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The Indian Premier League (IPL) defending champions Chennai Super Kings are having their training camp in Surat ahead of IPL 2022. While usually the MS Dhoni-led side have their camp in Chennai, this year they have shifted their training base and the reason has a bit of an MS Dhoni genius behind him.
Recent reports reveal that the Lalbhai Contractor Stadium selected by CSK for pre-IPL camp has very recently built pitches with the same soil as it is in Mumbai which is where most of the IPL games are being held this year. It was for this reason that the management agreed to make the shift and Dhoni might even have had a big role to play in that decision.
Notably, CSK will undergo a 20-day camp to gear up for the 15th edition of IPL which is scheduled to start on March 26.
"Top cricketing stars like MS Dhoni, Dwayne Bravo, Ravindra Jadeja and other national and international stars will be part of the practice camp. The cricket franchise selected Surat as we have developed pitches using the same soil as it is in Mumbai," Surat District Cricket Association (SDCA) secretary Nainesh Desai said as quoted by TOI.
The SDCA officials informed that due to strict bio-bubble guidelines no one is allowed to enter the stadium during the practice session. They also said that a heavy security arrangement using private and police force has been made to ensure the safety of cricketers.
"The players and associated staff will be strictly following the bio-bubble rules and the same are applicable for the stadium administration. It is a matter of pride for the city that we got a practice camp for a team that has international cricketing stars," said Hemant Contractor, President of SDCA told TOI.
"Due to the bio-bubble, no spectators will be allowed at the stadium and we expect that people of Surat will support us in maintaining the players infection-free. Such events put the city in the country’s cricketing map and we hope to get national and international cricket events here," Contractor added.
The reason for selecting Surat as the training camp will make everyone understand how sharp MSD’s mind works. It can be said without any doubt that this is Dhoni's tactical acumen & on the spot decision making that set the management in such a decision. In a way, Dhoni has stumped everyone once again with his insight before the league begins.
