Unorthodox Dhoni shows his method of big hitting

On Saturday, the former captain sent a few deliveries into the stands off a bowling machine at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium.

Published : Jul 22, 2017 21:47 IST , Chennai

M. S. Dhoni sends one to the stands.
M. S. Dhoni sends one to the stands.
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M. S. Dhoni sends one to the stands.

There have been a lot of talks about M. S. Dhoni’s waning big-hitting abilities but the 36-year old is still one of the cleanest hitters of the cricket ball. On Saturday, the former India skipper showed what he can do by sending a few deliveries into the stands - albeit batting against a bowling machine - and gave a sneak peak into his method of big hitting.

“I try to watch the ball and go against the orthodox form of cricket which says hold the bat lightly. I try to hold it a bit firmly and I don't look to hit big sixes. What I look for is a good connection. I hit big sixes in practice but in the matches, it is about clearing and hence it is more flat. I don't get lot of elevation.”

When asked about the impact of power hitting and Twenty20 cricket, Dhoni said, “I think more than power, guys have bigger heart. They are willing to take the challenge. Be it the first or last delivery of the game, if it is in their area, they can clear and that is most critical.”

“That is what T20 has brought in, be it in Test or even ODI cricket. I think the approach of the player has changed and people are looking to score more and more runs. They want to get results by playing aggressive and more expressive cricket.”

Dhoni will next be seen in action in the ODI series against Sri Lanka and the wicketkeeper said he will be focussing on working on his fitness over the next one month.

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