Ruturaj Gaikwad (POTM & Chennai Super Kings Captain): "Feels good actually. I thought we started really well. After a couple of overs, they (MI) got a bit of momentum there. I thought after the powerplay, we pulled it back really well. We were chasing 20-30 runs less. After that, it was just about getting through the first couple of overs and then ensuring one of the top 3 stays there and takes us home. Feels good obviously as it's a big win against a quality side.
(On Anshul Kamboj) Well, he is someone who is keeping it really simple, sticking to the process really well. His mind is working just like a batters mind. On the other hand, Noor is someone who needed a bit of momentum and on wickets like these, he is somebody who will come into play. Since the 3rd game. he has made some adjustments and has come along really well.
(On Akeal Hosein's absence tonight) Well, first of all, we thought how to get the balance right. We wanted to get an extra batter there at Number 8. We wanted a left-handed batter down the order as well. So, Veer and Ghosh were couple of guys who can do both the roles. Both of them are youngsters who have done remarkably well in the practice games. We thought of going with them so we backed them. Both of them coming in at 8 and 9 gives a bit of more cushion in our line-up and both can hit sixes and also give us a couple of overs as well.
(On his own innings tonight) Feels good to be there till the end for the team. As I was always saying, I was always feeling well in the middle. T20 cricket is one of those days where you can hit a good shot straight into the hands of the fielder. A bit here and there, you get those boundaries and sixes. I thank my management and wife as they made sure I stay positive but I was really in a good frame of mind. After that, it was just a matter of time. Once I got set, it was just about finishing off the game which I was lagging for a long time.
(On Kartik Sharma) Yes, it was a good confidence booster for him and also for us as well. Yes, he is a six hitter but he is also someone who has a different style of batting. He is not someone who goes wild slogging. He picks and choses his bowlers, picks and choses his particular type of deliveries. He is someone we thought of since the last game which gives us a good balance if he can bat at Number 4. It's a great sign for us as Mr. Cricket said that he is someone who if he gets going then can be great for us.
We are keeping it really simple. mistakes are going to happen but have to make sure we come back strong, give everything for the jersey and the fans."