Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni credited Ravindra Jadeja for their 15-run win against reigning champions Gujarat Titans at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Tuesday in the first qualifier. Dhoni feels Jadeja becomes very difficult to hit if he gets favorable conditions as he did at Chepauk.
The left-arm orthodox got the ball to spin despite bowling quick through the air. The veteran returned with impressive figures of 2-18 in his quota of four overs and accounted for Dasun Shanaka and David Miller. He also completed 150 wickets in the IPL and became the first left-arm spinner to reach the coveted feat.
Jadeja kept the GT batters at bay in the middle overs and he also got the support from Maheesh Theekshana, who returned with impressive figures of 2-28 in his quota of four overs.
Moreover, Jadeja added a crucial cameo of 16-ball 22 to help his team post 172 runs on the board after they were put into bat by Hardik Pandya.
MS Dhoni said in the post-match presentation, “If Jaddu gets conditions that help him. he’s very difficult to hit. His bowling changed the game. Not to forget his partnership with Moeen.”
On the other hand, Dhoni also shed light on his IPL future and revealed he will take a call on it later. However, he confirmed he will be seen in CSK colors, either as a player or as a coach.
Dhoni added, “I don’t know (back next year?) – I have 8-9 months to decide. Why take that headache now. I’ll always be there for CSK, where it’s playing or something outside.”
Meanwhile, Ruturaj Gaikwad continued his purple patch as he scored a fine knock of 60 runs off 44 balls and played a key role in helping CSK get past the 170-run mark. Ergo, the flamboyant batter was awarded Player of the Match.
Chennai Super Kings will play their 10th IPL final on Sunday at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.
