Not MS Dhoni! Navjot Singh Sidhu trusts this batter to be CSK's finisher in IPL 2024

Cricketer-turned-commentator Navjot Singh Sidhu has backed Sameer Rizvi as CSK finisher ahead of MS Dhoni. Navjot Singh Sidhu also highlighted a crucial reason for the same. Sameer Rizvi, CSK’s new recruit, was picked for Rs. 8.40 crore during the IPL 2024 auction.

20-year-old Sameer Rizvi made his IPL debut in the clash against Gujarat Titans. The right-handed batter showed a similar style to MS Dhoni in the match, hitting 14 runs off just 6 balls. However, he got out for a golden duck in the previous game against Delhi Capitals when CSK needed to chase 192.

As a result, the responsibility of the chase fell on MS Dhoni, who gave a glimpse of his vintage style despite a defeat. Dhoni arrived to the crease at 120-6 in 16.1 over. Smacking unbeaten 37 runs off 16 balls with 4 fours and 3 sixes, Dhoni held a strike rate of 231+ in the match.

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You have got to give Sameer Rizvi that confidence: Navjot Singh Sidhu

Answering a question by India today on Star Sports Press show, former India opener Navjot Singh Sidhu backed Sameer Rizvi as CSK finisher ahead of MS Dhoni. The reputed commentator feels CSK has to give opportunities to youngsters.

“Talent is nothing without opportunity. You have to give youngsters opportunity. One is giving an opportunity and the other thing is the player accepting the challenge. You have got to give Rizvi that confidence,” the former right-handed batter said.

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Dhoni has nothing to prove: Navjot Singh Sindhu

Sidhu, who represented Team India from 1983 to 1999 international cricket, added MS Dhoni needs to build future leaders as Dhoni is an asset and has nothing to prove.

“A drop of honey catches more flies than a gallon of vinegar. So, therefore, fitting people in their rightful place is what is most important. Dhoni is an asset, when he bats and finishes. Jadeja and Dhoni, one plus one is 11”.

“They are multiplying their strength. Dhoni has nothing to prove. The biggest strength of a leader is that he builds future leaders. He will actually unlock potential for the youngsters,” Sindhu further added.

Sidhu, who played over 50 Tests and 100 ODIs for Team India, feels that MS Dhoni is a good leader. As a result, players become stronger under his guidance.

“The same player isn’t that strong in the other team, but when he comes to Dhoni, he becomes a completely different player, how? Because a good leader is the one who walks behind him and ignites faith,” Sidhu further added.

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MS Dhoni passed captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad in IPL 2024

Meanwhile, MS Dhoni passed captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of IPL 2024. However, he has been helping the CSK opener with the captaincy. Dhoni is also playing the role of wicketkeeper for the team.

Meanwhile, CSK is all set to face Sunrisers Hyderabad in their next match of IPL 2024. The encounter takes place on Friday, April 5 at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. With 2 wins in 3 games, CSK takes the 3rd spot in IPL 2024 points table.