Image Source: AFP
[Saba Sports News] Before the showdown between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Monday, April 8, Gautam Gambhir lauded MS Dhoni’s unparalleled success as an Indian captain, describing him as the “most successful captain India will ever have.” Gambhir, who led KKR to two Indian Premier League (IPL) titles in 2012 and 2014, reminisced about the intense competition between his team and Dhoni’s CSK. This time around, they will be assuming different roles, with Gambhir serving as a mentor for KKR and Dhoni participating as a wicketkeeper-batter rather than as a captain.
Gambhir, in his conversation with Star Sports, emphasized the competitive spirit that drove him, acknowledging mutual respect but prioritizing victory above all. He admired Dhoni’s leadership, particularly highlighting his achievements with three ICC trophies, a feat Gambhir believes is unparalleled.
“I wanted to win. I am very clear in my mind. Friends, mutual respect, everything will remain. But when you are in the middle, I am captaining KKR and he is captaining CSK. If you ask him, he will probably give you the same answer. It’s about winning. Obviously, MS is the most successful captain India will ever have. I don’t think anyone can reach that level – winning 3 ICC trophies,” Gambhir shared.
Reflecting on his experiences, Gambhir enjoyed the strategic battles with Dhoni, recognizing his tactical prowess, especially in managing spinners and his never-say-die attitude. Gambhir acknowledged the threat posed by Dhoni’s presence, knowing that with Dhoni at the crease, CSK could always snatch victory, regardless of the circumstances.
“But, yes, in the IPL, enjoyed every bit of it because I knew MS had that tactical mindset. He is very good tactically. Knew how to control the spinners, how to set the fields against them and would never give up as well. He batted at No. 6 or 7, and we knew that till he was there, he could finish off the game. Even if they needed 20 runs in an over, and MS was in the middle, he could finish off that game,” Gambhir said.
Gambhir also noted the necessity to elevate his tactical approach when facing Dhoni’s CSK, understanding that Dhoni’s calm demeanor on the field belied a resilient spirit. He pointed out that matches against CSK were uniquely challenging, with victory uncertain until the final ball.
The eagerly anticipated match at a packed MA Chidambaram Stadium sees KKR entering unbeaten, with three wins in IPL 2024, while CSK looks to recover from two consecutive losses, holding four points from four games.