‘I was trying to protect myself in the last stage of the CPL’ – Dwayne Bravo on his preparations heading into IPL 2021

Chennai Super Kings’ all-rounder Dwayne Bravo began his preparations for the second leg of the 2021 IPL when the 2021 edition of the CPL was taking place. During the CPL, the 37-year-old sustained an injury due to which he had to sit out for two games. After he made his comeback, he led the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots to their maiden title in the T20 championship.

However, following his return, Bravo didn’t bowl a single over, although he picked up eight wickets earlier. As a reason for not bowling, the 37-year-old said that he was trying to protect himself before the IPL. Bravo made the revelations after the Chennai Super Kings beat the Mumbai Indians by 20 runs on Sunday, September 19 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

In the game, Bravo picked up three wickets, including that of Ishan Kishan and gave away only 25 runs in his quota of four overs. Bravo also emphasized bowling his full quota of overs in the upcoming games.

“To start our campaign with a win is a very good feeling. I’m feeling good, was trying to protect myself in the last stage of the CPL. Had one bowling session in the nets here and I felt good. Look forward to getting through four overs in the other games too,” Bravo was quoted as saying after the match.

It’s about keeping my shape, adjusting, says Dwayne Bravo

Apart from making an impact with the ball, Bravo was also effective with the bat. Batting at No.8, he smashed three sixes on his way to an eight-ball 23. His knock propelled CSK past the 150-run mark and turned out to be pivotal in the context of the game.

“Batting is very important, now I bat lower down the order with a batting line-up like CSK, but it’s about trying to win key moments, capitalise on the 12 balls I get. Or if there’s 11 overs left, adjust and adapt. It’s about keeping my shape, adjusting.

“In five balls if you can make 20, it can make a difference like today. I have the ability to bat, can only do so much when there are few opportunities,” he added.