Test cricket, where patience and technique often take precedence, the concept of ‘Bazball’—named after England’s former captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum—has introduced a new dynamic. This style champions aggressive, fearless batting, aiming to dominate bowlers from the outset. While ‘Bazball’ is often associated with contemporary cricket, MS Dhoni, the legendary Indian captain, showcased this approach well before it became a buzzword. Here’s a look at three instances where MS Dhoni played innings that could be termed as ‘Bazball’ in spirit.
1. 69 vs West Indies, Antigua, 2006
In 2006, during India’s tour of the West Indies, MS Dhoni delivered a memorable 69 off just 52 balls in the first Test at Antigua. India had rebounded from a first-innings deficit and set out to build a substantial lead. Dhoni arrived at 419/5 and went after the bowling with audacious intent, hitting six sixes in his innings, including three consecutive ones off spinner Dave Mohammed. His aggressive play not only boosted India’s score but also demoralized the West Indian bowlers, setting the tone for an Indian victory.
2. 148 vs Pakistan, Faisalabad, 2006
In the same year, during the Test series against Pakistan, Dhoni’s innings of 148 at Faisalabad was another testament to his aggressive batting capabilities. Facing a formidable Pakistani total of 588, Dhoni countered with an explosive 148 off just 153 balls, including 19 fours and four sixes, maintaining a strike rate close to 97. His partnership with Irfan Pathan was crucial, guiding India to a strong 603 in reply. Dhoni’s knock was not just about runs; it was a significant statement, demonstrating his potential to redefine Test batting with an aggression rare in Indian cricket at the time.
3. 224 vs Australia, Chennai, 2013
Perhaps the most iconic of his aggressive innings was against Australia in Chennai in 2013. Walking in when India were on 196/4, MS Dhoni unleashed a thrilling knock, changing the match’s trajectory. His historic 224 runs came off 265 balls, at a strike rate of 84.52, with 24 fours and six sixes. This was not just a personal milestone but a monumental achievement that guided India to a massive 572, taking a significant 192-run lead. Dhoni’s performance didn’t just swing the game but set the tone for the series, earning him the Man of the Match as India triumphed by eight wickets.
MS Dhoni’s approach to Test cricket, especially in these instances, can be seen as a precursor to what is now celebrated as ‘Bazball’. His ability to shift gears, dominate bowlers, and alter the course of a match with sheer aggression and skill was ahead of its time. Dhoni’s legacy in Test cricket includes not just his captaincy or his calm demeanor but also these bold, game-changing innings that have inspired a new generation of cricketers to play with fearless intent. These moments not only highlight Dhoni’s batting prowess but also his significant contribution to the evolving narrative of Test cricket, where aggression can be as effective as traditional patience and defense.
