MS Dhoni Never Looked Rusty In CSK Training: L Balaji
Published - 16 Apr 2020, 02:08 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:05 AM
MS Dhoni began training for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 early. He took the decision after staying away from competitive cricket ever since the World Cup 2019. At the net session for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), MS Dhoni looked much-involved in the practice, and was eyeing a bright return.
IPL 2020 was also considered the route to Dhoni’s return in the national team for the T20 World Cup this year. But due to the unceremonious outbreak of the novel coronavirus, it still remains to see, how these tournament progress.
Even Tiger Woods or Roger Federer make comeback: L Balaji
CSK bowling coach L Balaji closely watched MS Dhoni practicing during the net session. He cited examples of golf and tennis legends Tiger Woods and Roger Federer and said, even they make a comeback after missing marquee tournaments, that does not means they are rough and can’t perform. He also said, the skill level remains the same, even after the break and it will be the same the CSK captain MS Dhoni.
“We shouldn’t be talking about Dhoni’s six-month break. It is no big deal. If you see Tiger Woods or Roger Federer, they miss major tournaments and then come back. The break doesn’t mean that they go off the boil. The skill level doesn’t change. It is the same with Dhoni,” L Balaji said during a chat.
MS Dhoni did not look rusty: L Balaji
Even though he stayed away from cricket for quite some time, and his strike rate and ability as a finisher in the World Cup 2019 was questionable, L Balaji said MS Dhoni did not look rusty during the training from the word go. He is a proven performer, and hence there is no need to worry about his skill level.
“When it comes to proven performers, you need not think about their skill level. He might not be the same as he was when he was 25 or 26, but he is much better-equipped with the mental side of the game. From what I saw during the CSK training, it never looked like Dhoni was away from the game for any length of time. He didn’t look rusty even on the first day of training. That is his greatness,” Balaji observed during a chat on Wednesday.
MS Dhoni has been one of the most successful captains in the lucrative tournament. He has led the Chennai franchise to three IPL triumphs besides them being a consistent side to reach the IPL play-offs.
