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 crowd with their explosive batting, exceptional bowling, and breathtaking fielding. One of the most successful teams in the IPL is the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), led by the enigmatic MS Dhoni. The team has won numerous titles under Dhoni’s leadership, and his calm and composed demeanor on the field has been a key factor in their success.
However, what’s interesting to note is that despite being one of the best wicket-keepers in the world, Dhoni doesn’t seem to practice his keeping skills much. In a recent interview, ex-Australia batter Michael Hussey, who has been associated with CSK as a player and coach, revealed that he hasn’t seen Dhoni practice his keeping in his around 15 years with the team. “The only time I’ve seen him catch a ball was when we wanted to knock in a new pair of gloves,” Hussey recalled.
This statement may come as a surprise to many, given Dhoni’s exceptional keeping skills. He is known for his lightning-quick reflexes and ability to dismiss batsmen with his sharp catching and stumping. However, it seems that Dhoni’s keeping skills are more instinctive and natural, rather than something that he needs to practice regularly.
On the other hand, Hussey noted that Dhoni is a different story when it comes to batting practice. “He bats a…long time…He hits thousands and thousands of balls,” Hussey said. This is not surprising, given Dhoni’s reputation as a hard-hitting batsman who can change the course of a game with his explosive strokeplay.
Dhoni’s approach to practice is a testament to his unique personality and approach to the game. While many cricketers spend hours in the nets, honing their skills and working on their weaknesses, Dhoni seems to rely more on his natural ability and instinct. This approach has served him well throughout his career, and he remains one of the most successful and respected cricketers in the world.
It’s also interesting to note that Dhoni’s room is often the hub of social activity for CSK players. According to Hussey, players often gather in Dhoni’s room to socialize and relax after a long day of practice or a game. “Some like Shisha, flavoured tobacco stuff,” Hussey revealed. This gives a glimpse into the team’s dynamics and the importance of bonding and camaraderie in a high-pressure tournament like the IPL.
In conclusion, MS Dhoni’s approach to practice is a unique aspect of his personality and approach to the game. While he may not practice his keeping skills regularly, he is known to put in a lot of effort into his batting practice. His ability to balance hard work and relaxation is a key factor in his success, and his leadership has been instrumental in CSK’s success in the IPL.
As the IPL continues to entertain and thrill audiences around the world, it’s players like Dhoni who remind us of the importance of hard work, dedication, and teamwork in achieving success. Whether he’s leading his team to victory or socializing with his teammates, Dhoni remains an iconic figure in the world of cricket, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence a new generation of cricketers.
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