MS Dhoni returned to competitive cricket after 436 days, but he still showed that whenever he steps out on the field he can create a new world record. Armed with a new look and focus after announcing his retirement from international cricket on August 15, MS Dhoni led Chennai Super Kings admirably and during the match against Mumbai Indians, he created a new world record. Chennai Super Kings were already making a fightback in the death overs as they raised their fielding to yet another level, led by Faf du Plessis.
Dhoni got into the action when he took a sharp diving catch to his right to get rid of Krunal Pandya for 3. However, he was once again in the thick of the action as he grabbed the edge of Kieron Pollard to give Lungi Ngidi his second wicket. That catch, though, put MS Dhoni in an elite list as he became the first wicketkeeper in history to effect 250 dismissals in Twenty20 cricket. Pakistan’s Kamran Akmal is in second spot with 238 dismissals while India’s Dinesh Karthik is third with 214 dismissals in the format. Only four wicketkeepers have effected over 200 dismissals in Twenty20 cricket, with Kumar Sangakkara being the fourth.
Chennai Super Kings hold their nerve
Chennai Super Kings’ solid bowling effort allowed them to restrict Mumbai Indians to 162/9. In response, they lost Shane Watson and Murali Vijay cheaply but Ambati Rayudu and Faf du Plessis’ magnificent fifties, aided by a wonderful cameo from Sam Curran, helped Chennai Super Kings snap their five-game losing streak against Mumbai Indians.
Speaking after the match, Dhoni said there were still some areas to improve. “We may practice enough but when you go on the field you need to assess the conditions and give it your best. It took us time for the bowlers to find the right length on this pitch. Plenty of positives but still plenty of areas for us to improve,” Dhoni said.
