Ravindra Jadeja came into his own in Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) comprehensive win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Monday with a three-wicket haul that laid the foundation of CSK's big win. Interestingly, the spell not just ended Jadeja's return to bowling form but also got him the title he had been waiting for -- the 'Cricket Thalapathy' of CSK.
Jadeja led the CSK bowling chart with figures of 3 for 18, which helped the hosts restrict KKR to a below-par 137 for 9 and then register a seven-wicket win by completing the chase with ease in 17.4 overs.
Jadeja was named the 'Player of the Match' and at the post-match presentation was asked if he too has been given a title by CSK franchise and fans like MS Dhoni, who is lovingly called 'Thala', and Suresh Raina, the 'Chinna Thala'.
In the post-match presentation at the Chepauk, the presenter asked Jadeja if he has been given a title by the franchise and the CSK fans like MS Dhoni is called 'Thala' and former Chennai batter Suresh Raina is called 'Chinna Thala', while it has been suggested to christen Jadeja as the 'Cricket Thalapathy'.
"My title hasn't yet been verified, hopefully they'll give me one," Jadeja said on a lighter note. But CSK didn't take time to respond to the request.
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A few minutes later, a post popped on the CSK social media accounts: “Verified as Cricket Thalapathy,” it read, referring to Jadeja.
Regarding his bowling performance, Jadeja said: "I always enjoy my bowling on this track (Chennai). I was hoping the ball grips a little and if you bowl in the right areas, it helps you. For visiting teams, it takes time to settle in and plan."
