Chennai: Afghan left-arm wrist spinner Noor Ahmad delivered a standout performance against Kolkata Knight Riders, inspired by an extended discussion with Chennai Super Kings legend MS Dhoni during practice. Ahmad claimed three wickets for 21 runs in his four overs, dismissing Ajinkya Rahane, Rinku Singh, and Cameron Green during the middle phase, paving the way for CSK’s 32-run victory. Prior to this match, Ahmad had secured just one wicket across four appearances in the tournament. On a surface providing some assistance, he dominated the opposition batters, notably removing the Australian all-rounder with a rapid delivery that crashed into the stumps. CSK assistant coach Sridharan Sriram highlighted Ahmad’s preparation for the game and his interaction with Dhoni, who is sidelined this season with a calf injury. ‘The conditions were favorable today with some grip on the pitch, unlike the flatter surfaces in previous games. He bowled slower, adding more side spin and dip, which he’s been practicing,’ Sriram explained during the post-match briefing. He noted that Dhoni advised Ahmad to incorporate more leg breaks in a detailed practice session, which proved effective in the game. Sriram emphasized the value of generating turn from the pitch for spinners. ‘Achieving some movement off the surface is crucial. Even on flat tracks, maintaining aggression by imparting revolutions and spin can force errors from batters, preventing them from dominating,’ he added. Sriram also discussed the synergy between West Indian spinner Akeal Hosein and Ahmad. ‘They work well together and communicate effectively, sharing a strong rapport. In this match, Hosein advised Ahmad on the optimal length during a timeout. After adjusting to that intermediate length, Ahmad became extremely difficult to play, as the ball gripped just enough to complicate straight drives,’ Sriram concluded.
