Veteran Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh showered praise on MS Dhoni's leadership in the Indian Premier League. Having played under Dhoni for Team India, Harbhajan also got a firsthand experience of his captaincy during his stint with Chennai Super Kings in the IPL. Dhoni, who led CSK to a record-equalling five IPL titles, stepped down as captain last season, passing the baton to Ruturaj Gaikwad to carry forward his legacy.

Harbhajan shared his thoughts on Dhoni's leadership style, pointing out that while Dhoni doesn't lean on data for his decisions, he always has a solid game plan ready in his mind.

“MS Dhoni, you have heard his name; he doesn't care about what the computer is suggesting. He wore his pads and gloves, entered the field, and gave directions on the way - Bhajju paa, yahaan se, Deepak vahaan se. He knows who is going to be his next bowler; he very well knows which, when and where he has to use which card,” Harbhajan told ESPNCricinfo.

“He is probably the best-ever captain who has led the team. A big franchise like CSK is run by just one guy, and that too with so much success, who doesn't need a computer. He outclassed the computers; you can check the teams who are data-driven and then check the ones who don't,” he added.

The five-time champions will start their campaign against rivals Mumbai Indians at their home ground of Chepauk.