IPL 2021 Playoffs, DC vs CSK (Qualifier 1): MS Dhoni credits Chennai's character after sealing final berth

It was a phenomenal performance by Chennai Super Kings to outplay Delhi Capitals in Qualifier 1 of the IPL 2021 playoffs and seal its place in the final. Meanwhile, MS Dhoni has praised the character of the side.

Former champion Chennai Super Kings (CSK) presented a bright gameplay display, especially with the bat, as it beat Delhi Capitals (DC) by four wickets in Qualifier 1 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 playoffs at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. Consequently, CSK is into its 11th IPL final.

Former champion Chennai Super Kings (CSK) presented a bright gameplay display, especially with the bat, as it beat Delhi Capitals (DC) by four wickets in Qualifier 1 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 playoffs at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. Consequently, CSK is into its 11th IPL final.

"It's the full team (that deserves the credit) because it was tough. Last year was the first time where we didn't qualify, so the emotions were quite high. What was important was whatever game was left; we wanted to make sure that we made the most use of it," he said after the match on Sunday.

"Forget what has happened in the tournament, but those four games or three games we wanted to make the most of it and I felt a lot of batters made the most of that and that's the reason why we have come back strongly and also I think credit goes to the support staff and each and every individual because without their character you can't really come back like this," he added.

He also credited Gaikwad for showing a solid persona this season as he stays in contention for the Orange Cap (highest run-scorer for the season. In the meantime, Dhoni revealed how he kept inspiring and motivating the 24-year-old Maharashtrian.

"Whenever we have a chat, it's very plain and simple. I ask what is going on, what you were thinking because it is very important to understand how well he has improved over the period. And, also his gameplan, as to, he's somebody who's willing to bat 20 overs," Dhoni shared.

"One of the games I spoke to him about, if you're an opener and if you get off to a good start, there's nothing that says you can only bat ten overs or 12 overs. Why can't you bat 18, 19 or 20 overs? Right after that, he did that. He batted 20 overs, which means that he is very eager to learn, and I feel he is somebody who plays authentic shots, and I think he has done really well for himself, and I think he is a really good talent," he concluded.