Chennai Super Kings (CSK) bowling coach Dwayne Bravo wrote a long note on social media in which he shared how thankful he was for continuing to be part of the franchise despite hanging up his playing boots. In a match that was supposed to be played on Sunday (May 28) but ended in wee hours of Tuesday (May 30), the Men in Yellow beat the Gujarat Titans (GT) by 5 wickets in a last-ball finish at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad to become the champions for the fifth time. Following the win, several members of the side have dedicated the victory to the team's talismanic leader MS Dhoni who has led them to each of their five wins.
And now in his social media post, Bravo has also revealed a Dhoni story and revealed how it was a call from the legendary captain that convinced him to stay the team after he had announced retirement as a player.
"Where do I begin! A year ago when I decided to announce my retirement from IPL cricket it was a sad moment but at the same time I was grateful for a successful IPL career. As fate would have it I received a phone call from @chennaiipl captain @mahi7781 and head coach Stephen Fleming @stephen_fleming_ who invited me to be a part of the coaching staff," he wrote.
"I had no doubt in my mind that this was the direction I wanted to take my new cricketing career. I’ve always had the vision in my mind of one day sharing what I can only describe as my God given talents as a cricketer to what it is right now - a coach for one of the best teams in IPL history," he added.
"To our fans who supported us throughout the entire season you all are the real champions. Everywhere we go and at every game there was always a sea of yellow; thank you always for your continued support and love. To my team; a big congratulations on this great victory and what I consider one the most memorable seasons in IPL cricket. To the coaching staff thank you for embracing me, I cannot say thank you enough. As one of the youngest members of the coaching staff it has been a huge learning process for me but I’m enjoying every second of it," he wrote.
"Special mention must be given to bowling coach Eric @trilogygroupza; it truly felt like a partnership working and learning alongside him. To the young bowling team @matheesha.pathirana_99 @ravindra.jadeja @deepak_chahar9 @maheesh_theekshana @rajvardhan__hangargekar @akkionfire @dwainep_29 big congratulations to each and every one of you, this victory is a result of your dedication and hard work," he further said.
"This experience as a first time coach has only reinforced what I truly believe is my God calling and purpose in life; to use my gift to inspire others and positively impact and enrich other people lives and I promise that’s what I’m going to do. As I enjoy this moment; I remain grateful, I remain humbled by all these opportunities and blessings. This is the beginning #sirchampion #championcoach #firstipltitleascoach #iplchampions2023," he said.