IPL 2020: Never write Chennai off: Sam Billings

Abu Dhabi - Sam praised Dhoni and the CSK management for showing trust in their core players.

English cricketer Sam Billings said his former side Chennai Super Kings got the quality to bounce back in this edition of the IPL.
The wicketkeeper-batsman noted that Chennai skipper MS Dhoni and management showing trust in their core players has resulted in the team being the most successful in the IPL - a factor that will hold them in good stead now too.
On Chennai struggling in the current edition, Billings recollected his 2018 edition, where Shane Watson was given an opportunity to redeem himself.
"Shane Watson, when we won it, got a hundred in the (2018) final. They stuck with him the whole way. And with players like that, their quality, and being around for that long, that they will succeed.
"We will see. It's still half-way point of the tournament. Never write Chennai off. I think everyone knows not to do that. Just as yet," he said during Abu Dhabi T10 League media day.
On a personal note, Billings hoped that England provide him more opportunities just like Chennai do. Last month Billings featured in matches against Australia.
"This was the first time I played consecutive games for England in ODI cricket since 2017. So, it's great to play consecutive games. If you get consistent opportunity or an extended run, like Chennai have done with loads of players, and that's why they are the most successful franchise around, it's because they give players opportunity to succeed and fail as well. A game here or there isn't in anyone's best interest."
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com

• IPL 2019