Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batting coach Michael Hussey has expressed his desire for the legendary Mahendra Singh Dhoni to continue his association with the team for a few more years. Despite stepping down as captain just before the start of the 2024 IPL season, Dhoni remains an integral part of CSK, both on and off the field.
The 42-year-old Dhoni handed over the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad, surprising fans and the cricketing world alike. Hussey, speaking on ESPN's "Around the Wicket" show, highlighted Dhoni's ongoing contributions and his hope that Dhoni will continue to be involved with CSK.
"We are hoping he does keep going. He is still batting so well. He does prepare well - he gets into the camp very early and hits a lot of balls. He has been in good touch all season really," said Hussey. His comments underline Dhoni's dedication and the high standards he maintains, even after undergoing knee surgery post the last season.
Hussey also pointed out that managing Dhoni's workload has been crucial, given his recent surgery. "That [knee surgery] is why we have had to manage him a little bit, and he only comes in at the back end. But, there has been no one better in being able to come in and hit the ball so cleanly from ball one than MS. He has been phenomenal," Hussey added.
Dhoni, who has led CSK to five IPL titles, has adopted a lower batting position this season, often coming in at number eight and facing fewer deliveries. Despite this, his impact remains significant, providing the finishing touches in crucial moments.
Reflecting on Dhoni's transition out of the captaincy, Hussey shared that it was handled with the characteristic calmness and foresight that Dhoni is known for. "MS sort of announced that he was not going to be attending the pre-tournament captains' meeting. And we're like, 'Oh, no. What's going on?'. He said Ruturaj was going to be captain from then on. So, it was a little bit of a shock to start with, but it has been managed really well," Hussey recounted.
Under Gaikwad's leadership, CSK have performed admirably, currently sitting third on the points table and poised for a playoff berth. Hussey praised Gaikwad's calm demeanour and leadership qualities, noting, "He has done a great job. He has been really calm and measured on the field. He will just get better and better. The more he does it and the more support we keep around him. The pleasing thing is, it has not affected his batting at all either."
Dhoni's presence and guidance during this transition phase have been invaluable, according to Hussey. The mentorship role Dhoni has taken on is seen as crucial for the team's ongoing success and Gaikwad's development as a leader.
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(With PTI inputs)