Dhoni hints at missing upcoming IPL 2019 matches: Chennai Super Kings captain opened up on his back injury and CSK’s victory.
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Chennai Super Kings captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni sounded elated after leading his team to eighth IPL 2019 victory. With 16 points in 11 matches, Super Kings have qualified for the playoffs for yet another time in the Indian Premier League.
Chennai’s highlight tonight was opening batsman Shane Watson coming back into form with his 17th IPL half-century. Chasing a 176-run target, CSK’s innings was given an apt foundation by Watson scoring 96 (53) with the help of nine fours and six sixes.
Speaking during the post-match presentation ceremony, Dhoni was vocal about backing Watson despite his poor form in the tournament before this match. “I think you can give individuals some games and the team gives them the rest. Watson has been a match-winner for us. He has been batting well in the nets.
“Whatever small innings he played so far, he was middling them well although he did struggle a bit. This is the time when you need to back them. The management’s thinking was to give him as many games as possible. And the team winning also means that a player gets more games than he would actually get,” Dhoni was quoted as saying.
Dhoni eulogizes about bowling division
Unlike some other teams, Super Kings thrive on contribution from different players in different matches. With individual players stepping up in various situations, it becomes more of a team effort than the team winning because of a couple of players’ utter domination.
Being asked about the same, Dhoni expressed relief and also praised his bowlers for standing tall on the expectations. “It’s good to see different individuals step up every game. Nice to see our bowling department do surprisingly well but would like our batting unit also get into the mode that’s necessary for the playoffs,” Dhoni said.
Leading CSK for the 10th year, Dhoni has made sure the team reached the playoffs every single time. In what is an unmatched record, Dhoni answered funnily on being asked about what discussions go behind the scenes at Chennai Super Kings.
“If I tell everyone what it is, then they won’t buy me at the auctions. It’s a trade secret. The crowd support and franchise’s support are key of course. Huge credit has to also go to the support staff who play a huge role in keeping the team atmosphere good for the team and other individuals. Other than this, I can’t reveal anything till I retire,” Dhoni added.
Dhoni hints at missing upcoming IPL 2019 matches
Dhoni had missed the last match vs Hyderabad due to a back injury. While he confirmed that his back if better now, he gave signs of missing one of the upcoming matches (if the need arises) in a bid to give his back rest before the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019.
“It’s [back] alright, not showing signs of getting worse. With the World Cup coming, I need to be careful as that comes first,” Dhoni concluded.
