In the wake of leading Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to victory in the IPL final, MS Dhoni found himself in the spotlight once again. When asked about his plans for the following year, Dhoni remained evasive, hinting that he needed ample time to make a decision and acknowledging the toll the game had taken on him.
“I have eight to nine months to decide. The small auction may occur around December, so why burden myself with that headache now?” Dhoni responded and added, “I have sufficient time to make up my mind.”
Throughout the season, Dhoni battled a knee issue, even sporting a brace after CSK’s final league game. Despite his struggles, he didn’t miss a single match, although running between the wickets proved challenging.
“Whether in playing form or sitting somewhere on the sidelines for CSK, I’ll always be there… but in what capacity, I’m unsure. Honestly, it takes a significant toll. I’ve been away from home for nearly four months. I left on January 31, finished my work, and started practicing from March 2nd or 3rd. It takes a lot, but I have ample time to decide,” Dhoni shared candidly.
Speaking about the fielding in general, he said “Considering the wicket and the conditions, you continuously adjust the field,” Dhoni revealed. “I can be quite an annoying captain, constantly shifting fielders by a foot or two here and there.
“The fielder needs to keep an eye on me. Imagine being on the field, and every two or three balls, I’m like, ‘Okay, two feet to your right, three feet to your left.’ It can be bothersome. I always rely on my gut feeling, analysing the pitch and the line, observing what’s happening. And more often than not, it pays off. The only thing I request from the fielders is to ‘keep an eye on me; if you drop a catch, there won’t be any reactions, just keep an eye on me.'”
“We strive to create an environment. Additionally, we emphasise understanding the strengths of our fast bowlers,” Dhoni explained. “Moreover, we ensure they improve in areas where they need to excel. With the new ball, they know what needs to be done..We do our best to motivate them. The support staff is always there. Ultimately, when they’re out there, they’re on their own. It’s a lonely place, but that’s where bravery and courage come into play.”