MS Dhoni played an unbeaten knock of 28 runs which helped CSK to score 176 runs in 20 overs.

New Delhi: After registering the eight-wicket victory against defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) captain KL Rahul opened up on MS Dhoni’s impact on Lucknow fans. He said that playing in home ground felt like they are playing at “mini Chennai” because of the popularity of the former CSK skipper who scored 28* runs in nine balls to finish the innings for his team.

He revealed that when Dhoni walked in to bat the bowlers got pressurized because of his in intimidation on opposition bowlers. He also admitted that LSG’s young bowlers were also under pressure when the crowd went berserk during ‘Thala’s entry.

“Feels good at the end of the day. When you win, most decisions feel right. We were committed to our plans. Really happy with that. Depends on the wicket, I deploy my bowlers. The bowlers executed really well. The team is sticking to the plans. Half way stage, I would have been happy with 160. The wicket was slow and a bit of grip. MSD walked in and the pressure got to the bowlers. He has had the intimidation on opposition bowlers. Our young bowlers were put under pressure with the crowd going berserk as well. 15-20 runs extra they got. I have beeb trying to assess the situation.”

“It came off today (his attacking knock). I knew the CSK spinners will put the pressure on. I picked my bowlers and it came off. Quinton batted well as well. Made life easy for both.”

LSG registered their fourth win  of the ongoing season of IPL and are currently on fifth in the points table. They will now face Rajasthan Royals on April 27 at Ekana Stadium in Lucknow.