IPL 2021: ANALYSIS OF ALL EIGHT CAPTAINS AND WHAT THEY BRING TO THE TABLE

With 188 matches as captain under his belt, CSK stalwart MS Dhoni is set to be the first player...

- CT CONTRIBUTOR

In the T20 format, captaincy is a vital aspect of a game. Often, it's those key decisions on the field that becomes the difference between winning and losing matches. A captain is as good as his team, however, from field placements, picking the right bowlers in the different stages of a match to setting the right balance in a side, a skipper is crucial for the fortunes of a team. When you look at the best captains in the Indian Premier League (IPL) over the years, these attributes stated above have separated them from the rest. Be it Rohit Sharma, who has led Mumbai Indians to five IPL honours or the success of MS Dhoni in the colours of Chennai Super Kings, captaincy is what has been colossal for the success of these two champion units. The 2021 edition of the IPL is set to start from April 9 onwards. Amid the coronavirus pandemic, this season will witness action behind closed doors. Playing in neutral venues with the absence of fans is what will be a test for skippers and their respective sides. Ahead of the 2021 edition, we present an analysis of all the eight captains and what they will offer.

MS DHONI (CHENNAI SUPER KINGS)

With 188 matches as captain under his belt, CSK stalwart MS Dhoni is set to be the first player with 200 games as a leader in the competition. With a success rate of 58.82, Dhoni will be chasing a fourth honour with the Super Kings. Dhoni has been one of the greatest captains to have graced the sport. In international cricket and in the IPL, his legacy will be unmatched. What Dhoni brings to the table is that players often get settled and adapt to his style. He is a master behind the stumps often very calculated with his decision making. After a poor IPL 2020 campaign, MSD will hope to bring joy to the faces of fans. His vast knowledge will be key.