Haven’t seen MSD practise his keeping in 15 years at CSK: Hussey
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a platform for many cricketers to showcase their skills and entertain the masses. One such cricketer who has been a household name in the IPL is MS Dhoni, the legendary wicket-keeper batsman who has been leading the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise with great success. However, what’s interesting to note is that despite being an exceptional wicket-keeper, Dhoni has never been seen practising his keeping skills during his time at CSK. This revelation has come from none other than former Australian batter Michael Hussey, who has been associated with CSK as a player and coach for many years.
In a recent interview, Hussey shared some fascinating insights about Dhoni’s practice habits, or rather the lack of them, when it comes to his wicket-keeping. “Haven’t seen MSD practise his keeping in 15 years at CSK,” Hussey said, leaving many cricket fans stunned. He further added, “The only time I’ve seen him catch a ball was when we wanted to knock in a new pair of gloves.” This statement speaks volumes about Dhoni’s incredible natural ability and confidence in his wicket-keeping skills, which have been honed over the years through extensive practice and match experience.
Hussey, who has played alongside Dhoni at CSK and has also coached the team, has had a close look at Dhoni’s practice regime. According to him, Dhoni focuses more on his batting, which is evident from the amount of time he spends in the nets. “He bats a long time…He hits thousands and thousands of balls,” Hussey revealed. This dedication to batting practice has certainly paid off, as Dhoni has been one of the most successful batsmen in the IPL, known for his incredible finishing skills and ability to take the game away from the opposition.
It’s worth noting that Dhoni’s approach to practice is not unique to him. Many top cricketers have their own ways of preparing for a match, and what works for one player may not work for another. However, what’s impressive about Dhoni is his ability to perform under pressure, even without extensive practice. His experience and instincts take over, allowing him to make split-second decisions on the field, which have often turned out to be game-changers.
The CSK dressing room has always been known for its camaraderie and relaxed atmosphere, which has been fostered by Dhoni’s leadership. Hussey has spoken about how the team members often socialize in Dhoni’s room, where they engage in various activities, including watching movies and playing video games. This team bonding has played a significant role in CSK’s success over the years, as it has helped to create a sense of unity and purpose among the players.
In addition to his on-field exploits, Dhoni has also been known for his fun-loving and down-to-earth personality. Hussey has shared some interesting anecdotes about Dhoni’s sense of humor and how he often keeps his teammates entertained. For instance, Dhoni has been known to enjoy a good laugh and often plays pranks on his teammates, which helps to keep the atmosphere light and relaxed.
In conclusion, MS Dhoni’s approach to practice is a reflection of his confidence and experience as a cricketer. While he may not spend a lot of time practising his wicket-keeping skills, his dedication to batting practice has certainly paid off. As a leader, Dhoni has created a positive and relaxed atmosphere in the CSK dressing room, which has contributed to the team’s success in the IPL. As we look forward to the upcoming season of the IPL, it will be interesting to see how Dhoni and CSK perform, and whether they can continue their winning ways.
About the Author
