Pat Cummins doesn’t want to try and ‘outsmart’ MS Dhoni as he discloses how difficult it is to win IPL title

Pat Cummins wants to win the 2024 IPL for the fans, but knows the impact of each loss.

Pat Cummins doesn’t want to try and ‘outsmart’ MS Dhoni as he discloses how difficult it is to win IPL title

MS Dhoni and Pat Cummins (Images via Imago)

On 5th April, Sunrisers Hyderabad played against Chennai Super Kings at home. It was Pat Cummins’ 4th match as a captain in the shortest format, winning only two matches so far. Despite the two losses, the team looks strong and capable of winning more.

Ahead of their match with CSK, Pat Cummins was interviewed by Star Sports, where he discussed his plans. He knew he had to beat the leadership and tactics of MS Dhoni, but knew he couldn’t outsmart him. 

YouTube video
My main job as a captain is to get the best out of our guys, so obviously, you look at the opposition little bit and see what they're doing, but I don't think I'm gonna try and outsmart someone like MSD, you try and play your best, try to bring the best out of the guys, and hopefully it works.
Pat Cummins on Star Sports

He also spoke about how tough the T20 format is, admitting winning the IPL is tough. Cummins said he wants to keep the fans happy, but knows the format can give tough losses. Regardless of the losses, he claims he wants a shot at the IPL title. 

Simon Doull unimpressed by MS Dhoni’s cameo against Delhi Capitals 

On 31st March, MS Dhoni batted for the first time in the 2024 IPL, playing an entertaining 37* of 16 against Delhi Capitals. His innings saw four boundaries and three sixes, but it also saw Dhoni refusing to take runs. It was also CSK’s first loss of the season.

MS Dhoni
MS Dhoni (Image via Imago)

During the last few overs, Dhoni had chances to take singles on various occasions, but refused. He decided that he needed to stay on strike, not letting Ravindra Jadeja play a single ball. Simon Doull who works as a commentator in the IPL and an analyst on Cricbuzz, was not impressed by Dhoni’s refusals. 

I know there was a lot of hoopa about Dhoni's innings but he blocked a lot of balls. He faced a lot of dots and then when he started to not take runs, I could not believe what I was watching. I know he is the great MS Dhoni but it was a poor call. It was a really poor call not to take those runs.
Simon Doull on Cricbuzz

Doull believed that CSK still had a chance to win the game when Dhoni came in to bat, but thought the Indian legend tried to get some form. He called it a poor look, disagreeing with Dhoni’s approach to the situation. 

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