MS Dhoni can go on and play into his 40s: Shane Watson

Former Australian cricketer Shane Watson feels that MS Dhoni can continue playing the game even after he turns 40. Watson, who retired from international cricket after the 2016 World T20 in India, has played two IPL seasons under Dhoni’s leadership for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

And Watson has been retained by the three-time champions for the upcoming edition as well. Watson said that Dhoni has done an excellent job in terms of maintaining his physique and fitness.

As per the Aussie, the 39-year-old still has lightning fast hands and wishes to see him play both in the IPL as well as for Team India. Watson, who’s also 39 years old, put forth his opinions during an interview with The Times of India (TOI).

I am a big fan of MS Dhoni, says Watson

“MS still loves playing. He is an evergreen cricketer and it feels like he just doesn’t age. Look, with the kind of skills he has and the hard yards he puts in, MS can go on and play into his 40s. MS has been able to manage his body well,” Watson said.

“The way he is able to run consistently and showcase skills behind the stumps are just incredible. I am a big fan of MS and would want to see him continue playing whether it’s for CSK or internationally,” he stated.

The 13th edition of the IPL is set to be played in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after being moved out of India due to the coronavirus pandemic. The pitches in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi are expected to be on the slower side and Watson reckons that it could work to their advantage.

“It definitely will. The pitches are going to be on the slower side. We have some high-quality spinners in our side and we should be able to capitalize,” Watson mentioned. CSK has Ravindra Jadeja, Imran Tahir, Piyush Chawla and Mitchell Santner in their ranks.

Watson would, nevertheless, miss the ambiance at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. “There is no doubt that the Yellow Army will be supporting us from far as they always do. It’s going to be a different experience and I will miss the rush that the crowds in Chennai always gave me,” Watson added.