Chennai Super Kings 39-year-old skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni who retired from international cricket last year, admitted that “getting old and being fit are two difficult things”.

After CSK beat Rajasthan Royals by 45 runs in their IPL match Dhoni said, “When you are playing, you don’t really want anyone to say he’s unfit. I have to keep up with the younger guys, they are very fast, it’s good to challenge them”.

“Performances are something that’s guaranteed. I wasn’t guaranteeing performances when I was 24. I can’t guarantee when I am 40, but at least if people can’t point finger at me that he’s unfit then that will be a big positive for me.”

Dhoni said he was glad with CSK scoring above 180 runs, even they could have got more. “I felt Sam bowled really well. Deepak, there was a bit of miscalculation with the knuckle delivery. So I felt a good start was important. Even the wet ball was spinning. I don’t really mind Jos playing reverse sweep. If the wet ball was turning then the chance of the dry ball turning is high.”

Dhoni was glad to have Moeen Ali back. Alo took three wickets giving seven runs in three overs. “The first six balls I played could have cost us in another game.”

The CSK skipper added, “The way we have prepared. The bowlers have been under the pump last year also, so they’re used to the conditions”.

After taking the wicket of captain Sanju Samson he thought it was a good score to chase down but unfortunately too many wickets were lost in the middle overs from his side. “Our bowlers bowled really well, they batted too deep. 10-15 runs extra we gave down the line. We lost the match but there are a lot of positives. The dew didn’t come and the ball was still turning, so it was a bit shocking to see.

“It’s important to maintain good composure, this format demands us to score at a higher risk rate, so it’s very normal to get out often. I keep working on the basics and giving myself some time at the centre.”