Wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik started off his international career four months ahead of MS Dhoni in 2004, but the former is in awe of the veteran cricketer for his dominance behind the stumps. Karthik reiterated he has been trying to inculcate what Dhoni has been doing on the field, adding there has been a lot to learn from the prominent face of the Men in Blue.
The 37-year-old Dhoni, who has been best in business as a team leader further dictated terms with his bat following a not-so-good show against Bangladesh in December 2004.
Dhoni excels in pressure situations:
But the way, Dhoni backed himself thereon has been a spotlight for him as well as Team India. He has soaked in pressure to emerge as one of the best finishers of the cricketing world in the ODI fold.
“The ability of MS to absorb pressure and then come out triumphs is amazing, a trait I’ve tried to inculcate,” Karthik told Hindustan Times.
Moreover, the 32-year-old Karthik revealed Dhoni had helped him in identifying the weakness of a bowler. He added one should respect the bowlers who are doing well but target those who are finding it difficult on their day.
“See one of the biggest lessons I’ve learnt from MS is to identify bowlers. There will be bowlers who will be having a good day, so it is important to give them their due. At the same time, you have put pressure on other bowlers who are not having an entirely good outing.
Dhoni unbelievable as a ‘keeper: Karthik
Earlier, Karthik emerged as an obvious choice for India for the wicket-keeping spot, but with the introduction of Dhoni, Karthik didn’t get many games to play.
Interestingly, Dhoni’s fitness has set him apart, as his impact behind the stumps further went on to grab eyeballs with his sharp reflexes.
While lauding the efforts of Dhoni, Karthik believes he is technically strong while citing some of his traits. He reiterated it’s a bit difficult to imitate Dhoni on that front, who is a class in itself.
“When it comes to keeping, well, isn’t he unbelievable? Some of the stumpings he pulls off are stunning, to say the least. I don’t think it is easily replicable, it is one of the kind. Look at his head position, his balance, all these technical things are so perfect, and there is so much to learn,” Karthik added.
Many are in awe of Dhoni for his remarkable role while donning the gloves. He recently becomes first-ever India gloveman to effect 400 dismissals in the One-day International (ODI) cricket.
Of late, Karthik has played some role to finish off things, but he believes there’s plenty to learn from Dhoni. Karthik has featured in 91 ODIs, 30 T20Is and 26 Tests, whereas, Dhoni played 338 ODIs, 96 T20Is and 90 Tests, so far.