It's the first six overs where match got away from us: MS Dhoni

Chennai Super Kings were at the top of the table coming into the clash against Rajasthan Royals, and a win here would have virtually sealed their spot in the playoffs. However, after losing the toss, Chennai Super Kings conceded 64 runs in the first six overs, and from that moment on, they never really made it back to the game.

MS Dhoni pointed out that Rajasthan Royals’ score of 202 runs, powered by an effervescent 77 from Yashasvi Jaiswal, was above par as far as the pitch conditon is concerned and CSK were always going to play catch up. The CSK skipper added that many edges flew for a boundary, which eventually played a big role in the outcome.

“They scored quite a bit above par,” MS Dhoni said in the post-match presentation. “We gave away too many in the first six overs. At the same time, the wicket was great to bat on. 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 power play with the bat. 

Even though Matheesha Pathirana has been impressive throughout the season, he conceded 48 runs in four overs. With everyone else going for runs, CSK couldn’t muster enough momentum in their favour. However, MS Dhoni threw his weight behind the Sri Lankan pacer, adding the number didn’t suggest how well he bowled against the Royals.

“I felt Pathirana's bowling was good, he didn't bowl badly. I think the scorecard doesn't reflect how well he bowled. Yashasvi batted really well, it was important to go after the bowlers, and it was important to take calculated risks. 

“We had to assess what a good length is, as captain, you tell them, but initially, we gave away a few boundaries, and after that, you're always playing catch up. At the end of the innings, Jurel batted well, but I think it's the first six where it got away from us,” Dhoni added.