Haven’t seen MSD practise his keeping in 15 years at CSK: Hussey
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a breeding ground for talented cricketers, and one of the most successful teams in the tournament’s history is the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). With a trophy cabinet that boasts of four IPL titles, CSK has been a force to reckon with, and a significant contributor to their success has been the enigmatic MS Dhoni. The former Indian captain has been an integral part of CSK since the inaugural season, and his leadership and batting prowess have been instrumental in the team’s triumphs.
However, what’s fascinating is that despite being one of the best wicket-keepers in the world, Dhoni’s practice routine is quite unusual. According to Michael Hussey, the ex-Australia batter who has been associated with CSK as a player and coach, Dhoni hardly ever practises his wicket-keeping. In a recent interview, Hussey revealed that in his around 15 years with CSK, he hasn’t seen Dhoni practise his keeping. “The only time I’ve seen him catch a ball was when we wanted to knock in a new pair of gloves,” he recalled.
This statement may come as a surprise to many, given Dhoni’s exceptional keeping skills. He has been known for his lightning-quick reflexes and ability to effect crucial dismissals behind the stumps. However, it seems that Dhoni’s keeping is more of an innate talent, rather than something that he needs to work on constantly. Hussey added, “He bats a long time…He hits thousands and thousands of balls.” This suggests that Dhoni focuses more on his batting, which is an essential aspect of his game, especially in the IPL.
Dhoni’s batting has been a crucial factor in CSK’s success over the years. He has been known for his ability to finish games, and his calm and composed demeanor under pressure has been a valuable asset to the team. His batting style, which is a mix of conventional and unorthodox shots, has made him a nightmare for opposition bowlers. With a plethora of experience and a deep understanding of the game, Dhoni has been able to adapt to different situations and lead his team to victory.
Hussey’s comments also provide a glimpse into Dhoni’s personality and approach to the game. The fact that he doesn’t feel the need to practise his keeping suggests that he is confident in his abilities and trusts his instincts. This self-assurance has been a hallmark of Dhoni’s career, and it has served him well in his journey as a cricketer.
The IPL has been a platform where players from different countries and cultures come together to showcase their skills. The tournament has been a melting pot of ideas, and players have learned from each other and grown as individuals. The CSK dressing room, in particular, has been a place where players have felt at home, and Dhoni’s leadership has been a significant factor in creating this environment.
In a recent revelation, it was reported that CSK players often socialize in Dhoni’s room, where they engage in various activities, including trying out shisha flavoured tobacco. This is a testament to the camaraderie and bond that exists within the team. The fact that players feel comfortable enough to unwind and have fun in each other’s company is a reflection of the positive team culture that CSK has fostered over the years.
In conclusion, MS Dhoni’s approach to the game is a fascinating aspect of his personality. His ability to trust his instincts and not feel the need to practise his keeping is a testament to his confidence and self-assurance. As a player and leader, Dhoni has been instrumental in CSK’s success, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence a new generation of cricketers. The IPL has been a platform where Dhoni has showcased his skills, and his association with CSK has been a defining factor in his career.
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