Deepak Chahar admits learning from MS Dhoni: Chennai Super Kings fast bowler opened up on learning from the legendary cricketer.
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Indian Premier League defending champions Chennai Super Kings fast bowler Deepak Chahar has fast-tracked himself into franchise’s leading fast bowler on the back of consistent performances since IPL 2018.
In 17 IPL matches (excluding the last one) since the last year, Chahar has picked up 15 wickets at an average of 26.33, an economy rate of 6.91 and a strike rate of 22.87.
The fact that he predominantly bowls in the powerplay speaks highly about his control. It is also these number which push his case above the likes of senior bowlers like Mohit Sharma and Shardul Thakur.
In the recently concluded match against Kolkata Knight Riders, Chahar’s bowling figures of 4-0-20-3 made him the pick of Super Kings’ bowlers. Having dismissed Chris Lynn (0), Nitish Rana (0) and Robin Uthappa (11) in the powerplay, the 26-year old cricketer was declared the Man of the Match award for running through KKR’s top-order.
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Speaking during the post-match presentation ceremony, Chahar didn’t hide away from the fact that he worked on his slower balls due to Chennai’s sluggish surface. “I knew we were going to play a lot of matches in Chennai this year so I worked on slower balls,” Chahar was quoted as saying.
In a recent interview with TimesofIndia.com, Chahar had disclosed captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s reaction after he bowled a couple of no-balls followed by giving just five runs in the next six balls against Kings XI Punjab. On being asked about planning with Dhoni prior to the match, Chahar denied the same but laid emphasis on learning from the legendary cricketer.
“We don’t plan a lot, but we spend a lot of time together and he’s been helpful. Now Bravo is injured and i’m getting opportunities to bowl at the death,” Chahar said.
