'Don't feel the pressure' - Sameer Rizvi reveals key MS Dhoni advice after his cameo against GT

Sameer Rizvi, who was one of Chennai Super Kings' biggest buys in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) auction, revealed the advice he got from the legend MS Dhoni. Making his IPL debut in a high-stakes encounter against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Chepauk, Rizvi was unsuccessful in creating an immediate impact. However, he showcased his aptitude in the subsequent clash against Gujarat Titans (GT).
 
Coming in to bat at No. 6, he hit GT's premier spinner Rashid Khan for a maximum off his first delivery, following it up with another six in the same over. He left an impression despite ending his innings at 14 which he accumulated from just six deliveries. Post CSK's 63-run win over GT, the youngster revealed insights from Dhoni, highlighting the wicketkeeper's advice to adhere to his natural game and remain composed.

"Dhoni bhai told me just one thing. How you have been playing till now, that's the game. You just need to play like that. There's nothing different. The skill is the same and the mindset maybe a little different. So whenever you're playing, don't feel the pressure. Just play according to the situation. Then you won't feel the pressure. Then you won't be nervous. Obviously, it's your first game, so you would be nervous. But just play how you have been playing till now," said Rizvi in a video shared by IPL's official X handle.

Also read: 'I mean, that's just crazy' - Michael Hussey heaps praise on Sameer Rizvi after his first-ball six against Rashid Khan

Watch the video:

It was a dream of mine to meet MS Dhoni: Rizvi

Sameer Rizvi went on to express his joy at being picked by CSK, adding it was a dream to get an opportunity to meet MS Dhoni. The Meerut-born cricketer admitted that he never thought he would play alongside Dhoni, underscoring his aspiration to learn as much as possible during his stint with him and CSK.

Also read: CSK vs GT: MS Dhoni goes horizontal in air to dismiss Vijay Shankar caught behind

"When I was picked by CSK during the IPL auction I was very happy. It was a dream of mine to meet MS Dhoni. Playing with him was something I hadn't thought of, but meeting him was a dream. Now that dream has been fulfilled and I'm getting to play alongside him. We have had a lot of net sessions together, and I have a learned lot from him. I have learned from the coaching staff as well. So That's my aim to learn as much as possible from this team," he added.