Former Indian captain MS Dhoni, known for his sharp insights into the game, has spoken about his appreciation for the transformation of Test cricket into a more dynamic, result-oriented format. Speaking at a promotional event in Goa, Dhoni shared his views on the strategic changes that have redefined the longest format, making it more exciting and competitive. “I love how Test cricket has become more result-oriented,” Dhoni said, addressing the shift towards a style of play that leaves fewer matches ending in draws.
Rise of Bazball: New Brand of Play
MS Dhoni expressed admiration for the aggressive, high-risk approach popularly dubbed as “Bazball,” saying that it has changed the way Test cricket is perceived and played. “You can give cricket any term you want, but what we have seen is cricket has evolved,” Dhoni commented. This aggressive brand of cricket, where teams focus on winning rather than merely drawing matches, has revitalised interest and brought fresh challenges.
“The way people are playing cricket is very different. There was a time when in ODIs something was considered a safe score; now, that same score isn’t even safe in T20s,” Dhoni observed. He pointed out that each team must adapt its approach according to its strengths. “Some teams play aggressive cricket, others stick to traditional methods. It’s essential to understand your team’s strengths and work within them.”
MS Dhoni Reflects on “Difficult Days” in Test Cricket
Reflecting on his own experience in the Test arena, Dhoni recalled the challenges of playing matches that seemed destined to end in draws. “For me, the most difficult time during a Test match was the fifth day, when you knew 100% it was going to be a draw,” he admitted. The repetitive nature of those last days was tiring, and Dhoni was candid about the frustration of going through motions with little chance of an outcome. “You think, ‘Let’s finish this and go. Why do I have to be here?’”
Test Cricket Today: Battle for Results
Dhoni believes that the new focus on achieving results over five days is a positive change for Test cricket. “Imagine telling someone who doesn’t know much about cricket that we play over five days, starting at 9:30 and ending around 5, and after all that, there’s no result. That’s not nice for the game,” he explained, adding that he’s pleased with the current format’s ability to produce more results.
Even with rain delays or shortened playing hours, MS Dhoni appreciates how modern teams still strive to produce an outcome. “Even if we’re playing only four days and one day gets washed out, you still get a result,” he said. Dhoni concluded with a sentiment for Test cricket’s future: “That’s the beauty of Test cricket, and that’s how it should stay. You want a result after five days; it shouldn’t end in a draw.”
In a game where tradition meets modernity, Dhoni’s thoughts echo the sentiments of many fans and players who welcome the shift in Test cricket’s approach to ensure every game has a meaningful outcome.
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