Sport | Cricket
Self-belief key to Chennai's title victory
Chennai emerged as IPL champions because of the faith that their coach and captain reposed in the players, says UAE coach
- By K.R. Nayar, Chief Cricket Writer
- Published: 00:01 May 30, 2011
- Image Credit: Gulf News Archive
- Kabir Khan
Dubai: Chennai Super Kings emerged as Indian Premier League (IPL) champions because of the faith that their coach and captain reposed in their players, according to Kabir Khan, the coach of the UAE cricket team.
"Unity of the team and belief in themselves are the two most important factors that make a winning team in Twenty20 format. Dhoni is one of the most successful captains in world cricket today because of the confidence he has in his players.
"Once a player knows that his captain and coach are backing him then he will deliver his best. Stephen Fleming as coach and Dhoni as captain combined well to get the best out of the players," said Khan, who as a coach helped Afghanistan qualify for the Twenty20 World Cup and recently coached UAE to title triumph in the International Cricket Council World Cricket League.
"The fact that Chennai did not change their team for six matches till the IPL final reveals the confidence that Dhoni and Fleming bestowed on their players.
Biggest fear
"The biggest fear that all players face from giving out their best is the fear of being dropped. Once a player who has talent is assured of his place, he will sooner or later go on to produce his best," Khan said.
"The Indian Premier League has done a lot of good to Indian cricket. Though people may criticise it as a shorter version of the game, it has transformed many cricketers into confident players.
"The biggest advantage of the IPL is that it has removed the fear factor from young cricketers. The difference between first class and international cricket is the presence of huge crowds and cameras. A youngster who has played in the IPL would have already conquered such fears before he comes on the international stage and will be able to handle the pressures and will deliver his best," said Khan, who has represented Pakistan in Tests and one-dayers.
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