'Wins and losses are part and parcel in leagues like IPL': MS Dhoni after CSK's third consecutive loss

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) experienced their third consecutive loss in the IPL 2021. The dip in form comes ahead of the playoffs which has left many CSK fans concerned. However, CSK skipper MS Dhoni is not too perturbed by the losses and said wins and losses are part and parcel in tournaments such as IPL, adding the team needs to tune up a bit ahead of the playoffs.

“You have to cope (when it comes to mental or skill aspect) up with that. We had played very good cricket to reach the playoff stages. We had a few bad games 2 out of 3 and one we felt like we could have a comeback and that’s part and parcel in leagues like these, you have to be at your best. Motivation is not a factor, the guys are highly motivated and maybe we need to tune up slightly as to what needs to be done,” said MSD in the post-match conference.

CSK batters have looked off colour in the last few games and same was the case today, against Punjab Kings (PBKS). Barring Faf du Plessis, who scored 76, none of the batters could resist the PBKS bowling as CSK could only manage 134-6 in their 20 overs. The team had defended low scores before and given the vulnerabilities in PBKS middle order, CSK had a definite chance.

However, PBKS skipper KL Rahul didn’t give CSK a sniff and single-handedly took the team to a win in 13 overs. The dominating win has kept PBKS’ hopes alive in the tournament. PBKS now have a better run rate than MI thus if MI and KKR lose their final games by big margins, PBKS will have an outside chance to qualify. Meanwhile, CSK would hope that RCB loses their last game against DC as it will ensure a top-two finish for the MS Dhoni-led side.