Mitchell Santner speak on the reaction of bowlers to some of MS Dhoni’s decisions
New Zealand all-rounder Mitchell Santner has commented as team captains on the similarity between MS Dhoni and Kane Williamson. Mitchell Santner has claimed that Dhoni and Williamson have a lot of similarities as their on-field approach is very similar to one another.
Santner was purchased by the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL 2018 auction for Rs 50 Lakh. He played four matches for CSK in IPL 2019 and had some important all-round efforts in their run to the final. On the other hand, he also participated under Williamson’s captaincy in the ICC 2019 Cricket World Cup representing New Zealand.
Santner enjoyed playing under the captaincy of Dhoni and found the veteran wicket-keeper batsman a leader who respects his instincts. Dhoni is known for his calm and disciplined temperament even in the most pressing situations for his bold decisions, which always paid for both CSK and India with rich dividends.
Speaking on a live Instagram session with CSK with sports producer Rupha Ramani, Santner said MS Dhoni is the chattier captain of the two, despite his role behind the wickets. He said both have the characteristics of remaining unphased under pressure. Still, Dhoni is the chattier captain because he is also the side’s wicket-keeper, which allows him to give the bowlers instructions.
Stressing that Dhoni is a ‘very instinctive’ captain, Santner said the decisions taken by the CSK captain make you think a little bit about it before helping to get the desired results. On the other hand, Santner said Williamson had his set plans but never let him get the better of the situation.
Santner then explained how often the bowlers are shocked by field changes from Dhoni, but most of the time, the actions of the CSK captain pay off. He also said that Dhoni and Williamson like to have plans laid out and properly implement them.
