Cricketer turned commentator, Irfan Pathan has spilled beans on why former India and current Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni has been so dominant as a leader.
Meanwhile, CSK suffered their second defeat of the season, as they lost to Mumbai Indians (MI) by eight wickets on Saturday night. As a result, Mumbai brought two crucial points under their belt.
Batting first, Chennai posted 169 runs on the board banking on Suresh Raina (75*) and Ambati Rayadu’s (46) partnership. Rayadu continued his outstanding form as he provided an exceptional start.
Moreover, Raina’s form will be a boost for the Chennai dugout going deep into the tournament.
However, Mumbai bowlers did a brilliant job at the end to restrict Chennai within 165.
In reply, Mumbai got the perfect start with Suryakumar Yadav (44) and Evin Lewis (47) setting an ideal platform for the middle-order.
Skipper Rohit Sharma then showed his sheer brilliance – to guide his team through with an unbeaten knock of 56 runs. It will give Mumbai a sigh of relief, and they will look to bank on this going into the next game.
Although Dhoni & his boys lost the game, they have scripted a historic return. Also, Dhoni has led the team exceptionally well from the front bringing out the best.
Meanwhile, he has been in good form with the bat which has provided the CSK set up with an additional boost.
Dhoni greatest captain ever
However, before the match, Pathan revealed what makes Dhoni an excellent leader.
Speaking in the presence of the great Kapil Dev, Pathan said apart from his excellent cricketing acumen; Dhoni excels as a captain because of how comfortable he makes his players, especially the youngsters.
Pathan has played under Dhoni’s captaincy and had a great bonding with the leader.
“Anybody can go up to Dhoni freely and have a chat. Even if it’s your first day in the team, there’s no reason for you to hesitate. Dhoni makes sure he gives you respect and full attention when he’s interacting with you. Just because you’re a junior, that doesn’t mean he will not take you seriously or show disrespect. That’s what makes him so great,” said Pathan.
Meanwhile, Pathan failed to attract any bidders this season and took up the commentary role. However, he represented Gujarat Lions in the last edition of the cash-rich league.
Also read: Mumbai Indians Players Rating