Sri Lankan spinner Maheesh Theekshana recently opened up about how legendary India captain MS Dhoni helped him counter batters who used the slog sweep against him. Theekshana will be in action in the upcoming three-match T20I series against India starting from July 27. He has emerged as one of the rising stars from Sri Lanka with his impressive performances in the limited-overs format.
The 23-year-old spinner shared insights into the valuable lessons he learned from Dhoni while playing under his leadership for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). According to Theekshana, Dhoni’s advice on handling batters who played the sweep shot was crucial in his development as a bowler.
“I have learned a lot of things from MS Dhoni”: Theekshana Revealed
According to Theekshana’s revelation, Dhoni suggested that Theekshana bowl a bit fuller to counter the sweep shot, a strategy that not only reduced the number of boundaries but also helped him develop a lethal yorker.
“I have learned a lot of things from MS Dhoni, but in particular, how he helped me bowl to batters who would employ the sweep shot against me. With my action, I would bowl quicker, but they would still hit boundaries. He asked me to bowl a bit fuller. That’s also how I developed my yorker. I gradually gained confidence bowling in the death overs. Dhoni always has a plan. But he goes to the bowler’s plan first and only if it does not work, does he guide you,” Theekshana told Sony Sports Network.
Theekshana’s journey in the IPL has been noteworthy. He has played 27 matches for CSK, picking up 25 wickets at an average of 31.88 and an economy of 7.66, with his best figures being 4/33. His performance in the recently concluded Lanka Premier League (LPL) was also commendable, where he took ten wickets from ten innings at an average of 29.40 and an economy of 7.35.
The young spinner will be eager to continue his brilliant form in the upcoming T20I series against India and help Sri Lanka secure their second T20I series win against the Men in Blue. However, the Sri Lankan team faces a challenge as they have been hit by injuries ahead of the series. Seamers Nuwan Thushara and Dushmantha Chameera have been ruled out, which could impact their bowling attack.
Theekshana’s experiences under Dhoni’s mentorship have clearly played a significant role in his development. His ability to adapt and improve his bowling techniques under pressure highlights the importance of having a seasoned leader like Dhoni. As Theekshana prepares for the series against India, his learnings from Dhoni will undoubtedly be a crucial factor in his performance.
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