Former player of Chennai Super Kings Sam Billings The batsman heaped praise on legendary wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season and described him as one of the best players he has played with in the tournament so far. Billings, who represented CSK in the 2018 and 2019 seasons, highlighted Dhoni's exceptional leadership skills and his unmatched ability to remain calm under pressure.
Under Dhoni's leadership, CSK has emerged as one of the most successful franchises in IPL history, winning five titles and consistently performing at the highest level. The English cricketer also shared an interesting off-field anecdote, revealing that Dhoni is a die-hard Manchester United fan.
Billings told that both of them often watched football matches together during the IPL. He further added a bizarre detail, stating that Dhoni had also installed a mirror setup in his room. As the IPL 2026 season approaches, Dhoni is set to represent CSK for the 17th time, continuing his long-standing association with the franchise.
“In terms of his captaincy, he's incredibly cool. He's really good. There's not a lot of good people out there. You don't come across very good people these days. Given the stardom he has and being a superstar, he's a lovely guy,” Billings said on 'Stick to Cricket'.
They said, “He's a Manchester United fan. We've watched every United game because you can't leave the hotel and go down to the hotel bar. He leaves his hotel room unlocked. He's got a little sheesh man who looks after the sheesh.”
Billings also recalled a serious on-field moment involving former Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Virat Kohli. He revealed how Kohli made extra efforts to give him a rousing farewell during a match. Billings, who has featured in 30 matches across three franchises in the IPL, has scored 503 runs.
Billings said, “Played against him. He got me out a few times. The passion he has. I remember going that way. I think Virat was at midwicket and he just did a big loop to shout in my face and I thought why are you wasting your time on me? All great players have something special and an aura.”
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