Former Australian fast bowler Brett Lee praised MS Dhoni, saying the Chennai Super Kings captain believes in his teammates and commits to the XI he plays, most of the time in the Indian Premier League. . Lee’s comment came after Shane Watson broke an unbeaten 83 to shake off his poor form and help CSK beat Kings XI Punjab by 10 wickets in Dubai on Sunday.
Shane Watson had a string of low scores and appeared to be out of touch at the 2020 IPL. Even after a 6-day break, CSK were unable to get their home in order when Sunrisers Hyderabad handed them their third straight loss of the season at Dubai on Friday.
When more changes were expected, MS Dhoni kept the same XI playing since Friday for their decisive game against KXIP, which helped raise some eyebrows. In the end, CSK shot a 179-run target with 14 balls to spare. More importantly, CSK did not lose a wicket when Shane Watson and Faf du Plessis posted 181 for the opening stand, the highest association for the three-time champions in the history of the competition.
“The best thing about MS Dhoni is that he believes in his players, he is committed to the XI who are there. Also backs 13-14
they are there if there is an injury. It is the XI in which he believes, commits himself to the team. They played very well and, as they say, the lions will sleep quite well tonight, “Brett Lee told Star Sports on Sunday.
Lee shed light on how his former Australian teammate changed his focus, trying to hit at the V instead of going for
cross shots early in his innings. Watson needed just 53 balls for an unbeaten 83 when he reached 11 limits and 3 sixes. Du Plessis finished with an 87 undefeated from 53 balls.
Hats off to MSD for giving Watson that opportunity and supporting his teammate. Watto came out and totally dominated him. The way he went down the line and didn’t cross the line in the last few games, he crossed the line. When he’s in shape, he can do it, but Shane Watson, tonight, was on fire, ”Lee said.
CSK don’t panic, that’s why you win titles: Swann
Meanwhile, former England player Graeme Swann said the entire CSK team leadership should be given credit for showing faith in Watson.
“(The endorsement) is not just from the captain, despite the fact that MS Dhoni is a huge figure. But it comes from the coach
and the whole squad. Knowing that it will come in handy, Shane Watson always comes in handy.
“Remember that 2 years ago, he was almost useless in the first part of the IPL but a brilliant hundred in the final. They
he stayed with it and is of very good quality. That’s why they win so many titles. They’re sensible and they don’t panic, ”Swann said.
With the 10 wicket victory, CSK dropped from last place on the 8-team points table. They are now sixth with 4 points of
5 matches.
