Focus on the basics and tips from Mahendra Singh Dhoni have been the guiding force for Shivam Dube this IPL.

“I’m more focused this time and focusing on the basics. I spoke to many seniors in the team, while Mahibhai also helped me to improve my game,” Dube, adjudged Man of the Match for his unbeaten 95, said at the post-match presentation after CSK’s 23-run win over Royal Challengers Bangalore on Tuesday.

“Mahibhai had said, ‘Just be focused, be still and just let your skills work in the game’. I really wanted to time the ball and tried to maintain by balance,” Dube, who bats left-handed, said about his knock.

Super Kings skipper Ravindra Jadeja too was a very relieved man after finally tasting his first win as a captain. “This is my first victory ever as a captain. I would like to dedicate it to my wife (Riva) and also to the team, because first victory is always special.

“As a batting unit, everybody did a good job. Robbie (Robin Uthappa) and Shivam batted brilliantly, while the bowlers contributed as well,” Jadeja emphasised.

He added: “Our management doesn’t put pressure on me. They are relaxed and always motivate me. As a captain, I’m still picking brains of the senior players. Mahibhai is there, so I always go to him.”