New Delhi: Former India cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been one of the strongest cricketers in the recent past. Dhoni, who has won three ICC trophies for India as captain also led Chennai Super Kings to three Indian Premier League trophies. His influence as a person among his teammates is measured from the fact more than about his cricketing front, his teammates often talk about Dhoni’s nature.
Former CSK batsman Sam Billings, who was recently recalled in the England side to play the three-match ODI series against Ireland, recalled how Dhoni helped him during his time by giving various lessons. “I absolutely loved my 2 years at CSK. The success in which the environment had consistently over the time is unmatched really, probably only Mumbai have been as consistent as CSK. To get a winners medal of the IPL is something that I really cherished,” he was quoted as saying to Cricbuzz.
The right-hander added, “For me, that experience from those great players, the overseas guys but also the homegrown Indian stars. I mean, no bigger star than MS Dhoni in terms of my role that I want to fulfill.” Billings, who has withdrawn himself from IPL 2020, so far played 17 ODIs and 26 T20Is for England team.
He also stated, “There is no one better than MS to learn from. For me, it was great to pick his brains and enjoy the environment he has created.” Billings also revealed that he and Dhoni have one thing in common. “Dhoni is a big Man United fan which really helps, as am I. He always invited me when there’s a few Man United fans around. So whenever the game was on, we used to go to his room and watch there. It was pretty cool just to talk about cricket and learn of him,” he said.
“And see how he goes about his business, whether it’s practice or games. For me, as well, my third year of captaincy at Kent, I think that’s the most incredible thing… how he talks to his players, especially the young players. They have the utmost respect and trust in him but he also trusts people and allows them to really thrive in the environment,” Billings concluded.
