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Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fast bowler Tushar Deshpande has opened up about the pivotal role MS Dhoni played in boosting his confidence ahead of the IPL 2023 season. The pacer, who faced early challenges in the league, emerged as a key player for CSK during their fifth IPL title-winning campaign, finishing as one of the team’s highest wicket-takers.
Dhoni’s Words of Encouragement
Ahead of the 2023 IPL season, Deshpande found himself under pressure to deliver, especially with CSK’s pace attack plagued by injuries. During the preparation camp at Chepauk, Deshpande had a conversation with Dhoni that proved to be transformative.
“[Dhoni told me]: ‘You have everything to succeed at the international level. But you have to be calm during your run-up. Don’t get distracted by the crowd. Just take a deep breath, stay calm, and bowl,'” Deshpande revealed in an interview with ESPNcricinfo.
These words, coming from one of cricket’s greatest leaders, had a profound impact on Deshpande. “If Mahi tells you that you have everything to be successful at the international level, that itself is an achievement,” he added.
A Challenging Start to the 2023 IPL
Deshpande’s early days in the 2023 IPL were anything but smooth. He struggled in the opening match against Gujarat Titans, going for runs and leaving the field feeling dejected. However, Dhoni’s unwavering support lifted his spirits.
“Mahi came to me and said, ‘You haven’t made any mistakes. You bowled all good balls. It was not your day today. In the next match, repeat the same.’” Deshpande recalled how Dhoni’s belief in him helped him stay positive despite the rough start.
Deshpande would go on to spearhead CSK’s pace attack alongside youngsters like Rajvardhan Hangargekar and Matheesha Pathirana. He ended the season with 21 wickets in 16 matches at an economy rate of 9.92, playing a crucial role in CSK’s success.
Staying True to His Strengths
In another instance during a net session, Deshpande remembered Dhoni questioning his decision-making after being hit for a six during a match simulation scenario. Deshpande had bowled a bouncer instead of sticking to his trusted yorker.
Dhoni’s advice was simple yet impactful: “Don’t play cricket in the mind. Yorker is a yorker, and no one can hit you.” This helped Deshpande realize the importance of trusting his skills and not overthinking his bowling.
“He was telling me we keep trying to play ahead of the game instead of staying in the present,” Deshpande explained. Dhoni also stressed the importance of fitness, especially for a fast bowler, emphasizing the need for Deshpande to focus on maintaining his physical condition.
The other thing he told me is to focus on my fitness, which is important for fast bowlers,” he added.
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Deshpande’s Journey to International Cricket
Dhoni’s advice and mentorship have paid off for Tushar Deshpande, who made his international debut for India during their tour of Zimbabwe in July 2024. He picked up a wicket on debut and was praised for his composed performance under pressure.
Deshpande continues to draw inspiration from Dhoni’s words as he looks to cement his place in both IPL and international cricket. His journey from a struggling pacer to a key player in CSK’s title run is a testament to the value of strong mentorship and the ability to perform under pressure.
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