “Everyone wanted me to hand him the strike so Dhoni could finish the game. He has done it many times for CSK and will continue to do so. But for me, the important thing was to take the team across the line.”
Opening Opportunity in CSK
Due to Devon Conway’s injury during IPL 2024, Ravindra got a chance to open the innings. In this season’s auction, CSK used the Right to Match card to bring him back and gave him the role of opener. This decision paid off, as Ravindra scored an unbeaten 65 off 45 balls to help CSK chase down a 156-run target.
Ravindra shared, “A few days ago, coach Stephen Fleming told me I’d be opening this season. It’s a matter of pride for me because CSK has a rich legacy of openers – from Michael Hussey, Shane Watson, Brendon McCullum, Faf du Plessis, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Matthew Hayden to Devon Conway.”
Crucial Partnership with Ruturaj Gaikwad
Ravindra shared an important 67-run partnership for the second wicket with captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, laying a strong foundation for CSK. He stabilized the innings during tough moments and accelerated in the 18th over by hitting two sixes off left-arm wrist spinner Vignesh Puthur.
He added, “I’ve played quite a bit of cricket recently, especially in the Champions Trophy, which helped me adjust to these conditions. Last season didn’t end the way I wanted, but I’m gradually finding my rhythm. Hopefully, I can keep playing my shots and win more games for the team.”
With this emphatic win, CSK has made a strong start to IPL 2025, and fans are hopeful that the team will continue its stellar performance.
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