Dhoni’s Army is back with a bang (published)

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After a double-whitewash, it takes a lot to regroup, strategise, prepare and motivate oneself to perform against the same opponents again. Team India’s task was cut-out after its dismal performance in England. A few blessings that came India’s way were a month’s break between the two series and the fact that the current series was being held in its backyard. Not only did the one month interval come as an opportunity to re-strategise but also to unwind from the unfairly gruelling schedule that the team had been subjected to.

On 2nd April, 2011, India had lifted the most coveted trophy in cricket. The Captain hit the winning blow into the stands and elevated Team India to World Champion status. Victories, as big as they may be, fade away as soon as the next battle ensues. Despite putting in a fighting performance against the Windies, even World Champions can do only so much with minimal rest and practice. To perform in the vastly distinct conditions in England with only one 3-day practice match was a recipe for disaster, which is exactly what unfolded in both the Test and ODI series.

However, Dhoni has stepped up to the plate with resplendent fervour and led from the front in this series. His performance with the bat has been instrumental in India’s series win. He is the only specialist batsman who is yet to be dismissed in the series. He is the third highest run-getter in the team, considering the fact that he comes in at number 6. Dhoni seems to have become the wall that the English bowlers are unable to bore through. In addition to his superior performance and leadership skills, India has looked a rejuvenated unit, with well-deserved rest and the infusion of new and exciting talent. Unlike the past, winning a series or two does not make this unit kick up its heels and become complacent. The abundance of talent on waitlist, a more transparent selection system and a gifted skipper has given Team India the licence to be hungry for more.

Dhoni’s leadership skills have always been lauded. The unorthodox field placements, perplexing bowling changes at crucial junctures and unexpected shuffling of the batting order have been a hallmark of the great captain. He simply does things differently, to great effect. Dhoni’s performance in the current series has only enhanced his reputation. He played with a depleted bowling unit (without Zaheer Khan, his leading wicket-taker in the World Cup), a demoralised team and the added pressure of winning the ‘Payback Series’ comprehensively.

Under Dhoni’s leadership, Team India has quickly regained its footing and gone back to its winning ways. Dhoni is not one to show emotion or excitement on the field. However, on hitting the winning runs in the third ODI, even he pumped his fist and celebrated in his own, subdued way. Although he quickly went back into his another-day-at-the-office mode, it is clear that winning this series comprehensively means everything to Captain Dhoni and Team India.

Click to view Dhoni's winning shot

With an unassailable 3-0 lead, the damage has been done. Team India will now be looking to go in for the kill and seal the series with a 5-0 whitewash. It will be an uphill task to stop Dhoni’s Army – a rejuvenated unit with an inspiring leader, who is on a mission!