MS Dhoni is a special player and a special captain: Moeen Ali

Ahead of the 17th edition of the Indian Premier League, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) all-rounder Moeen Ali Moeen Ali extolled the virtues of MS Dhoni, describing him as a special player and a special captain. Notably, under Dhoni's leadership, Chennai has won the IPL on five occasions (2010, 2011, 2018, 2020, 2023) and the CLT20 twice (2010, 2014) and is regarded as one of the most successful captains in the history of cricket. 

Ali also lauded Dhoni's tactical prowess, underscoring that even when facing challenges with team composition, the keeper-batsman consistently maintains the possibility of winning. The English cricketer emphasized his thrill as a teammate to share the dressing room with someone known for their strategic prowess.

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“Everyone knows that Dhoni is a special player and a special captain. He is a very good guy. I have played three seasons but I don't know what he is going to come up with. His strategic persona is really good. It is exciting as a player - what role he has for you. When you are playing for CSK with Dhoni as the captain, whether the team is weak or strong on paper, you always have a chance of winning,” Ali said in an interview with ESPNcricinfo.

I think we have a great chance in this T20 World Cup: Ali

The 36-year-old has stated that England have a brilliant chance in defending the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is slated to begin on June 1. He added that the Three Lions have learned quite a few lessons from the last ODI World Cup and will play better cricket in the marquee tournament. He revealed that the team has made some modifications since the last World Cup, which will help them compete in a much healthier manner in the competition which will take place in the USA and the West Indies.

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“It will be silly not to (if they would take lessons from the ODI World Cup). I think we have learned a lot. I think we were expecting to do it decently and see where it goes. The balance of the team was difficult. We changed a few things. I think we have a great chance in this T20 World Cup. It is too early to say if we are favourites, but we will be fine,” Ali said.