If MS Dhoni had a blueprint for victory in Friday’s semi-final against Kings XI Punjab, it certainly was one that had the word ‘masterstroke’ written all over.

Muralirathan, Chennai’s Sri Lankan import, accepted the responsibility of opening the attack against one of the better batting line-ups.

When Shaun Marsh smacked the very first ball of the match through the covers, it did seem as if Chennai may have blundered in using the off-spinner against a batsman in such ominous form. Dhoni removed Muralitharan immediately after and what followed — an eight over spell from Ntini and Gony — destroyed Punjab’s hopes. By the time Murali came back to bowl again in the 11th over, Kings XI were already six down for 45.

While Murali managed an impressive turn after returning for his second over — and proving Warne right, Gony’s remained the most economical spell of the match. Ntini, for his two wickets and a run-out, earned the Man of the Match award.