CSK Batting Coach Michael Hussey Breaks Silence on MS Dhoni's Retirement Rumours
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MS Dhoni likely to retire after IPL 2023 [AP Photos]
In the midst of uncertainties surrounding the potential retirement of the iconic Chennai Super Kings' captain, MS Dhoni, the team's batting coach, Mike Hussey, has expressed his viewpoint on the matter. Hussey, who had the privilege of playing alongside Dhoni in the past, has contradicted speculations and believes that the esteemed cricketer may continue donning the yellow jersey.
At 41, Dhoni finds himself in the twilight of his illustrious career, and numerous pundits have predicted that the 16th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) could mark his final season in the esteemed league. However, Hussey asserts that the skipper's current form suggests otherwise, leaving him perplexed as to why Dhoni should not prolong his tenure beyond the ongoing season.
During a pre-match conference, Hussey emphasized that the matter of whether this IPL season would be Dhoni's last remains unspoken among the team. He clarified that only Dhoni himself knows the answer to that question, and the coaching staff is unaware of his intentions. The Australian further praised the CSK skipper's current form, noting that the skipper is displaying exceptional batting skills by hitting sixes and successfully finishing games.
"That is the thing we have not spoken about. Whether he is playing his last IPL or not only he knows. We have no idea. He is hitting sixes and finishing off games. From my point of view as a batting coach, he is still batting really well. He is still motivated to keep coming into the training and working on his game, he is hitting the ball well,” said Hussey.
Furthermore, the former CSK opener pointed out the explosive batter's ability to light up the innings with his batting prowess and effectively conclude matches. He emphasized that Dhoni still possesses the remarkable skill of hitting sixes, which has been a trademark of his game throughout his career.
“We have seen him lighting up the innings and finish things off really well. He has still got that six-hitting ability. So, while he is enjoying it and still contributing to the team, then there is no reason why he cannot keep going, maybe for another 5 years (chuckles)... we do not know it is all up to MS,” added the erstwhile cricketer.
Despite getting limited chances with the bat in the current season, Dhoni has consistently demonstrated his magnificent finishing prowess, scoring 98 runs from 12 matches at a staggering strike rate of 196, further highlighting his impact on the game.
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