Former Indian cricketer speaks out after CSK's loss

Chennai Super Kings lost to Lucknow Super Giants in Mumbai by six wickets in the 2022 Indian Premier League. The Super Giants won their first-ever tournament match since they were introduced ahead of the new season in addition to opening their account for the new season. Jadeja, Chennai’s newly-appointed captain, has yet to win this edition.

Chennai scored 210/7 in 20 overs during the game against Lucknow. With just three balls to spare, the LSG won by six wickets off the quickfire 55* from Evin Lewis. Shivam Dube’s dismissal in the 19th over proved costly for the team, with the all-rounder conceding 25 runs in the over. ”No doubt about it, it’s wrong. I love Dhoni’s temperament, which is one of the reasons I admire him. You would probably understand if this was the last match of the group when qualification was at stake if you wanted to take over because it is an important phase. However, if it is only the second match of the season, it would seem ridiculous,” Jadeja explained during a recent press conference.

”Dhoni is the first captain like him, and there will never be another like him. Although it was his decision to step down, you have actually dragged him (Jadeja) backward instead of pushing him forward. This has affected his self-esteem. He wasn’t involved at all in the game,” Jadeja added.

”The decisions were not my fault. I disagree with the way he (Dhoni) took over. At a team meeting, he spoke. CSK fans would urge Dhoni to take over again as captain since he understands the game better. Yet, he made a mistake today. Jadeja wouldn’t know if he was beginning to feel confident about his captaincy,” he concluded.