Dhoni smashed 224 for off 265 deliveries in India's first innings score of 572 in reply to Australia's 380 to lay the foundation for the hosts' convincing eight-wicket victory in the opening cricket Test of the four-match series here.
Questioned about his majestic double century, Dhoni replied:"I had never dreamt that I would get a double in Tests. I had never even dreamt of playing for the country. So, let's just keep it simple."
"It was important to play some shots. If you have those extra catching fielders, you might make one mistake and end your innings. I had to play a few shots to try and spread the field. That was the motive," said Dhoni, who was also adjudjed the man-of-the-match for his stunning knock.
"But the first partnership was important. Sachin (Tendulkar) and (Cheteshwar) Pujara batted for a period of time. The partnership between Virat (Kohli) and Sachin was crucial. It tired the bowlers a bit."
"Ashwin bowled brilliantly. He bowled in right areas and has got variations. He was consistent in this match. In the second innings, he was well supported by Bhajji (Harbhajan Singh).
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