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India veteran Ajinkya Rahane made a terrific debut for Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2023 on April 8 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Rahane’s vintage performance in the clash against MI put Rohit Sharma-led squad to a defeat, and the Chennai boys marked their second victory by a margin of seven wickets. In the absence of match winners like Moeen Ali and Ben Stokes, Rahane smashed the fastest half-century of the season in just 19 deliveries and rode his team to victory in the Saturday's super clash.
Also Read: MI vs CSK 2023 Live Score | IPL 2023 Live Score | IPL 2023 Points Table
While speaking in the post-match events, the senior batter said he was just trying to play good cricket and not slog it over. He went on to say that a good domestic cricket season helped him gain confidence and play well in his first match for the Dhoni-led squad. He said, "Really enjoyed it. I just got to know before the toss that I am playing. Unfortunately, Moeen was unwell. I had a good domestic season and was batting well in the nets. I was just trying to play good cricketing shots, and not slog it over.”
“It is all about maintaining your shape. You want to prepare mentally well, IPL is a very long tournament, and it is all about staying positive and knowing your game,” he added.
Talking of the advisory he received from the skipper and coach before the match, he said, "Mahi bhai and Flem (Stephen Fleming) have given the freedom to other players. I was just told to focus on my strengths and focus on preparation. I love playing at the Wankhede, I know the ground well. Have not played a Test here, yet."
CSK skipper Dhoni also praised Rahane’s innings at the post-match presentation, and said, " We talked early on and he was like, ‘What are you looking for in me?’, and I told him what I had in mind. He is not someone who will hit sixes continuously but he is technically very strong. I am very happy with the way he batted."
After registering their second win of the season, the Dhoni-brigade will now go head-to-head with Rajasthan Royals on April 10, Monday. Whereas Rohit Sharma’s team, who haven’t been able to score any point yet will clash against Delhi Capitals on April 11, Tuesday.
