MS Dhoni’s fans were delighted as the former Chennai Super Kings captain turned back the clock with an explosive innings on Friday against the Lucknow Super Giants. With CSK six wickets down, Dhoni strode to the crease late in the innings. The World Cup-winning captain made an immediate impact, smashing two sixes and three fours in a quickfire 28 not out off just 9 balls. His explosive cameo was instrumental in powering CSK to 176/6 from their 20 overs. The Lucknow crowd were bowled over by Dhoni’s hitting.

Though the match took place in Lucknow, CSK and especially Dhoni received immense support. LSG star opener Quinton de Kock’s wife Sasha was in the stands when the crowd at Ekana Stadium erupted to welcome MS Dhoni.

Sasha posted a photo on showing the dangerous noise level.

Bowlers get nervous when MS walks in – KL Rahul

LSG had kept CSK’s run rate in check until Moeen Ali (30 off 20 balls) and MS Dhoni (28 off 9) unleashed a barrage of big hits to propel CSK to a competitive total of 176 for six.

“At the halfway point, 160 would have was sufficient for us. I sensed that the wicket was slow, with just enough grip. 160–165 would’ve been achievable,” LSG skipper KL Rahul said.

“However, the bowlers get nervous when MSD enters. The crowd was lively and the bowlers were under pressure. MS Dhoni has done this before,” he added.

Lucknow Super Giants reached 180 for 2 in 19 overs as Rahul (82) and De Kock (54) batted with authority during their 134-run partnership, the highest for any wicket at the Ekana Stadium while chasing 177.

“I felt confident that if we batted well, we could successfully chase the target. I have been carefully evaluating the match situation, and my plan worked out. Chennai’s spinners tried to slow down our scoring, but we were determined to get off to a strong start. We took the attack to them, and fortunately it paid off. As our partnership developed, we gained confidence to take some extra risks. I’m very pleased that our approach was successful,” he concluded.

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