Haven’t seen MSD practise his keeping in 15 years at CSK: Hussey
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a platform for numerous talented cricketers to showcase their skills, and one of the most successful teams in the league has been the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Led by the enigmatic MS Dhoni, CSK has won multiple championships, and their success can be attributed to the team’s cohesive unit and Dhoni’s exceptional leadership. However, what makes Dhoni’s success even more remarkable is his unique approach to the game, particularly when it comes to his wicket-keeping skills.
According to former Australia batter and CSK teammate, Michael Hussey, Dhoni’s approach to wicket-keeping is quite unconventional. In a recent interview, Hussey revealed that he hasn’t seen Dhoni practise his keeping in his around 15 years with CSK as a player and coach. This statement may come as a surprise to many, given Dhoni’s exceptional wicket-keeping skills, which have been a hallmark of his career.
“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 anecdote highlights Dhoni’s laid-back approach to the game, and his ability to perform under pressure without extensive practice. Hussey added, “He bats a…long time…He hits thousands and thousands of balls.” This statement suggests that Dhoni’s focus has always been on his batting, and he has spent countless hours honing his skills with the bat.
Dhoni’s approach to the game is a testament to his confidence and self-assurance. As a wicket-keeper, he has always been known for his exceptional skills behind the stumps, and his ability to take crucial catches and effect run-outs has been a key factor in CSK’s success. However, the fact that he doesn’t practise his keeping skills extensively is a reflection of his unique personality and approach to the game.
Hussey’s comments also provide a glimpse into Dhoni’s personality and how he interacts with his teammates. The former Australia batter has always spoken highly of Dhoni, and their friendship has been well-documented. In fact, Hussey has often credited Dhoni with being a key factor in his own success during his time with CSK.
The CSK dressing room has always been known for its camaraderie and team spirit, and Dhoni has been the driving force behind this unity. According to Hussey, the team’s socialising often takes place in Dhoni’s room, where players gather to relax and unwind. This sense of camaraderie has been a key factor in CSK’s success, and Dhoni’s leadership has played a significant role in fostering this team spirit.
In addition to his exceptional cricketing skills, Dhoni is also known for his love of pranks and his ability to keep his teammates entertained. Hussey has often spoken about Dhoni’s sense of humour and his ability to lighten the mood, even in the most tense situations. This ability to keep his teammates relaxed and focused has been a key factor in CSK’s success, and Dhoni’s leadership has been instrumental in creating a positive team culture.
In conclusion, MS Dhoni’s approach to the game is a reflection of his unique personality and confidence. His ability to perform under pressure without extensive practice is a testament to his skills and experience, and his leadership has been a key factor in CSK’s success. As Hussey’s comments highlight, Dhoni’s approach to the game is unconventional, but it has been incredibly effective. As the IPL continues to evolve and new talent emerges, Dhoni’s legacy will continue to inspire and influence a new generation of cricketers.