MS Dhoni considers the experience of playing on the pitches of South Africa very important. He feels his team is familiar with the conditions there after playing enough matches there.

Dhoni said, “Most of our players played here during the second edition of IPL and now also in the Champions League Twenty20. The experience of playing on these pitches has been invaluable.”

Murali Vijay, Suresh Raina and R Ashwin played great roles as Chennai Super Kings won the Champions League T20 in South Africa by defeating Warriors team in the finals on Sunday. Ashwin claimed 13 wickets which was highest in this event.

Dhoni praised Ashwin for his performance and feels he is a smart cricketer. The Indian skipper said, “He is a very smart bowler who does not need much guidance and knows what is expected of him.”

CSK won 17 million rands in this sporting event. Dhoni greatly wanted victory in this event as some players could play for other teams in the next IPL because of new auctions.

Dhoni added, “After being together for three years, the core won’t remain the same as few of the players will play for different teams. That’s why we badly wanted to win this tournament. That’s our way of saying ‘thank you’ having enjoyed playing together for the past three years.”