NEW DELHI: While Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s recent decision to step down as team captain of the Chennai Super Kings came as a surprise, Michael Hussey, the team’s batting coach, remains hopeful that the iconic player will continue to dazzle on the field for a few more years.
Speaking on ESPN’s Around the Wicket show, Hussey expressed his optimism about Dhoni’s future, highlighting his exceptional form and dedication. “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,” Hussey said.
Acknowledging Dhoni’s recent knee surgery, Hussey emphasized the importance of managing his workload effectively. “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,” he added. Reflecting on Dhoni’s transition from captaincy to a mentor role, Hussey shared insights into the process. “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,” Hussey explained.
Despite the initial shock, Hussey praised Ruturaj Gaikwad’s leadership and performance. “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,” Hussey said, commending Gaikwad’s resilience and skill.
As the 2024 season progresses, Dhoni’s future remains uncertain, with Hussey acknowledging that the final decision rests with the cricketing legend himself.
