Shahrukh Khan, released from the Tamil Nadu squad midway through last season's Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), played a key role in his team's season opener against Railways. Coming in at 83 for three in 11.3 overs, he stayed unbeaten on 46 off 30 balls, with five fours and two sixes, helping Tamil Nadu post 172 for seven at the Daly College ground. The total proved enough, as Tamil Nadu beat Railways by six runs.

Shahrukh said Dinesh Karthik's advice had shaped his approach. Karthik, who interacted with the players during a practice session ahead of the tournament, had told him he could attack the bowlers whenever he wanted, but that the priority was to take the team through a difficult phase after two quick wickets. Shahrukh said Karthik had helped him with his mindset and that he had produced his best for Tamil Nadu under his captaincy.S1

Shahrukh also credited Karthik with laying the foundation for Tamil Nadu's IPL generation, noting that five or six years ago 10-12 Tamil Nadu players were in the IPL, and that Karthik taught the young players how to play T20 cricket, how to function as a team and how to win. He also said coach Yo Mahesh had been in regular contact over the previous 20 days, including during the Ranji Trophy, to outline what he expected from him.S1

Reflecting on his innings, Shahrukh said a sense of calm was important and that he had calculated his options well as the innings progressed.S1