‘I have learnt a lot of stuff from MS Dhoni,’ says Maheesh Theekshana about how the famous figure helped him cope with sweep shots

Maheesh Theekshana, the off-spinner for Sri Lanka, recently discussed the valuable lessons he has learnt from the legendary former Indian captain and captain of the Chennai Super Kings, MS Dhoni, ahead of the white-ball series against India.

Among the many things Theekshana learnt, he mentioned how Dhoni, from his elevated position, taught him how to counter-hit batters by using the sweep shot against him. In addition, he disclosed that although his front-on action made it possible for him to bowl more quickly, he frequently found himself swept for boundaries by hitters using the sweep shot. The shrewd spinner claimed that Dhoni’s one piece of advise was to change his length to bowl a little bit fuller. His confidence was boosted by this modification and his steady improvement of the yorker, especially towards the conclusion of the innings.

Maheesh Theekshana was quoted by Hindustan Times as saying, “I have learnt a lot from MS Dhoni, but in particular, how he helped me bowl to batters who would employ the sweep shot against me.”

They would still hit boundaries even though I would be bowling more quickly. I bowled a little bit fuller as he instructed. I also developed my yorker in this manner. I got more and more comfortable bowling in the last overs,” the determined spinner went on.

Dhoni always has a strategy, and he starts with the bowler’s strategy: Maheesh Theekshana

There are those all around the world who may have the preconceived belief that Dhoni directed bowlers’ on-field tactics and strategies. Theekshana, who has spent the last three seasons playing for the Chennai Super Kings, made it clear that wasn’t the case at all. Dhoni would give the bowlers complete freedom to carry out their own schemes first, offering advice only in the event that their first plans were unsuccessful.

“Dhoni is never without a plan. However, he follows the bowler’s strategy first, and he only offers guidance if it fails, Theekshana said.

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In the Twenty24 Premier League, the 23-year-old had a mediocre campaign, taking 10 wickets at an economy rate of 7.35 in as many matches. When facing a strong Indian batting lineup, he would be keen to increase his number of wickets taken; this would undoubtedly be a worthwhile learning experience for the young player.