Frequent rain interruptions affected the West Indies momentum but Ramnaresh Sarwan ensured they registered a competitive 185 for seven from 27 overs.
However, thanks to a strong opening partnership between Dinesh Karthik and Gautam Gambhir and Dhoni's heroics towards the end, India defeated the West Indies by six wickets via Duckworth-Lewis method and take an unassailable 2-1 lead in the four-match series.
"We felt we had our chance after scoring 185. But we needed to be a bit more attacking at the start of the Indian innings," said Gayle at the post-match ceremony.
The skipper lamented the frequent stoppages due to rain.
"Weather made it difficult, but we can't do anything about it. In the end we tried to pull it off but credit to Dhoni, he saw the team home," Gayle added.
Dhoni, meanwhile, said the frequent rain interruptions put them on backfoot as it brought D/L method into play.
"Everytime we thought we were in the game the Duckworth-Lewis got us onto the backfoot. We couldn't use our second Power Play due to that," said Dhoni.
Dhoni, however, praised the opening partnership for seeing the team through.
"It was a good effort by the openers. Once we get a good start we have the firepower to see the team home," said Dhoni, who was named Man of the Match for his unbeaten the 46.
He also felt that the bowlers did a good job.
"Getting Gayle out was the target and the bowlers did just that. because there's no way you can stop him other than getting him out," said the skipper who would be looking to wrap up things in the last ODI at the same venue on Sunday.
