Told Ajinkya Rahane to play to his strengths, use his ability to manipulate the field: MS Dhoni

Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s move to introduce Ajinkya Rahane in the match against Mumbai Indians paid dividends as the veteran cricketer showed class and played brilliant cricket to help Chennai Super Kings win their second match of IPL 2023. Chasing a target of 158 runs, the four-time champions lost the wicket of Devon Conway in the very first over of the second innings and were in trouble, but Rahane rose to the occasion and changed the complexion of the game.

In his very first match for the Chennai franchise in the 2023 edition, the cricketer smacked 61 runs off just 27 deliveries and helped the MS Dhoni-led side move an inch closer to victory. From the other end, Ruturaj Gaikwad supported him well as Chennai, in the end, defeated Mumbai by seven wickets at the iconic Wankhede Stadium.

Meanwhile, speaking about Rahane, Dhoni revealed the discussion he had with his former deputy in the national team. The 41-year-old stated that he asked the Maharashtra-born cricketer to play to his strength and not to take any stress as the team management will back him throughout the season.

“Me and Jinks (Rahane) spoke at the start of the season, and I told him to play to his strengths, use your ability to manipulate the fields. I told him to go and enjoy, don't take stress and we'll back you. He batted well and he was not happy with the way he got out; that says it all. I think every game is important, you look at the problems in front of you and take it one step at a time, not look at the league table for now,” Dhoni said at the post-match conference.

With two back-to-back wins under their belt, Chennai Super Kings have moved up to fourth in the IPL Points Table. However, ahead of their match against Rajasthan Royals, there are some concerns as Ben Stokes and Moeen Ali’s fitness is still under the scanner. Even though they are expected to recover in time for the upcoming games, there’s no confirmation at the moment.