As the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) gear up for a crucial encounter against Chennai Super Kings (CSK), all-rounder Swapnil Singh has expressed that the presence of MS Dhoni is not a source of pressure but rather a motivational force for the team.
Swapnil Singh on MS Dhoni’s impact
Swapnil Singh has highlighted how Dhoni’s simplicity in approach and execution during matches has been influential. The teachings and wisdom imparted by Dhoni over the years are something that Swapnil plans to remember and apply in the upcoming game.
“Mahi bhai will be in front of us. When you see him, some memories hit you straight away. How he keeps things simple in matches. In big matches, how he keeps things even more simple. Him being there is an inspiration for us and not pressure. I personally will remember the teachings from him over the years and keep things very relaxed,” Swapnil Singh told India Today.
One Last Dance in Chinnaswamy.
MS Dhoni has hit 32 Sixes with SR of 180 and avg of 92.8 in Chinnaswamy. pic.twitter.com/udYyIjiokj— 🎰 (@StanMSD) May 17, 2024
RCB’s journey this season has been a tale of two halves. After a dismal start with 1 win and 7 losses in their first 8 games, they have managed an incredible turnaround with 5 consecutive wins. The match against CSK is not just another game; it’s a virtual knockout with a playoff spot on the line. However, Swapnil believes that the team has been playing under knockout pressure since their eighth game, and this has become the new normal for them.
“We have been playing knockout matches since our game 7 or 8. So, at this point, it just feels normal. The CSK match, it is a big game, there is a lot at stake, if we win by a certain margin, we will qualify also. But when you play, you don’t think about these things, you just focus on your own game, and try to execute your skills,” added Swapnil.
As RCB prepares for the showdown, the team is aware of the stakes. A win could secure them a top-four finish and a spot in the playoffs. Swapnil acknowledges the importance of the match but maintains that the team’s focus is on executing their skills and playing their own game.
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