Rachin Ravindra led from the front as Chennai Super Kings defeated Mumbai Indians by four wickets in their IPL 2025 season opener. The New Zealand opener delivered an impressive unbeaten 65 off 45 balls, playing a pivotal role in the win. More importantly, he experienced the electrifying atmosphere of MS Dhoni fandom in Chennai for the first time from the ringside. The crowd erupted as MS Dhoni walked in with CSK needing just 4 runs from 8 balls. While Dhoni remained unbeaten on 0, Ravindra finished the match in style, smashing a six off the first ball of the final over. Reflecting on his match-winning performance, Ravindra admitted it was difficult to stay composed amid the deafening cheers. "It's difficult to soak it in when you're in the moment because you're simply focused on winning the game for the team, but it's hard to ignore," he said. He described the experience of sharing the crease with Dhoni as special, acknowledging the legendary status of the former captain. "You hear Dhoni come out with the whistles and the noise. It's cool to share the crease with him for the first time. He's a legend of the game, and people love him here. So it's special," Ravindra said. He also joked about how most fans were eagerly hoping to see Dhoni finish the game but they got to witness him hit a six instead. "All the crowd would have been hoping that I gave him [the strike] and he finished it. But it's just about getting the job done. He has finished so many games for CSK, and I'm sure there's plenty more to come," he added. 'It is an honour to open for CSK' CSK had initially turned to Ravindra as an opener last year when Devon Conway was injured. Despite releasing both players before the auction, the management used their Right to Match (RTM) card for Ravindra and re-signed Conway for IPL 2025. Even with Conway available, CSK retained faith in Ravindra to open the innings. Also Read: Pat Cummins Keeps It Very Simple': Ishan Kishan on Captain's Support The Kiwi cricketer expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, calling it an honour to open for CSK. "It's certainly an honour. They have been guys who've done so well. I'm definitely grateful to be in this role," he said. Reflecting on how the last year went, Ravindra wants to start fresh and is hopeful to continue his good form this year. "We know T20 is a fickle game, and results go up and down. But hopefully, I can bat the way I want to and hit good cricket shots, and it results in wins for our CSK," he said. Chennai Super Kings will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their next fixture on March 28 in Chennai.