The much-awaited clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Gujarat Titans (GT) is set to electrify the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on May 23rd (Tuesday). As the defending champions, CSK cannot afford to underestimate GT, as they were outplayed earlier in the tournament. Interestingly, CSK skipper MS Dhoni played a pivotal role in the development of Tushar Deshpande, who has taken an impressive 20 wickets in his debut season.
CSK, however, will be concerned about their batters’ performance against spinners during the middle overs. All eyes will be on the elegant left-handed batsman, Devon Conway, who not only anchors the team but has also made the most of his opportunities. Conway’s remarkable record includes 585 runs in 13 innings, with a strike rate of 138.63 and an astonishing average of 53.18.
Despite veteran batter Ambati Rayudu’s recent struggles, it seems unlikely that CSK will make changes to their playing combination. They might consider promoting Moeen Ali up the order, adding an element of surprise to their strokeplay.
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On the other side, GT skipper Hardik Pandya needs to conjure something extraordinary, as CSK is a different team when it comes to the playoffs. The spin duo of Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad will have to bring their ‘A’ game if GT intends to outfox CSK’s batters.
During his commentary stint on Star Sports Hindi, former CSK spinner Harbhajan Singh shared a heartwarming story about MS Dhoni during IPL 2018. He revealed that when CSK made a comeback to the league after a two-year ban, there was a team dinner where Dhoni became emotional and shed tears of joy.
Sharing the anecdote, Harbhajan said, “There is a story which I want to share. Back in 2018, when CSK made a comeback to this league after a two-year ban, there was a team dinner. I have heard the saying that ‘Men don’t cry,’ but MS Dhoni cried on that night. He became emotional. I think no one knows about this. Right, Imran (Tahir)?”
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In response, Imran Tahir, who was also part of the commentary panel and a member of the 2018 IPL-winning CSK team, confirmed the incident. Tahir emphasized that it was an emotional moment for Dhoni and revealed that the team is like a family to him.
“Yes, of course. Even I was there. It was a very emotional moment for him (MS Dhoni). Looking at him like that, I came to know how close this team is to his heart. He considers the team as his family. It was very emotional for all of us,” said Imran Tahir.
The revelation by Harbhajan Singh provides a glimpse into the deep bond between MS Dhoni and his CSK team, showcasing the emotional connection and camaraderie that makes them a formidable unit on the field. With emotions running high and cricketing skills on display, the CSK vs GT match promises to be a thrilling encounter that will captivate fans across the cricketing world.