Chennai Super Kings (CSK) put up a fight but lost to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by two runs at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium. The five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions suffered their ninth defeat from 11 games. After the game, former Australia wicketkeeper-batter Adam Gilchrist was not too critical of MS Dhoni's tactics, especially the 33-run over from left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed and whether he should've used Anshul Kamboj under circumstances.
"Tactically, I don't know if a huge difference could have been made. Given going back to Khaleel was risky at the back end because he had gone for somewhat 32 runs in the first two overs. Maybe he could have gone to Kamboj. Given where Noor finished, Jadeja with an extra over of spin is what he could have gone with. It's such a mixed bag. They also bowled 45 dot balls," Gilchrist said on Cricbuzz.
However, Gilchrist questioned whether Dhoni is losing his acumen as captain as he nears retirement. The former Punjab Kings (PBKS) captain also said that he does not want to be too harsh as the bowling was bad.
"MS...he is never animated or shows any visible signs that he is upset. I just wonder if the energy is still being generated for him internally. Whether the brain is still ticking for him as astutely as it always has, as he edges closer and closer to the end. Be it this year or next year, whatever it is. I don't want to critique his leadership harshly because I feel he has been let down by some bad bowling," Gilchrist added.
Gilchrist on Dhoni missing full toss
He also talked about missed opportunity in the final over against Yash Dayal where the 43-year-old missed a low full toss and got out lbw for an eight-ball 12.
"Even MS, just a sign of where he is at. Just to miss that one...effectively it was a full toss. He never used to miss those...used to just pick them up," he said.
Dhoni takes blame for defeat
After the match, Dhoni took the blame of the defeat as he came ahead of impact player Shivam Dube and could not take CSK over the line.
"When I went into bat, with the kind of deliveries and the runs needed, I felt I should've converted a couple more shots to ease the pressure. I take the blame," the CSK captain said.