'Mahi Bhai Says..', Ruturaj Gaikwad Credits Dhoni For Breezy 58 vs IRE

image-llkgnqx1Ruturaj Gaikwad slammed a fine fifty vs Ireland [Twitter]

A star performer in India's second T20I win over Ireland on Sunday in the ongoing three-match series, top-order batter Ruturaj Gaikwad has opened up on his learnings from former India and current Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni following his solid knock.

Gaikwad scored 58 off 43 with six fours and one solitary six, helping India put up a steep 185 on the board in Dublin, which Ireland fell short by 33 runs, thus losing the series 2-0. The technically sound opener has been the backbone of CSK since 2021 edition, where he finished as leading run-getter. 

As quoted by IndianExpress, the 26-year-old explained how Dhoni urged his players to play in the moment and not think about the future or the noise around. 


'Mahi bhai says to take it one game at a time'- Ruturaj Gaikwad

"What Mahi bhai always says is to take it one game at a time. Just be in the present moment, don’t worry about the future. Everyone creates hype and whatever it is. I am not the kind of person who do really watch social media and hear things about what anyone is saying about me. I think this is one of the traits that I have learned at CSK. I am pretty much clear about giving my best in the field, coming back home, chilling with my friends,” Gaikwad said. 

Talking about his innings, Gaikwad stated that being an opener in T20Is is a luxury which other batters do not have. 

"I think being an opener, I have the luxury to eat up some balls upfront. Face 10-15 balls, and then come back and cover. It is difficult for batters coming in. Usually, there are fewer overs left. Sometimes 8 or 10. They cannot afford to play too many dot balls. Being an opener, it is always great to assess the wicket, play accordingly and figure out what shots you can play and what shots you can’t play," he added.

Gaikwad will next be seen in action on Wednesday in the third and final T20I. Meanwhile, the CSK opener will be leading India in the upcoming Asiad Games in Hangzhou, China starting September 23.