Ravindra Jadeja was the star of Chennai Super Kings (CSK)’s comprehensive win over Kolkata Knight Riders at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, on Monday.
His three-wicket haul laid the foundation for CSK’s win. Jadeja ended his return to bowling and also earned the title of ‘Cricket Thalapathy,’ which he deserved.
Ravindra Jadeja topped the CSK bowling charts with figures of three for 18, which helped the hosts limit KKR’s score to a sub-par 137-9 and then win the match by seven wickets after completing the chase in just 17.4 overs.
Jadeja won the award for ‘Player Of The Match’. At the post-match ceremony, he was asked whether he had been given the same title as MS Dhoni, affectionately known as ‘Thala.’ Suresh Raina was also called the Chinna Thala.
The presenter at the Chepauk post-match presentation asked Jadeja whether the CSK franchise had given him a name.
Just as MS Dhoni was called “Thala” and former Chennai batter Suresh Raina was called “Chinna Thala,” it was suggested that Jadeja be christened “Cricket Thalapathy.”
Jadeja stated that he always enjoyed bowling at this track in Chennai. I wanted the ball to grip a bit and that if you bowl in the right areas, it would help you. It takes time for visiting teams to settle and plan.”
What Role Does MS Dhoni Play In Ravindra’s Nickname ‘Thalapathy?’
MS Dhoni was given the title ‘Thala,’ which means a leader of a team or group, a long time ago. He has been captaining CSK since 2008 and has won five IPL championships.
A second CSK legend, Suresh Raina, was called ‘Chinna Thala,’ which roughly translates to a close friend or right-hand person of the leader, or ‘Thala.’
Jadeja said in a jocular mood at the presentation ceremony after the match: ”My name hasn’t been confirmed yet; I hope they’ll grant me one.” I always enjoy bowling at this track.
I wanted the ball to grip a bit, and if you carefully bowl in the correct areas, it will help you. It takes time for visiting teams to settle and plan.”
Harsha Bhogle wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “I don’t believe there is any other ground in India where crowds almost become part of the presentation after the match. I love it here. Will you verify Jadeja’s claim of “Cricket Thalapathi?” on Twitter?
CSK conceded 56 runs in the powerplay despite Phil Salt being dismissed on the first delivery. Jadeja’s spell, however, revived the home side. He took three quick wickets in the powerplay in one over—Angkrish Raghuvanshi (Angkrish) and Sunil Narine (Sunil).
Venkatesh Iyer was then dismissed in the following over. Jadeja finished with an impressive 3 for 18 figures, including 11 dots. The Chennai Super Kings could limit KKR’s score to 137-9.
The ball grips the track well, making it a great place to bowl. It takes some time for the visiting teams to get used to this track,” Ravindra added.
