Page 158 - IPL 2

In Conversation with N. Srinivasan...

Tell us the thought process behind the name and the logo of your team.
The name Chennai Super Kings I would say draws on the history of rulers emerging from this region. The logo to an extent is inspired
by popular folk-lore which holds that the lion is the king of the jungle. The minimalist style is meant to convey a sense of youth and
vibrancy. The team colours are yellow and blue, with yellow denoting the fi ery spirit that burns in the team’s belly, while blue represents
“ infi nity, as one of the oldest yet most progressive regions of the world.

What was the mood in the dugout going into that decisive fi nal over in the fi nal of Season 1?
Having defeated Kings XI Punjab in the Semi Final comprehensively, every member of our team believed that we could WIN the fi rst
ever Grand Final.
W

But as is now history, the Australian cricketing great Shane Warne had other things in store for us as he helped his Rajasthan Royals e are a team with the right
to a thrilling three wicket victory over us. Believe me when I say that, up until that last ball, I think our entire team and staff felt that attitude and our winning
we had a chance! Things I feel would have ended slightly differently had Warne not struck that famous boundary of the last ball of the
penultimate (19th) over. But, as they say, all that is now history and we look forward to winning the IPL 2010. mantra is “JUST DO YOUR BEST”.

Tell us of your experience with Dhoni as captain. N. SRINIVASAN
Let me put it this way, cricket has always been my passion. I have been associated with cricket for quite a while now. I wanted someone
with the same enthusiasm, energy and expertise to lead my team the Chennai Super Kings. In Dhoni, I saw the same dedication and an
almost manic obsession to succeed – traits which endear me to him and indeed a billion plus fans of his around India. He is my Man - just
what the doctor prescribed.

Dhoni has a perfect blend of youth, aggression, determination and man management skills that are required to be a winner in all walks
of life – be it on the fi eld or in life! He is a true team player and I am certain that all of our team would vouch for that. But most important
is that he is a born leader!! He is blessed with a clever cricketing brain that has clarity of thought and also possesses the uncanny ability
to communicate and execute. All of which make him a complete cricketer and human being!

Hayden had to leave midway in Season 1, but he made up for it adequately in season 2.
There is no denying the fact that we missed Hayden a lot in the inaugural season as he had to leave midway given his international
duties. Season 2009 in South Africa, we saw him go all out, I think you are right, it seemed that he wanted to make up for the lost time.

He is an absolute asset for the Chennai Super Kings and his contribution is much appreciated by the team, the management and the “
fans alike.

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