In the opening game of the 2023 IPL, MS Dhoni praises Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rajvardhan Hangargekar for their efforts.

Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni blamed the middle order for the team’s five-wicket loss to the Gujarat Titans in the first game of the Indian Premier League 2023 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Ruturaj Gaikwad, who batted first for CSK, played some outstanding cricket, scoring 92 runs off just 50 deliveries to give the team the perfect start. Unfortunately, the middle-order hitters were unable to capitalize, as the team totaled 178 runs after 20 overs.

The captain praised Ruturaj after the game was over and added that the cricketer from Pune was enjoyable to watch. The young cricketer, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, who recorded three wickets during the contest, also won over the 41-year-old.

When asked about his bowling decisions, MS Dhoni added that he had thought that using two left-handed farmers would be the best course of action.

“Dew was inevitable, as we all knew. We could have improved our batsmanship a little bit. It was a pleasure to watch Ruturaj Gaikwad play since he was superb and had excellent ball timing. It’s enjoyable to see him choose his alternatives. In the post-game presentation, Dhoni observed, “I think it’s critical for the young players to come up.

“Raj (Hangargekar) has pace, and I believe he will improve over time. Believe the bowlers will improve; you need to concentrate on a no-ball because it is something you can control. I went forward with two left-armers since I thought they would be a better alternative. I had Shivam (Dube) as an option, but I was content with the bowlers as a whole,” he continued.

In the first game of the season, Rashid and Gill excel for Gujarat.

For the Hardik Pandya-led team, Shubman Gill and Rashid Khan shone in the first game as they defeated the visiting team by five wickets. Rashid Khan, the Afghani spin master, bowled superbly to hold CSK in check as Gill, who is in excellent form right now, hammered 63 off 36 deliveries. The 24-year-old batsman contributed significantly, taking two wickets and conceding 26 runs in his four overs. He also had an impact with the ball, scoring 10* from three deliveries. Rashid was named Player of the Match for his outstanding effort.

Ruturaj Gaikwad, a daring batsman from Maharashtra, struck a towering 92 runs in just 50 deliveries to help Chennai record a total of 178 runs earlier. He hit nine sixes and four fours in his spectacular inning.

On April 3, Chennai will play Lucknow Super Giants at their fortress at the MA Chidambaram stadium. On the other hand, Gujarat and Delhi Capitals will square off on April 4 at the Arun Jaitley stadium in Delhi.