'Players need to get attentive on the field' - MS Dhoni to CSK players ahead of clash against MI

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni urged his teammates to be attentive on the field after winning the toss against Mumbai Indians (MI). CSK and MI square off in the 49th match of the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday, May 6.

Dhoni invited the visitors to bat first after winning the toss. The CSK captain stated that rain is expected and that is why he chose to field first. He also remarked that his team has performed excellently so far this season, despite a few setbacks here and there.

"We will bowl first. A bit of rain is scheduled. That's the reason and good wicket and we want MI to set it up. On and off we have done well and the players need to get attentive on the field," Dhoni said after winning the toss in Chennai as quoted by India Today.

The 41-year-old also stated that his team became stronger after every contest. He also stated that they are currently in the second half of the season and must finish games professionally.

"We have improved from the first game and we have slipped away here and there. It happens. Now, we want to be professional and get the job done and win the key moments. We are playing with the same squad," he added.

CSK restrict MI to 34/3 in the powerplay

Speaking about the match, MI started with a new opening duo, with all-rounder Cameron Green opening the innings alongside keeper-batter Ishan Kishan. However, MI's strategy appeared to backfire as Tushar Deshpande provided an early breakthrough for CSK by dismissing the Australian in the very second over.

Meanwhile, Deepak Chahar who has missed most of CSK's matches this season, struck twice in the third over. He easily got rid of Ishan Kishan and MI skipper Rohit Sharma. Notably, the visitors only managed to score 34 runs after the powerplay, losing three wickets.