Chennai Super Kings stint helped Dhoni tackle Murali: Chandrasekhar

It was a critical decision by skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni to promote himself ahead of in-form Yuvraj Singh in the batting order during Saturday's World Cup final against Sri Lanka at the Wankhede Stadium.

He later revealed that it was because of his familiarity with Muttiah Muralitharan that he'd promoted himself above man-of-the-tournament Yuvraj. The Indian skipper, who has captained Muralitharan for three years in the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Chennai Super Kings, put his connection to good use in the summit clash denying the Lankan legend any wicket in his last international game.

Former India cricketer VB Chandrasekhar, who is CSK's director of operations, lauded Dhoni's tactical move. "It was a strategic and well-thought decision from Dhoni.

"He knew exactly what he was doing. He wouldn't have batted up the order if a left-arm spinner was bowling.
"Dhoni thought he would be the best man to tackle Muralitharan as he has worked closely with him," Chandrasekhar told MiD DAY yesterday.

The gamble payed off as Dhoni thundered his way to a Man of the Match-winning knock of 91 to steer team to a historic victory.

"I have played a lot with Murali and I know his doosra well. He knows it too. I put pressure on him," said Dhoni in his post-match conference.

Chandrasekhar said Dhoni always backs his decision.

"He has taken many such decisions in the past and he has many times been successful. He is an impact player and always backs his decision," said Chandrasekhar.