Dhoni’s Career Longevity: A Case Study in Workload Management

MS Dhoni, a figure synonymous with Indian cricket, offers a valuable lesson in workload management, as highlighted by former India fielding coach R Sridhar. Having debuted in 2004, Dhoni shouldered immense responsibility across all formats, leading India to multiple World Cup victories and achieving the No. 1 Test ranking. The demanding schedule prompted Dhoni to reassess his training regimen. Sridhar explained that Dhoni strategically decreased wicketkeeping practice, which reduced the strain on his fingers. Instead, he focused on reaction drills to maintain his reflexes. A significant decision was his retirement from Test cricket in 2014, allowing him to extend his international career and focus on white-ball cricket. Dhoni’s exceptional wicketkeeping stats, with over 1,200 dismissals in professional matches, underscore his sustained excellence. Even after retiring from international cricket, Dhoni continues to captain CSK in the IPL, a testament to his ability to adapt and make smart decisions regarding his training and career. His approach serves as a blueprint for modern cricketers aiming to balance the rigors of professional cricket.