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Wednesday, Apr 23, 2008
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Dhoni confident

CHENNAI: Mahendra Singh Dhoni said his team’s batting would have to make up for a “slight weakness” in bowling. Chennai Super Kings, he believed, had the ability to score its second successive win in the IPL.

He dwelt on the team’s commitment. “We are not one of the better fielding sides in the competition. But, our cricketers put in a lot of effort on the field at Mohali,” he said.

Dhoni said captaining a side of stars was a pleasure. “The players come from different regions and countries, and we also get to know about their culture,” he said.

He said he had no difficulty managing the Australian cricketers — India and Australia were involved in an acrimonious Test and ODI tri-series down under this season — in the side. “We were playing against each other then. We are playing together now. We all know that the Aussies play their cricket aggressively.”

On him captaining a Chennai side, Dhoni said it was a learning experience. “I was born in Uttaranchal, grew up in Jharkhand and am now playing for Chennai. I am getting to know the South Indian lifestyle.”

Shaun Pollock had words of praise for Dhoni’s captaincy. “He looks a good leader. He’s calm under pressure.”

The South African all-rounder highlighted Sanath Jayasuriya’s value in the line-up. He also thought highly of Dwayne Bravo’s all-round ability. — Special Correspondent

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