Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni delighted fans with his explosive cameo against Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday (April 14).

Dhoni, batting at No. 6 in the final over of CSK’s innings, hammered three consecutive sixes off MI captain Hardik Pandya.

The seasoned wicketkeeper amassed an unbeaten 20 runs off just 4 balls, guiding the defending champions to a formidable total of 206/4 in their allotted 20 overs.

Following the match, CSK’s bowling consultant Eric Simmons showered praise on MS Dhoni, describing him as the “batting blueprint” for their team’s late-innings batting.

Simmons emphasized that the tactics implemented against Dhoni in practice sessions often translate into success during actual matches as well.

“They’re looking at restricting us to under 200 and then they’re suddenly facing 206 with an over like that. Every time — we live close to him — he continues to amaze us. To go out there and hit the first ball like that for six and then continue the way he does.

“But he has been batting exceptionally well in the nets…just another unbelievable MS Dhoni moment,” the South African said in the post-match presser.

“His calmness at the wicket… we use him as a batting template when we’re bowling at the death, the pre-season because he’s so good at it. If we can test out our theories against him, then we know we’re going to do well,” he added.