IPL 2023: MS Dhoni's Straightforward Verdict On Chennai Super Kings Players After Losing Final-Ball Thriller Against Punjab Kings
CSK captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni felt his team lost grip over the match in middle overs, pointing out that the bowlers should have been more aware of the situation as probably the execution was "bad".
Chennai Super Kings suffered a crushing four-wicket defeat in last-ball thriller against Punjab Kings in their Indian Premier League 2023 match on Sunday (April 30) at Chepauk. CSK won the toss and invited Punjab to bowl first. Devon Conway showcased his batting prowess as the South African hard-hitter hammered 16 boundaries and a six during his 52-ball unbeaten 92, before MS Dhoni (13 not out) finished off things in style by hitting two sixes off the final two deliveries of 20th over to take CSK to 200 for 4. In reply, Punjab Kings crossed the winning line on the last ball, reaching 201 for 6 in 20 overs. Opener Prabhsimran Singh top-scored for Punjab with 42 off 24 balls while Liam Livingstone made 40.
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CSK captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni felt his team lost grip over the match in middle overs, pointing out that the bowlers should have been more aware of the situation as probably the execution was "bad".
"We lost it in a couple of overs in the middle. You need to be aware what you need to bowl and be clear because the batters will be going for it (big hits). (Matheesha) Pathirana bowled well but other than that, we need to see if the plans were wrong or the execution was bad," said Dhoni.
"We should be doing better with the bat. The pitch had turn, there was some turn when it hit the seam. The slower balls gripped. I think, 200 (runs) was par. Also towards the end of our innings, could we have got 10 more?" he questioned.
Punjab Kings captain Shikhar Dhawan said it was a special feeling to attain a win over Chennai in their own den.
"It feels very, very special beating Chennai in Chennai. I am very happy with the way we played. It shows great character of our side to bounce back from that loss, and leaving it behind.
"All credit goes to the team and the support staff. I was very happy at the way the bowlers bowled. At first when I saw, I thought the wicket was dry but it had good bounce. As a captain, I wanted Liam to play more overs. And Jitesh too. The good sign is that all the boys are performing," said winning captain Shikhar, who stitched a crucial 50-run stand at the top with Prabhsimran Singh.
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