On Monday, the spotlight was on MS Dhoni as the captain of CSK skillfully utilized his extensive experience to secure a victory against LSG in Lucknow. This marked his first win since resuming his role as CSK captain, where he remained not out and established a crucial partnership with Shivam Dube during the chase.

Dhoni's return to the captaincy was initially disappointing, as CSK faced a heavy defeat against KKR in their last match. However, he ensured that history did not repeat itself, guiding CSK to a well-deserved win.

MS Dhoni - The difference maker for CSK

Chasing a target of 167 runs, CSK successfully reached 168/5 in 19.3 overs, with Dube sealing the victory with a decisive four. Dhoni entered the game following the dismissal of Vijay Shankar on the last ball of the 15th over, with CSK's score at 111/5. During the 16th over, Avesh Khan was in control against Dube, who initially adopted a cautious strategy. However, Dhoni quickly shifted the momentum by striking Avesh for a four through extra cover on the fifth delivery, followed by another four on the subsequent ball, this time past the wicketkeeper.

Inspired by his 43-year-old captain's impressive shots and aggressive intent, Dube also began to assert himself. At the time Dhoni came to bat, Dube had scored 17 runs off 20 balls. In the 17th over, Dube launched a counter-attack, hitting Shardul Thakur for a four and then a six to conclude the over.

The 18th over proved challenging, with CSK managing only seven runs against Avesh, including a fortunate four for Dhoni. As the 19th over unfolded, with CSK needing 24 runs, Dube continued his aggressive play, hitting Shardul for both a four and a six. This over also featured a no-ball and a dropped catch by Bishnoi, allowing the ball to slip through his hands. Dhoni capped off the over with a four, and the duo celebrated their fifty partnership in style.

Entering the final over needing just five runs, Dhoni and Dube approached it with caution, securing consecutive singles. On the third ball, with Dube at the crease, Avesh delivered a full ball outside off, which fell short of a yorker. Dube capitalized on this opportunity, driving it to the boundary for a match-winning four.

In a post-match interview, Dube reflected on his successful partnership with Dhoni, noting their unbeaten status. He credited Dhoni for taking charge, stating, “I think when MS came and started smashing the bowlers, it made it easy for me.” He further explained, “My plan was straightforward: not to hit the ball too hard and to avoid losing my wicket.”

Dube remained unbeaten at 43* off 37 balls, also smacking three fours and two sixes, justifying Dhoni’s decision to use him as an Impact Player. Meanwhile, Dhoni was unbeaten at 26* off 11 deliveries, and also slammed four fours and a six. Dhoni also ended his day with a brilliant 236.36 strike rate.

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