English speedster Mark Wood stated that he wants to pick the brains of former Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Windies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo to become a match winner for the Chennai Super Kings during the 11th edition of the Indian Premier League starting in a month’s time.
“I think learning to cope in pressure situations can only help. And picking the brains of some of the legends of the game. MS Dhoni as my captain will provide a great insight and I would love to work with (Dwayne) Bravo and develop my slower ball,” Wood said.
He further added that he was “immensely proud” to get play for the Chennai Super Kings.
England’s Mark Wood (R) stands dejected after their loss as New Zealand’s Kane Williamson consoles him during the first Twenty20 cricket match between New Zealand and England at Westpac Stadium in Wellington on February 13, 2018. / AFP PHOTO / Marty MELVILLE (Photo credit should read MARTY MELVILLE/AFP/Getty Images)
“It will be an immensely proud moment for me to play for the Chennai Super Kings in the IPL,” Wood was quoted by the CSK website as saying. “Not only is the IPL a great competition but I also get to play for the best team! Who wouldn’t want that? I’m very lucky and hope to be a match-winner for my team,” he added.
The speedster further conceded that he wants to thrive under pressure.
Chennai has included the likes of youngster Lungisani Ngidi in the CSK squad. Speaking about the expectations on the fast bowling brigade Wood said, “Of course there is pressure, but that’s what switches you on.”
“It might not go your way every time but if you give everything you’ve got and commit to every ball, then, hopefully, you come out on the right side more often than not,” Wood said.
Meanwhile, CEO of SK KS Vishwanathan said that the team was in need of someone who can regularly clock the 140 km/hr mark. Head coach Stephen Fleming will back Wood to be a sensible bowling option in the tournament.
“We were looking at someone who can regularly bowl at 140kmph and (head coach) Stephen Fleming felt Wood was a good option. We feel he has the potential to do well in the IPL,” Viswanathan added.
