MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh changed the concept of chasing in ODIs – Ajit Agarkar

Former Indian fast bowler Ajit Agarkar stated MS Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh changed the concept of chasing in ODIs. Dhoni and Yuvraj made a successful pair in the ODIs for the Indian team and finished many matches on a high. Agarkar recalled two partnerships between Dhoni and Yuvraj, which laid down the foundation of their success.

Meanwhile, MS Dhoni had scored a fine knock of 183 runs while chasing the total of 299 runs against Sri Lanka in Jaipur. On the other hand, Yuvraj and MS Dhoni were at their best when they were chasing a competitive target of 289 runs in Lahore in 2006 against Pakistan.

Dhoni had scored an unbeaten knock of 72 runs off just 46 balls whereas Yuvraj scored an unbeaten knock of 79 runs from 89 balls. The pair added a fine alliance of 102 runs to take their team home by five wickets against the arch-rivals.

MS Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh batted together in 67 ODI innings in which they scored a total of 3105 runs at an impressive average of 51.75.

Agarkar added that the other teams started to bowl first after winning the toss. The Indian team also went on to win 17 ODIs matches on the trot while chasing, and 15 of those wins came under the leadership of former skipper Rahul Dravid. Dhoni and Yuvraj played a crucial role in that streak of wins for the Indian team.

“Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh changed the concept of chasing in ODIs. They were so good at it that after their success, other teams also started to field first on winning the toss.”

“His 183 not out (145 balls) versus Sri Lanka at Jaipur (2005) and the chase at Lahore (ODI vs Pakistan, 2006)—Sri Lanka had posted a massive total (298/4) and Dhoni batted at No. 3 and won it. The atmosphere in the dressing room went crazy when he started smashing sixes (10). At Lahore too, Pakistan had posted a very good total (288/8) and their bowlers were in fine rhythm. Dhoni finished it off (72* off 46 balls) with a big partnership with Yuvraj.”

Both MS Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh were match-winners for the Indian team and took Indian cricket to great heights. Both of them also shared a great camaraderie with each other and batted with great success. Yuvraj and Dhoni had a great game sense and their ability to find the boundaries at will, helped them become great chasers in the ODI format.

Dhoni finished his ODI career with an average of 50.57 which goes to show his consistency. The wicket-keeper batsman remained unbeaten on 84 occasions in the 50-overs version.