I am still learning as captain: Jadeja

Following four successive defeats, Chennai opened its IPL 2022 account by defeating Royal Challengers Bangalore at the DY Patil Stadium here. “This is my first-ever victory as a captain. I would like to dedicate it to my wife because the first victory is always special,” Jadeja said at the post-match presentation.

“In the previous four games, we could not cross the line. But as a team, we came good [against RCB]. As a captain, I am still picking the brains of the senior players. Mahi bhai (MS Dhoni) is always there; I always go up to him and discuss [things]. I am still learning and trying to get better with each game,” the 33-year-old Jadeja added.

Jadeja stressed that the Chennai team did not panic even after losing four matches on the trot. “Our management does not put pressure on us; it is relaxed. It always motivates me. We have plenty of experience in the dressing room,” said Jadeja.

“We try to keep calm, back ourselves and play positive cricket. We will look to push hard with the momentum we have got.” Meanwhile, Bangalore skipper Faf du Plessis admitted that his side badly missed the services of pacer Harshal Patel, who is known for his variations and death-bowling skills.