MS Dhoni’s magic in Chepauk, a pep talk by Mahi changed Noor Ahmed’s luck, wreaked havoc against KKR

News India Live, Digital Desk: It is said that MS Dhoni’s advice on the cricket field is no less than a lifesaver. The latest example of this was seen in the 22nd match of IPL 2026. ‘Thala’ Dhoni had a big hand in the lethal bowling by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) young spinner Noor Ahmed against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). After the match, it has been revealed that Dhoni had a long conversation with Noor Ahmed before the match, which took the confidence of this young player to the seventh sky. There was a ‘secret’ discussion with Dhoni before the match. On the turning pitch of Chepauk, Noor Ahmed broke the back of KKR’s three main batsmen by sending them to the pavilion. After the match, Noor said, “Just before the match, Mahi Bhai spoke to me for a long time. He told me about the nature of the wicket and the right length to bowl here. He just said, ‘Believe in your strength and force the batsmen to play’.” This little ‘pep talk’ from Dhoni gave Noor the clarity he needed. Noor Ahmed’s ‘Spell of the Match’ This rising star from Afghanistan spent only 21 runs in his quota of 4 overs and took 3 valuable wickets. Noor completely confused the KKR top order with his googly and flipper. The result of his precise line and length was that KKR’s run pace came to a complete halt after the powerplay. For his brilliant bowling, he was also awarded the title of ‘Player of the Match’. Gaikwad and Samson also praised the performance of Noor Ahmed. Captain Sanju Samson said, “As a young spinner, the way Noor bowled under pressure is praiseworthy. Having Mahi Bhai in the team is a boon for our youngsters. He reads the game very well from behind the keeper and helps the bowlers. Let’s do it.” Rituraj Gaikwad also admitted that Noor’s tight bowling made it easier for Chennai to defend the score of 192 runs. Dhoni factor in Chennai’s victory. Even though MS Dhoni is no longer the captain, his presence on the field is enough to change the course of the match. He constantly goes to the bowlers and gives them suggestions regarding field settings and strategy. Noor Ahmed’s success once again proves that Dhoni’s cricketing mind is still the sharpest in the world. With this victory, Chennai has now strengthened its position in the points table.