Badrinath decides to treat Hussey as guide

Why S Badrinath is spot on by choosing 'Mr Cricket' Michael Hussey as his guide

Badrinath decides to treat Hussey as guide

Why S Badrinath is spot on by choosing 'Mr Cricket' Michael Hussey as his guide

Subramaniam Badrinath is considered to be one of those Indian batsmen in the classical mould. However, the fourth season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) has seen a makeover in the Chennai Super Kings batter's style.

S Badrinath tops the batting averageu00a0for Chennai Super Kings in IPL so far

Badrinath has been on a roll in this IPL, having scored 172 in six matches at an average of 86.00 so far ufffd the highest for CSK. His performance might not have hogged the limelight, but he has been piling up his scores quietly.

The key to Badrinath's re-avatar has been the company of Australia's 'Mr Cricket', Michael Hussey. "Badrinath was looking for an icon like Hussey who also had a late international debut. Hussey is the kind of player who is very forthcoming.

Guide
"He (Badrinath) was looking for someone who could guide him and he has chosen Hussey and wisely too," VB Chandrasekhar, CSK's director of operations, told MiD DAY on the eve of the team's return clash against Pune Warriors at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.

"The belief of getting recognition even at the age of 29 has come from Hussey. The Aussie has had a huge effect on him," added the former India cricketer and national selector.

Chandrasekhar believes the role of a floater has helped Badrinath a great deal. "He has been given more overs (to bat) this time. Last time he was more of a finisher. His skipper has shown more faith in him after the Champions League T20 in South Africa.

Aggressive
"That's why we are seeing a more aggressive Badrinath because more opportunities are coming his way. He has batted up the order and has become one of the floaters in the side," he said.

The defending champions are yet to win an away game in this IPL. They have a chance to set the record straight against Pune whom they comprehensively beat on Monday in Chennai.

Chandrasekhar felt CSK was gathering momentum. "Chennai is a balanced side. It will take time for the new squad to settle in. Doug Bollinger has proven to be lethal in death overs. Fielding has been exceptional.

Defending 142 with the likes of Yuvraj Singh (in the opposition rank) was very commendable. We are gathering momentum," he said.