Kolkata Knight Riders Vice-Captain Venkatesh Iyer Recalls Strategic Move by MS Dhoni
During a recent interview, Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer shared an interesting anecdote about a tactical move made by legendary cricketer MS Dhoni during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 season. Iyer, who was playing for a different team at the time, recounted how Dhoni, leading the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), placed a fielder in an unconventional short third position to dismiss him.
Learning from Legends
After being acquired by KKR for a hefty sum of Rs 23.75 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction, Iyer has been named the vice-captain of the team. Despite not being retained by his previous franchise, KKR aggressively bid for him to bring him back to the squad. In the previous season, Iyer showcased his talent by scoring 370 runs in 13 innings at an impressive average of 46.25, including four half-centuries.
Reflecting on his interaction with Dhoni, Iyer mentioned, “Dhoni took out a fielder from deep square leg and placed him at short third, slightly away from the usual spot. The next ball, I hit straight into short third’s hands.”
Understanding the Strategy
Following his dismissal for nine runs off four balls in the match against CSK, Iyer approached Dhoni to inquire about the strategic field placement. Dhoni explained that he analyzed bat angles and shot directions to predict where Iyer would likely hit the ball. “His reading of angles is just out of the world, and he knew that if I hit this shot, it has to go in that direction, so he had a fielder put there. This is real captaincy: understanding what a batter is doing,” Iyer remarked.
Highlighting Dhoni’s tactical acumen, Iyer added, “That was the cunning of Dhoni. I could have waited for a couple of balls, but no, the next ball, I hit it there and it just happened. The cameras showed the exact picture of how the field changed and the very next ball I hit there.”
Upcoming IPL Season
As KKR gears up for the IPL 2025 season, they are set to kick off their campaign against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on March 22 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Ajinkya Rahane, who was bought for Rs 1.5 crore in the mega auction, will lead the team for the first time.
Having secured their third IPL title in 2024 by defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the final, KKR will face CSK on April 11 in Chennai, with a rematch scheduled for May 6 at home. With this victory, KKR joined the elite ranks of Mumbai Indians (MI) and CSK as the only teams with three or more IPL titles.
As the excitement builds for the upcoming season, fans are eager to see how KKR, under the leadership of Rahane and Iyer’s guidance, will continue their winning streak and aim for another successful campaign in the IPL.
Strategic Mind of MS Dhoni
The incident shared by Venkatesh Iyer sheds light on the strategic brilliance of MS Dhoni, known for his astute captaincy and ability to read the game like few others. Dhoni’s attention to detail and understanding of player tendencies allowed him to make precise decisions that often turned the tide in CSK’s favor. This anecdote showcases how a small adjustment in fielding placement can yield significant results, highlighting the importance of strategic thinking in cricket.
It also underscores the importance of learning from experienced players like Dhoni, who have a wealth of knowledge and insights to offer to younger cricketers. By observing and engaging with legends of the game, players like Iyer can enhance their own understanding of the sport and develop their tactical acumen, ultimately improving their performance on the field.
Leadership Roles in IPL
Being named the vice-captain of KKR is a significant milestone in Venkatesh Iyer’s career, indicating the trust and confidence the team management has in his abilities. As a young all-rounder with immense potential, Iyer’s leadership role showcases his growth and maturity as a player. Alongside Ajinkya Rahane, who will lead the team in the upcoming IPL season, Iyer’s presence as the vice-captain adds depth to KKR’s leadership group.
With Rahane’s experience and Iyer’s dynamism, KKR boasts a balanced leadership duo that can guide the team through the challenges of a high-pressure tournament like the IPL. Their partnership on and off the field will be crucial in steering KKR towards another successful campaign and maintaining their winning momentum.
Anticipation for IPL 2025
As KKR prepares to embark on their IPL 2025 journey, the stakes are higher than ever following their triumph in the previous season. With a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, KKR’s roster is poised to make a strong statement in the upcoming matches. The anticipation among fans is palpable as they await the showdowns against formidable opponents like CSK and RCB.
The clash between KKR and CSK, especially given the history between the two teams and the strategic encounter between Iyer and Dhoni, promises to be a captivating spectacle for cricket enthusiasts. The rivalry between the teams adds an extra layer of excitement and intensity to the matches, making them must-watch events for IPL fans.
Continued Success for KKR
With the guidance of seasoned campaigners like Rahane and the emerging talent of players like Iyer, KKR is well-positioned to continue their winning ways in the IPL. The team’s recent success has elevated their status in the league, solidifying their reputation as a powerhouse franchise. As they set their sights on further glory in the IPL 2025 season, KKR’s fans can look forward to an enthralling display of cricketing prowess and strategic maneuvers on the field.
In conclusion, the anecdote shared by Venkatesh Iyer not only provides insight into the tactical acumen of MS Dhoni but also highlights the importance of strategic thinking and learning from seasoned players in cricket. With the upcoming IPL season on the horizon, KKR’s fans are eager to witness the team’s continued success under the leadership of Rahane and Iyer, as they strive to add another chapter to their storied IPL legacy.
