IPL 2022, CSK vs MI | We all know how calming MS Dhoni can be in the end, says Rohit Sharma

Mumbai Indians’ ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is getting worse day by day. They became the first side to lose the first seven matches on the trot in a single IPL edition following their three-wicket defeat against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Thursday (April 21) at Dr DY Patil Sports Academy. Previously, Delhi Daredevils (now known as Delhi Capitals) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) endured the highest losing streak – six – in an IPL season, in 2013 and 2019 respectively.

Rohit Sharma, after the latest defeat, lauded MS Dhoni for his valiant efforts. Dhoni’s 13-ball 28 not out did not allow the MI to defend 16 off the last four balls as the former CSK skipper scored all of them to snatch a victory out of nowhere. The MI skipper praised their bowlers’ spirited show throughout the innings but acknowledged it was not enough against Dhoni.

“It was a great fight from us. We were right in the game. After batting not so well, our bowlers kept us in the game all through. But in the end, we all know how calming MS Dhoni can be and he took them home,” Rohit said at the post-match presentation.

“We got to a very reasonable target where we thought with the ball we could put them under pressure. I thought till the last over, we had them under pressure. But in the end, MS and Pretorius were quite calm and got them home.”

MI lost both Rohit and Ishan Kishan in the opening over, bowled by Mukesh Choudhary. Still, they managed to post 155/7 at the end of the innings, courtesy of Tilak Verma’s 43-ball 51 not out. Rohit admitted that losing wickets early did not allow them to get an advantage against the CSK.

“It's hard to put a finger on that (top-order problems). If you lose three or a couple of wickets upfront, it's always going to be tough. You're always playing that catching (up) game,” he added.

Following the result, the MI remained at the bottom of the points table. The CSK, too, remained at ninth, with two wins and five defeats.