MS Dhoni led Chennai Super Kings to the Indian Premier League title (Picture: IPL)

MS Dhoni paid tribute to beaten finalists Kolkata Knight Riders after leading Chennai Super Kings to the Indian Premier League title.

Chennai were crowned IPL champions for a fourth time after beating Kolkata by 27 runs in Friday’s final in Dubai.

South Africa batter Faf du Plessis hit 86 from 59 balls and England all-rounder Moeen Ali smashed an unbeaten 37 from 20 balls as Dhoni’s side posted 192-3.

Kolkata openers Shubman Gill and Venkatesh Iyer took Eoin Morgan’s side to 88-0 at the halfway stage but both fell shortly after reaching their half-centuries.

The Knight Riders proceeded to suffer a dismal collapse, losing eight wickets for 33 runs and ultimately finishing on 165-9.

Chennai Super Kings’ title triumph is their first since 2018 and fourth overall, with five-time winners Mumbai Indians the only franchise who has enjoyed more success in IPL history.

Dhoni said: ‘Before I start talking about CSK, I need to talk about Kolkata. It’s difficult to come back and do what they have done.

Say HELLO to #VIVOIPL 2021 CHAMPIONS 🏆🏆🏆🏆#CSKvKKR | #Final | @ChennaiIPLpic.twitter.com/1tnq5C6m2F