Indian batter Shivam Dube attributes his knack for finishing tight matches to the influence of MS Dhoni, his celebrated Chennai Super Kings (CSK) teammate and one of cricket's greatest finishers. In the recent match against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Dube's pivotal 34-run knock and his crucial 66-run partnership with Ravindra Jadeja, who remained 25 not out, propelled the defending champions CSK to a six-wicket triumph.
Expressing his exhilaration, Dube highlighted the joy and learning derived from Dhoni, aiming to replicate his mentor's finesse in game-finishing. "It was amazing. Finishing the game for Chennai is always something that amazes me. That's what I have learnt from Mahi bhai, and I try to do it every game. It feels very good when you finish the game like this, especially during the first game of the season. So, it always feels special," Dube shared with IPLT20.com.
The match saw CSK chasing a target of 174, with debutant Rachin Ravindra scoring 37 runs, the highest for his team. Ravindra praised captain Ruturaj Gaikwad for his composed approach to the chase. "It was nice to have a partnership with Rutu. Obviously, he's done this for a long period for Chennai," Ravindra remarked, also acknowledging the strategic partnership with Ajinkya Rahane amidst the vibrant atmosphere at the Chepauk stadium.
Ravindra shared his awe at the Chepauk crowd's enthusiasm, describing it as one of the loudest he's ever encountered and expressing hope for more victories to energize the home fans further.
With this win under their belt, CSK is set to face the previous season's runner-up, Gujarat Titans, in their upcoming match.
Watch: Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni hug it out after RCB fail at Chepauk yet again
(With PTI inputs)