Chennai Super Kings had a disappointing Indian Premier League 2020 season as they could only manage six wins from 14 league stage matches to finish at the seventh place in the points table. This was the first time in the franchise’s history that they were not able to qualify for the playoff stages.
However, England’s Sam Curran was one of the biggest positives for the franchise as he delivered the goods with both bat as well as the ball. Curran scalped 13 wickets in 14 matches at an average of 26.46. Furthermore, the left-hander scored 186 runs in 11 innings at an average of 23.25 and a strike rate of 131.91.
Curran was able to deliver the goods while bowling in the powerplay overs and he also did a fine job in the death overs. Moreover, Curran was also able to get some quick runs while batting down the order and also opened the innings for CSK in a couple of matches.
Curran feels he has taken his game to a whole new level while playing under the leadership of MS Dhoni. The all-rounder had a successful stint with CSK and it has definitely added a shot in the arm.
Sam Curran said ahead of the second T20I against South Africa, “I really enjoyed the IPL, I feel like I have taken my game to a different standard in terms of my learnings from that tournament. I will definitely take a lot away from playing in that group and [from being] with the coaching staff in Chennai. I feel my game has improved since I went there. Hopefully, I can keep improving and become a regular for England.”
On the other hand, England won the first T20I against South Africa by five wickets after a match-winning unbeaten knock of 86 runs from Jonny Bairstow. Sam Curran also played a key role in restricting the Proteas to 179 as he registered his best bowling figures of 3-28 in his four overs.
Curran added, “I thought it was a really nice performance – I just used my different variations and skills that I have been working on and luckily enough it came out all right. The competition is really good so when you’re in the team, you have to take your opportunities.”
Curran will look to continue his good form in the series against South Africa. The second T20I will take place at Boland Park, Paarl on 29th November.
