Dhoni Adjusted Training to Manage Workload, Says Sridhar

Former Indian fielding coach R. Sridhar revealed on Sunday that MS Dhoni adopted a unique strategy regarding his wicketkeeping duties. According to Sridhar, the iconic captain ceased regular wicketkeeping practice sessions quite early in his international career, around 2007.

Speaking with the Indian media, Sridhar clarified that Dhoni’s choice was a deliberate attempt to handle the physical strain of continuous international cricket.

Sridhar stated, “MS Dhoni discontinued wicketkeeping practice after approximately eight or nine years of international cricket. Before 2007, as he was establishing himself, he dedicated significant effort to honing his wicketkeeping skills and developing a highly effective technique.”

Sridhar further added that by 2007, Dhoni had cemented his position in the team across all formats and was soon leading India in all three.

“He acknowledged that once he began participating in all three formats, the pressure became overwhelming. His fingers were taking a toll, prompting him to intelligently reduce his training load.”

Sridhar noted that instead of comprehensive wicketkeeping drills, Dhoni transitioned to focusing on reaction-based exercises to maintain his agility. This adjustment enabled him to preserve his signature speed and effectiveness behind the wickets.

“He persisted with reaction drills, which kept him sharp and his glove work exceptionally quick. ‘Not practicing’ isn’t entirely accurate, but he reduced the intensity due to the demanding schedule,” Sridhar elaborated.

It’s worth noting that Sridhar collaborated with Dhoni during his tenure from August 2014 to November 2021 and initially met him at the National Cricket Academy in 2011.