Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni has left a massive impact on the game with his leadership and performances in pressure situations.
Not only the Indian players, but cricketers from around the world aspire to play under his captaincy in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Among the many lucky players, former South African captain Faf du Plessis is also the one who has the privilege of playing under Dhoni at CSK.
Du Plessis was a key member of the CSK franchise from 2011 until he left the side on a winning note in 2021. He may have parted ways with the Super Kings family in the IPL, but was signed by Joburg Super Kings ahead of the inaugural edition of SA20 last year.
Addressing a press conference ahead of the second season of SA20, Faf du Plessis recalled the experience of playing under Dhoni’s captaincy and Stephen Fleming’s mentorship.
"Firstly, it was great to be part of that dressing room as a young guy. Probably my biggest learning curve was being fortunate enough to be there under Stephen Fleming and MS Dhoni really at the start of my initial journey. Just to see the big guns do things, it was great to learn from them. During my first season, I was just sitting and asking questions and observing them," Du Plessis said.
Du Plessis further said he learnt by watching Dhoni that it's not possible to copy someone else's style, before hailing the latter’s ability to remain calm and composed under pressure.
"Also, by playing under some great leaders, you also get to understand that it's really important to do things that work for you. It's not possible to copy different styles all the time," he added.
"MS is Captain Cool, as they call him. He is always very calm under pressure. So it's always important that under pressure or when the stakes are a bit more higher, you remain relaxed and it makes a big difference to the bowling attack, especially. Very lucky to have played under him," he remarked.
MS Dhoni, who led CSK to a record-equalling fifth IPL title last year, will return to action during the 2024 edition of IPL. He underwent knee surgery soon after the completion of IPL 2023 and has made a good recovery so far.
