MS Dhoni rues giving away too many runs to Rajasthan Royals in powerplay | Cricket News – Times of India

Rajasthan Royals reclaimed the top spot in the IPL 2023 points table with their win over Chennai Super Kings in Jaipur on Thursday, and visiting skipper MS Dhoni picked giving away too many runs in the powerplay as the primary reason for his side’s defeat.
“They scored quite a bit above par. We gave away too many in the first six. At the same time, wicket was great to bat on,” Dhoni said after CSK’s 32-run defeat.
Opting to bat, RR made a terrific start with Yashasvi Jaiswal (77 off 43) and Jos Buttler (27 off 21) putting up an 86-run opening stand in just 8.2 overs, including 64 in the first six overs.

“We had to assess what a good length is, as captain you tell them (bowlers); but initially we gave away a few boundaries and after that you’re always playing catch-up,” Dhoni added.
“Bowlers bowled well in the middle overs but a lot of edges went for boundaries, at least 5-6 went for them, and that had made an impact. They had par-plus and we couldn’t get a good start in the powerplay with the bat.”
Dhoni praised Jaiswal and Dhruv Jurel, who made 15-ball 34 towards the end, for their efforts.
“Yashasvi batted really well, was important to go after the bowlers and it was important to take calculated risks. In the end of the innings, Jurel batted well but I think it’s the first six where it got away from us,” he said.

Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana went for runs on Thursday, giving away 48 off his four overs but Dhoni defended him.
“I felt Pathirana’s bowling was good; he didn’t bowl badly. I think the scorecard doesn’t reflect how well he bowled.”
Dhoni, who probably is playing his last IPL, also remembered his fond memories of the venue.
“This is a very special venue, my first ODI hundred in Vizag gave me 10 games, but the 183 I made here gave me another one year. It was great to be back here,” he said.

Winning skipper Sanju Samson was full of praise for Jaiswal, Jurel and Devdutt Padikkal’s aggressive batting.
“This is a win the team and dugout really wanted. The way youngsters Jaiswal, Devdutt, Jurel batted was outstanding. The mindset of attack, attack and attack is something we will keep promoting in the dressing room.
“Credit goes to the team management and support staff (for working with players like Jaiswal) who work very hard at the academy. Lot of work has gone behind his success. Proud of the way he’s playing,” he said.
CSK’s next game will be at home in Chennai against Punjab Kings on Sunday, April 30, while Rajasthan visit Mumbai Indians on the same day.

(With agency inputs)