Billings basks in Dhoni effect

Sam Billings who inspired CSK to their second victory in IPL- 11 with a fiery 56 off 23 balls on Tuesday said the presence of skipper M. S. Dhoni at the opposite end calmed his nerves.

“It’s about being composed and there’s not a better person to have at the crease than Dhoni. He is so composed. It’s impossible not to have his effect rub off on you. It was about building a partnership together,” said Billings, an unabashed admirer of his captain.

“I know it’s a cliche but in T20 cricket you can take your time on an absolute belter. You are in not in so much of a rush all the time. Actually you have got an opportunity to get yourself in, run hard and get ones and twos,” Billings said while assessing his knock.

It was the first match for CSK at Chepauk after a twoyear suspension for spot- fixing. “It not only means a lot to me but also to the team. But probably it means more to the fans who haven’t had cricket here for the last two years. We saw the passion of our fans during practice sessions. We had 10,000 people show up for a practice game. It shows how much it means to people here.”

Andre Russell whose blitzkrieg of 88 was crucial to KKR’s imposing score is on a comeback after serving a one- year doping ban. The all- rounder said the one year transformed him. “I have learnt how to be humble. I need to make sure that you stay on top of what you are doing as a professional and yet be humble,” the Jamaican said.

The 29- year- old said he is high on confidence as his performance in KKR’s first two matches would attest. “Self belief is the key in any sport. I’m in good condition. I wouldn’t say that I’m 100 percent fit. I’m happy that I’m hitting well and bowling with pace. In a few more games I will be where I want to be,” he added.