Legendary Indian wicketkeeper-batsman and captain of Chennai Super Kings M S Dhoni Has been a role model for many youth. Ever since the Indian Premier League (IPL) came into existence, there are many people who feel fortunate to play this game with them. One such young cricketer is South African pacer Lungi Ngidi who acknowledges Dhoni’s match-winning ability.
Lungi was taken back by CSK in 2018, the season in which CSK returned to the tournament after a two-year ban. At an impressive average of 14.18 and an economy rate of 6, the right-hander picked up 11 wickets in seven matches to help the team win their fourth title.
Later, in 2021, although Chennai won the trophy for the fifth time, Ngidi only got three matches to play, taking five wickets at an average of 25 and an economy rate of 10.41.
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In a conversation with The Guardian, Lungi expressed how he felt when Dhoni showed his trust in him, that too at the age of 22.
“Someone of Dhoni’s caliber trusted me to win him games when I was 22. IPL also taught me how to handle big crowds. I never played in front of 60,000 people and it was a bit overwhelming in the beginning. But once you move on it is a breeze,” Ngidi was quoted as saying by The Guardian.
Ahead of IPL 2022, Ngidi was snubbed by Delhi Capitals but did not get to play a single game as the franchise did not advance to the playoffs. He credited South African pacer Kagiso Rabada, who had moved to Punjab Kings, and Delhi skipper Rishabh Pant for keeping him upbeat during IPL 2022.
“When I talk to Kagiso Rabada (his fellow fast bowler), if I’m a little down he’ll remind me: ‘You’re a two-time IPL winner, and you’ve won the man of the match award. So here’s your Why are you condemning?
“This year also, in Delhi, Rishabh Pant has been very good. He is young but he already has so much influence within the game and being able to bowl to him in the nets and drive ideas helps you grow as a cricketer,” he said.
Ngidi, who made a comeback in the South Africa T20I squad during the five-match series against India In June this year, the Proteas are aiming for a permanent spot during the Proteas’ tour of England, which will begin with three ODIs, the first of which begins in Durham on July 19, followed by three T20Is and as many Tests.
“My confidence is high, the rhythm is good and I am looking forward to playing here. I really enjoy the English crowd and there is always good fun so I am excited. I have seen some swing and I am very happy with it – Even if it looks like they are preparing the wicket for the benefit of the batsmen,” Ngidi concluded.
(with IANS inputs)
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