Making his IPL debut against Gujarat Titans, Chennai Super Kings youngster Sameer Rizvi, made a significant impact. Rizvi’s impressive debut was one of the highlights of CSK’s dominant 63-run victory at the iconic Chepauk stadium. Rizvi, however, attributed his stellar performance to the invaluable advice received from MS Dhoni.
“I was going to hit it big if a delivery was on my radar. The very first ball was in my area and I smashed it for a six,” Rizvi shared in a post-match interview shared by the IPL’s official handle.
Acquired for a hefty sum of Rs 8.4 crores in the IPL auction, Rizvi showcased his explosive batting prowess, notably dispatching world-class bowler Rashid Khan for two towering sixes in his maiden IPL appearance.
“When the auction happened, CSK picked me up, I was happy because meeting MS Dhoni was a dream, let alone playing with him. It has been fulfilled,” Rizvi expressed, reflecting on his journey to IPL stardom and meeting his idol.
Recalling Dhoni’s advice, Rizvi emphasized the importance of playing his natural game while managing nerves in high-pressure situations.
“MS Dhoni has told me to play the way I do, telling me that the game is the same, the skill is the same, but the mindset is different,” Rizvi shared.
Despite missing out on his preferred jersey number, Rizvi maintains strong camaraderie with the CSK squad, seeking guidance and support from teammates in his pursuit of excellence on the IPL stage.
“My jersey number is seven. I could not get it. So I got jersey number one. In this team, everyone loves and supports each other. I was playing IPL for the first time and everyone cheered for me with all their hearts. Whenever I want to ask something, I ask my fellow players. I ask them about the mindset of batting. I want to learn these things,” concluded the 20-year-old batsman.
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