A Power Player

In a country where cricketing idols are created and destroyed with the same ease, Mahendra Singh Dhoni is an enigma who could indeed make a very big bang.

Starting as a wicket-keeper, Dhoni made the news very soon for his flowing mane and destructive batting. So impressive has been his batting, that he is now considered as one of India's all-rounders, in the same mould as Adam Gilchrist for Australia. While some attribute his style of batting to the influence that Virender Sehwag had on Indian youngsters, it's unfair to compare. Dhoni has a style and technique entirely his own. The 'whip' shot in which the bat goes 360o vertically is tough to explain in words, but the end result normally is six runs!

It is sheer power that dominates his batting, but there is also a lot of thought that goes into it. And proof of his temperament is that his first ODI hundred (148) came against Pakistan off just 123 balls and that too, in just his fifth match. His highest score till date is an incredible 183 not out against Sri Lanka off just 145 balls. And this contributed to a chase of 299 that India won.

Off the field, Dhoni has inspired a fad of long hair that looks just like him. And his has endeared more than just the fans. Pakistan President Gen. Pervez Musharraf once famously told him, "Don't cut your hair"! That is just another aspect of his personality that Dhoni will need to concentrate on and maintain.

As a wicketkeeper, Dhoni is stable. For a long time before Dhoni, India had struggled to find a quality wicketkeeper who could also contribute regularly with the bat. Dhoni has filled that void successfully and with Dinesh Kaarthick constantly snapping at his heels, he needs to ensure that his game does not suffer. Kaarthick may not be as spectacular with the bat, but he certainly is just as effective as he proved on the tour of South Africa.

West Indies will be Dhoni's first World Cup and his trip in 2006, which was rather forgettable, would give him confidence and experience that is priceless. He is an important part of the Indian team and his performances will play a telling part in how well India does.

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