Rachin Ravindra had his first taste of MS Dhoni mania at Chepauk, experiencing the electrifying atmosphere as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) faced Mumbai Indians in their IPL 2025 opener. With CSK needing just four runs to win, the crowd eagerly anticipated a Dhoni six to seal the match. Instead, it was Ravindra who launched the ball into the stands, finishing unbeaten on 65 off 45 balls.
“It’s difficult to soak it in when you’re in the moment because you’re just focused on winning the game,” Ravindra said after CSK’s four-wicket victory. “It’s hard to ignore, though. You hear Dhoni walk in, and the whistles, the noise—it’s special to share the crease with him for the first time. He’s a legend, and people love him here.”
An Honour to Open for CSK
With Devon Conway returning from injury, there were questions about CSK’s opening combination. However, head coach Stephen Fleming gave Ravindra the nod, and the move paid off brilliantly. CSK retained Ravindra at the IPL 2025 auction, using the Right-to-Match (RTM) card to bring him back.
“It’s always an honour to open for CSK, knowing the history of it. You look at the heroes like Michael Hussey, Shane Watson, Brendon McCullum, Faf du Plessis, Matthew Hayden, Conway, and Ruturaj Gaikwad. I’m just grateful to be in this role,” Ravindra said.
Match-Winning Partnership with Gaikwad
Ravindra’s 67-run stand with Gaikwad set the platform for CSK’s chase of 156. Even after a middle-order collapse, he held his nerve, smashing two sixes off Vignesh Puthur in the 18th over to steer CSK home.
“Last season didn’t end how I wanted, but I found some rhythm towards the end, especially against Royal Challengers Bangalore. T20 is a fickle game, but hopefully, I can continue playing good cricket shots and help CSK win more matches,” Ravindra added.
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