Dhoni advises against Test

Introduction:

Pathirana and MS Dhoni. (Photo Sourcr: BCCI/IPL)

In a recent press conference, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni gave some unexpected advice to Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana, urging him not to rush into Test cricket too soon.

Pathirana's debut:

Chennai Super Kings' Matheesha Pathirana with skipper MS Dhoni. (AP Photo/Aijaz Rahi)

Pathirana, who made his debut for the Sri Lankan national team earlier this year, has been impressive in limited-overs cricket, particularly in the T20 format. He has already drawn comparisons to Lasith Malinga for his unique slinging action and ability to generate extreme pace. However, Dhoni, who has played over 90 Test matches for India, believes that the 21-year-old Pathirana should not be in a hurry to make his Test debut. "I think it's important for young bowlers to take their time and develop their skills before they make the jump to Test cricket," said Dhoni. "Test cricket is a different ball game altogether, and you need to be mentally and physically prepared for it."

There is a lot of pressure on players to perform:

Matheesha Pathirana, Lasith Malinga and Maheesh Theekshana pose after a match. Photo Courtesy: Rajasthan Royals Twitter

Dhoni's advice comes at a time when many young players are looking to make their mark in international cricket as quickly as possible. With the rise of T20 leagues around the world, there is a lot of pressure on players to perform in the shortest format of the game, often at the expense of their longer-term development.

In Pathirana's case:

MS Dhoni has rued two overs of poor bowling vs PBKS after loss at Chepauk. (AP Photo)

In Pathirana's case, Dhoni believes that the young fast bowler should focus on honing his skills in the shorter formats of the game before making the transition to Test cricket. "He has already shown that he has the talent and ability to succeed at the international level," said Dhoni. "But I would advise him to take his time and work on his game in the shorter formats first. Once he has done that, he can make the transition to Test cricket with more confidence."

Dhoni's advice:

Matheesha Pathirana (left) and MS Dhoni (right) (Photo credit: Twitter @ChennaiIPL and @MSDKingdom)

Dhoni's advice is not only relevant to Pathirana but to all young cricketers looking to make their mark in the international arena. While it's important to have ambition and a desire to succeed at the highest level, it's equally important to take a long-term view of one's career and not rush into things too quickly.

Conclusion:

In the end, it's the players who take their time and focus on their development who are most likely to achieve long-term success in the game.