How MS Dhoni’s phone call convinced Dwayne Bravo to remain with CSK post IPL retirement
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) veteran all-rounder Dwayne Bravo on Wednesday revealed how a phone call from skipper MS Dhoni and coach Stephen Fleming convinced him to stay associated with the franchise despite announcing retirement.
Bravo, who was released by Chennai last year was appointed as the bowling coach of the side, and this was the first season since 2011 that Chennai played without him in the playing eleven.
Sharing his coaching journey, the 39-year-old took to Instagram and revealed what unfolded after his retirement.
“Where do I begin! A year ago when I decided to announce my retirement from IPL cricket it was a sad moment but at the same time I was grateful for a successful IPL career.”
As fate would have it I received a phone call from @chennaiipl captain @mahi7781 and head coach Stephen Fleming @stephen fleming who invited me to be a part of the coaching staff,” he wrote.
“I had no doubt in my mind that this was the direction I wanted to take my new cricketing career. I’ve always had the vision in my mind of one day sharing what I can only describe as my God given talents as a cricketer to what it is right now – a coach for one of the best teams in IPL history,” he added.
“Special mention must be given to bowling coach Eric @trilogygroupza; it truly felt like a partnership working and learning alongside him. To the young bowling team @matheesha.pathirana_99 @ravindra.jadeja @deepak_chahar9 @maheesh_theekshana @rajvardhan__hangargekar @akkionfire @dwainep_29 big congratulations to each and every one of you, this victory is a result of your dedication and hard work,” he wrote.
Bravo featured in 144 games for Chennai, taking 168 wickets and amassing 1556 runs. He featured in three of their four IPL victories, in 2011, 2018, and 2021.