In one of the most talked-about moments of IPL 2024, Virat Kohli, the captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), orchestrated a dramatic turn of events against Chennai Super Kings (CSK), led by the legendary MS Dhoni. This match, which took place at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, not only decided the fate of CSK in the playoffs but also sparked a no-handshake saga that captured the attention of cricket fans worldwide.
The Match Context
RCB was hosting CSK in a do-or-die situation for Chennai. With 17 runs needed off the last over, MS Dhoni, known for his finishing prowess, was at the crease. The responsibility fell on the shoulders of RCB’s young left-arm pacer, Yash Dayal, who had previously been in the spotlight for a forgettable over against Kolkata Knight Riders the previous year.
Kohli’s Masterstroke
Virat Kohli, known for his strategic acumen, had a plan. He communicated with Dayal, advising him not to give pace to Dhoni, suggesting instead to use slower deliveries. This tactical advice was the masterstroke. After Dhoni hit the first ball for a six, Dayal, following Kohli’s plan, delivered a slower ball that deceived Dhoni, leading to his dismissal. This moment was pivotal, not just for the game but for the narrative that unfolded post-match.
The No-Handshake Incident ft Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni
Following CSK’s loss, a visibly distraught MS Dhoni made his way off the field without engaging in the customary post-match handshake with the opposing team. This act, or rather the absence of it, was interpreted in various ways by fans and analysts. Kohli, however, did not let this moment define the sportsmanship between them. He was seen making his way to the CSK dressing room, a gesture that spoke volumes about his respect for Dhoni, despite the competitive edge.
Yash Dayal’s Statements
“When I got hit for the six and I was going back to my run-up, I was thinking ‘why is it that I always get stuck in these situations? Every time the batter hits me for runs’. But when I re-accessed the situation, Virat bhaiya came and said ‘You can take some time’ and what to bowl to Mahi bhai. He was like ‘try the slower ball because if you give him pace then you won’t need to see where the ball has landed. It will always be a six’,” Dayal told News24.
“That’s when I realised that I can’t give him speed, or else I’ll get smashed again. It [taking the pace off] was going to be my best option. I had confidence in my slower balls; I was controlling them well. I bowled it from the back of my hand, and it worked.”
In nutshell:
The match between RCB and CSK in IPL 2024 was more than just a cricket game; it was a showcase of strategy, sportsmanship, and the human elements of competition. Kohli’s tactical genius in guiding Dayal through a critical over, coupled with his gesture towards Dhoni post-match, paints a picture of a leader who values both victory and respect in sports. The no-handshake saga, while initially appearing as a rift, was beautifully mended by Kohli’s actions, emphasizing that beyond the rivalry, there lies a deep respect among cricketers, especially between legends like Kohli and Dhoni.
