IPL 2021: MS Dhoni throws light on what went wrong for CSK in 2020

The unbeaten run of the Chennai Super Kings in the 14^th edition of the Indian Premier League continues as the team defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad by 7 wickets on Wednesday (28^th April 2021) in Delhi to record their fifth consecutive victory in the season.

CSK’s journey in 2021 started with a defeat against Delhi Capitals, but since then, five in a row has put them at the top of the table with a brilliant net run rate.

Having led the side back to what it is known for after a forgettable season in 2020’s UAE edition when the Super Kings failed to secure a top-four spot for the first time in the history of the league, their skipper MS Dhoni shared what went wrong for the franchise last year.

There were a lot of factors, states MS Dhoni on CSK’s poor run in 2021

The earlier you settle (in the tournament), the better. The other factor was 5-6 months we were out of cricket. Nothing was allowed. It’s not that you could go on your own and practice. That also makes it difficult. Change of quarantine (this year made it better). It was slightly longer (last year). There were a lot of factors,” he said.

Overall if I have to sum it up, the players have taken more responsibility this year. You will be facing adverse things, but ultimately it boils down to how each individual rises to the occasion and gives the extra 10% for the team.”

On being asked about using only 13 players in the season so far, he said: “Last 8-10 years, we’ve not changed a lot of players, so the players know our approach. Also, we appreciate the players not playing a lot. The only way you can put it forward is by having those nice interactions. Just try to have a frame of mind where if you get the opportunity, you’ll be ready.”

“Keeping the dressing room atmosphere healthy is important. It’s not an easy thing. When you’re at the top level, you want to play. Have to give extra credit to the players who’ve not played so far,” added MS Dhoni.

Speaking about the pitch and conditions in Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium, where the two teams played the first game of the season in this leg, Dhoni said: “The batting was superb. But that doesn’t mean the bowling was not good. It was a surprisingly good wicket. Whenever we come to Delhi, we never expect a wicket like this. It was coming on nicely; there was nothing for the spinners as well. The good thing was there was no dew. Earlier, we felt 170 was just below par if there’s no dew. We had a brilliant opening partnership.”

CSK will lock horns with the defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) at the same venue in Delhi on Saturday.