Chennai Super Kings chances of making it to the playoffs got a little after their loss to Lucknow Super Giants in an IPL match on Friday. However, the CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad is unfazed by the defeat and remains focused on the last two must-win league games.
Gaikwad said the bowlers had an off-day and would look to address the shortcomings before the crucial league games, which CSK need to win and hope other results go their way to keep their playoff hopes alive.
LSG are out of contention for the playoffs but dented CSK chances on Friday with a seven-wicket victory powered by Mitchell Marsh’s 38-ball 90.
“Bowling had an off-day today,” said Gaikwad, adding, “the first challenge is getting to Chennai and make sure we improve on the areas we need to improve, and then adapt and assess the conditions (in the remaining two league games).”
The CSK skipper, however, remained optimistic about CSK’s chances of making it to the playoffs.
“It is simple (playoff hopes), nothing complicated. Nothing to worry about, just ensure we have a good day and hope that we turn things around.”
Gaikwad admitted that a score around 190 was competitive on the wicket with the pitch offering help to the seamers. But he credited the LSG batters how they approached the chase.
“There was a bit of something for the fast bowlers. Found it difficult to hit it off a hard length. We were looking at 160-170, and got 180. Nothing much better we could have done from a batting point of view.
“They (LSG) batted well and played some extraordinary shots. We were looking (to bowl the short ball) but (Josh) Inglis played differently in the last game, and Marsh plays the short ball well, so we were trying to hit a hard length.
“We missed on execution but they played extraordinary shots. Sometimes the opposition can play good cricket than you, and you have to accept it,” Gaikwad said.
On the other hand, LSG skipper Rishabh Pant said despite the season not going their way it was “amazing” to get a win.
“It feels good (to win). Getting a win definitely feels good. The things we talk about, of having a lot to play for, regardless of how the season ends, we take a lot of pride (in playing like this),” said Pant.
“Four fast bowlers, it has been working for us. The team we have, I am going to say it again, is so amazing. The only thing that can harm us is having too many thought-process.”
Pant, who did not bat at his usual No. 4 position, said the decision was taken to give opportunities to players who had not featured much in the tournament.
“I was ready to bat (tonight). But the idea came in on why not to try players who have not played much. Still wanted to be out there but sometimes, you have to respect some things,” said Pant.
