England all-rounder Sam Curran starred with bat and ball to help Chennai Super Kings defeat Mumbai Indians by five wickets in the opening match of the 2020 Indian Premier League.
Curran took 1-28 from four overs and took two catches as Chennai restricted Mumbai to 162-9, with India batsman Saurabh Tiwary scoring 42 and South Africa opener Quinton de Kock smashing 33 off 20 balls.
Proteas captain Faf du Plessis led Chennai’s chase with an unbeaten 58 and Curran blasted 18 off six balls as the Super Kings won with four balls remaining.
Chennai were beaten by Mumbai in last year’s IPL final and captain Dhoni said: ‘There are plenty of positives but still of areas we need to improve.
‘Rayudu had a wonderful partnership with Faf. The experience pays off, everyone talks about it. You need a good mix of youngsters and experienced players.’
IPL 2020 is taking place in Dubai – some six months after it was due to start – because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Dhoni, who announced his retirement from international cricket last month, added: ‘It is an amazing job done by the IPL, especially ones behind the scenes.
‘To make it happen there are a hundred different things. To have the practice facilities like these at the ICC academy is fantastic.’
India batsman Sharma, who led Mumbai to the title last year but suffered defeat in the IPL 2020 opener, said: ‘None of our batsmen carried on like Faf and Rayudu did for CSK.
‘I think we made 85 in the first ten overs but credit to the CSK bowlers, they bowled well at the end to pull things back. That’s something for us to learn.
‘It’s still early days. We all want to start really well, it’s crucial in this tournament where momentum is important.
‘We did make a few mistakes but hopefully we’ll rectify those and come out smarter in the next game.’
Curran, meanwhile, admitted he was surprised at being promoted up Chennai’s batting order but grateful for the opportunity and pleased to contribute to a win.
‘It was a six or out mentality so that’s how you have got to play this game,’ said Curran.
‘To be honest, I was very surprised I went in but he’s a genius and he obviously thought something. But a great win in the end and a great start.’
Follow Metro Sport across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
For more stories like this, check our sport page.