Yuzvendra Chahal, the leg-spinner representing the Rajasthan Royals (RR), opened up about his emotions surrounding the victory of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) led by MS Dhoni in the IPL 2023. Chahal, hailing from Haryana, revealed that witnessing CSK lift the trophy was an immensely emotional moment for him.
Despite being a part of the rival team, Chahal expressed that he would have still been delighted if CSK had emerged victorious against RR in the final match. The magnitude of Dhoni’s success as a captain was evident, as CSK clinched their fifth championship title. The match’s thrilling climax saw all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja playing a pivotal role, scoring the required 10 runs off the last two balls.
In an interview with News 18, Chahal shared his sentiments, describing the moment as filled with emotions. He emphasized that it wasn’t just him, but the entire nation that desired MS Dhoni’s victory. Witnessing Dhoni’s triumph was a sight to behold for Chahal, who reveres Dhoni as a legendary player. Even if CSK had defeated Chahal’s team in the final, he would have still celebrated Dhoni’s success wholeheartedly.
When asked to compare the best captains among Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Sanju Samson, the 32-year-old cricketer opined that all four captains are quite similar in his view. Candidly speaking, Chahal stated that he finds it difficult to distinguish between the captains as they all provide him with the freedom to bowl according to his preferences. He acknowledged the trust they place in him and the alternative strategies available in case his initial tactics fail. With such unwavering support from the captains, Chahal can focus on his game without any concerns.
Chahal has achieved remarkable success during his two seasons with the Rajasthan Royals, taking 48 wickets in a total of 31 matches in 2022 and 2023. His exceptional performances earned him the prestigious Purple Cap award in the 2022 edition of the tournament.
Chahal’s reflection on CSK’s IPL triumph not only showcases his emotional connection to the game but also highlights the enduring legacy of MS Dhoni as a captain. Dhoni’s achievements have resonated not just with his own team but also with rival players who appreciate his impact on Indian cricket.
