Lee and Graeme Swann lauded Dhoni's captaincy.
Former Australia fast bowler and commentator Brett Lee have heaped rich praise on Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni for showing complete faith in his XI irrespective of results in the ongoing 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the UAE.
The CSK led by Dhoni entered into the 18th match of the IPL 2020 after three successive defeats in the ongoing tournament, however, not for much surprise, it was a one-sided affair at Dubai International Stadium on Sunday (4th October) as the franchise secured the much-needed victory over the KXIP on the back of fabulous batting display from veteran stars Shane Watson and Faf du Plessis.
Both Watson (83*) and Du Plessis (87*) set the stage on the fire with their blistering batting in Dubai as they brutally hit the KXIP bowlers to chase down a 179-run target with remarkable ease inside 14 over.
In the enthralling encounter, Watson cracked 11 fours and 3 sixes in his 53-ball unbeaten knock while du Plessis hit 11 fours and a six in 53-balls unbeaten knock to help CSK beat KXIP by 10 wickets in Dubai.
Following the Player of the Match display from Watson, Lee lauded Dhoni for backing and supporting his teammates and lauded his former Aussie all-rounder for his incredible batting show against the KXIP.
He further said “hats off to MSD” for showing faith in veteran Watson while pointing out a great thing about Indian cricket legend and is his belief in his team and players.
Lee told Star Sports: “The great thing about MS Dhoni is he believes his players, commits to the XI that is there. He also backs the 13-14 that are there if there’s an injury. It’s the XI he believes in, commits to the team. They played so well and as they say, the lions will sleep pretty well tonight.”
He further added, “Hats off to MSD for providing Watson with that opportunity and back his teammate. Watto came out and totally dominated it. The way he went down the line and didn’t go across the line the last few games he went across the line. When he is in form, he can do it but Shane Watson, tonight, was on fire.”
Meanwhile, former England off-spinner Graeme Swann who is also in India with commentary panel is agreed with Lee but feels the entire CSK management should be credited for showing faith in Watson.
He added, “Backing isn’t just from the captain, even though it’s MS who is a huge figure. But it comes from the coach and the whole squad. Knowing that he will come good, Watson always comes good.”
Swann signed off by saying, “Remember 2 years ago, he was next to useless in the first part of the IPL but a brilliant hundred in the final. They stuck with him and it’s very good quality. It’s why they win so many titles. They are sensible and they don’t panic.”