'Right now, he's a rival' - Rishabh Pant on MS Dhoni ahead of CSK-DC clash

Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals have locked horns with each other for the Match 50 of the Indian Premier League. The clash between the table toppers was highly anticipated. DC won the toss and elected to bowl first at the Dubai International Stadium.

Rishabh Pant has proved his prowess across formats and has emerged as one of the most impactful players for team India. Along with his fearless approach to batting, his keeping skills have also fetched him praises from all over. The keeper-batter has often stated that MS Dhoni has been his mentor and that he has learned a lot under him.

When asked about facing Dhoni, Pant asserted that he has learned a lot from him but right now the CSK skipper is his rival. He also added that his entire focus is on the game.

“We will bowl first. The wicket might do a bit early, so better bowling first. We just need to focus on the basics, continue doing what we have been doing, want to finish in the top two. Ripal Patel is making his debut, Smith goes out. He’s a lower middle-order batsman who can bowl a few overs. Always great learning from him (MS Dhoni), but right now he’s a rival, so the focus is on the game,” said Rishabh Pant during the toss.

Finishing in the top-two is important: MS Dhoni

Both Delhi and Chennai have had an impressive run in this edition of the IPL. After having a dismaying IPL 2020, CSK bounced back stronger this year and has proved why are they considered as one of the best teams in this league. While giving updates on the changes in the side, Dhoni asserted that staying at the top position is important to get an extra chance in the tournament ahead.

“We were looking to bat first, but we were not 100% sure, the wicket seems to be tacky. We have got a few changes – Sam is out, Bravo is back, Chahar replaces Asif and Robin Uthappa replaces Suresh Raina, who has a back issue. We are trying to rest players who have some niggles, top-two is important, if you have a bad day in the qualifiers, you have another chance to make a comeback,” said CSK captain MS Dhoni at the toss.