The Hindu : Sport / Cricket : ‘Dhoni will be a strong leader’

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Wednesday, Sep 26, 2007
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‘Dhoni will be a strong leader’

Cairns sees traces of Fleming in Dhoni
He feels that the Twenty20 version is here to stay

CHENNAI: Former Kiwi Test star Chris Cairns sees in Mahendra Singh Dhoni traces of former New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming, who is widely regarded as one of the best captains.

“Dhoni is calm and collected. Fleming was consistent with his attitude, not given to extreme reactions. Dhoni will be a strong leader for India.”

Cairns was speaking at a press conference held to launch the third edition of Lotte Superskills, featuring 15 cricketers from across the Test-playing spectrum; the event involves their participation in a multi-event cricketing battle over two days.

“Captaining in Tests might be difficult for a wicket-keeper, but if anyone can do it, it’s Dhoni,” Cairns said.

Great spectacle

Twenty20, he said, was a great spectacle — “It’s here to stay,” although ICC’s corporate commitments will ensure one-day cricket continues to be played. “The chances of injuries in Twenty20 will be lesser, and that’s an advantage.”

But Test cricket, Cairns asserted, was still the strongest indicator of technique and character.

“To a big degree, luck is involved in Twenty20,” he said. “That said, India and Pakistan fielded well. This young Indian team is dynamic. Yuvraj, Pathan and Harbhajan were excellent.

“India beat Australia in the semifinals and deserved to win. I congratulate them.” — Special Correspondent

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