Dewald Brevis has opened up about the guidance he received from Chennai Super Kings icon MS Dhoni—advice that has shaped how the South African batter approaches his batting confidence in the IPL. Speaking ahead of the new season, Brevis said Dhoni’s message was simple: be confident, but never drift into overconfidence, a lesson that has stayed with him since his first IPL campaign in 2022.
Dhoni’s confidence lesson that stuck with Brevis
Brevis, 23, joined the CSK environment in IPL 2025 as a replacement player for Gurjapneet Singh after the latter was ruled out due to injury. Over time, he has gone on to become one of the key faces in the five-time champions’ squad.
During much of the IPL 2025 season, Brevis shared the dressing room with Dhoni, when Chennai were led by the former captain after Ruturaj Gaikwad suffered a season-ending injury following the opening five matches. In that extended period with Dhoni, Brevis said the captain’s counsel from earlier years continued to resonate with him.
Recalling Dhoni’s words from his debut IPL year, Brevis said Dhoni explained that players can fall into two categories—confidence and overconfidence—and told him to remain firmly on the side of confidence. Brevis described it as “one of the best pieces of advice” he received, adding that the message has remained with him ever since.
Brevis also spoke highly of Dhoni’s temperament, praising his humility and calm nature both on and off the field. He said he admires Dhoni’s character and values the opportunity to learn simply by watching how he goes about his work—whether during matches or in everyday routines.
Brevis on watching Dhoni: humility, composure and learning
In his remarks, Brevis said that being around Dhoni allows him to observe how the legendary wicketkeeper-batter carries himself. He noted that Dhoni appears to “just be himself,” which, in Brevis’s view, makes his approach even more impressive. He further pointed out that Dhoni’s knowledge comes from having played in numerous situations and delivering many memorable knocks, and that learning from those experiences can happen even without direct instruction—just by observing.
Dhoni’s 2026 absence from the playing XI
Looking at the current CSK setup for IPL 2026, Brevis revealed that despite being part of the squad, Dhoni has not yet appeared in the playing XI across the 13 matches played so far. Brevis said Dhoni is still recovering from a calf injury.
Even without taking the field, Brevis suggested it has been beneficial to have Dhoni involved in training. He added that, like many others, he wishes Dhoni could have played this season.
CSK journey: “best decision ever” for Brevis
Brevis then reflected on his time with the franchise, describing it as “special.” He said the affection he has received since joining CSK—particularly from the fans—is something he deeply values, and that it is hard to fully explain the feeling that comes with walking out to bat and being on the field in Chennai.
He also reiterated that coming in as a replacement player in 2025 turned out to be the “best decision ever.” Brevis said the move has helped him learn more about himself and his game, while he also praised the city of Chennai, saying he has truly enjoyed being there.
Red Bull support and Brevis’ routine
Brevis, who is associated with Red Bull, credited the brand for backing him throughout his journey, in both positive phases and difficult moments. He said the partnership supports him by aiding energy and hydration, and that he also enjoys the product’s taste.
He described the value of having Red Bull as a source of fuel for energy and hydration when he is playing, while also highlighting the smaller interactions and the support he receives from the brand as an athlete—especially during ups and downs.
Brevis concluded by saying the best part is that it “tastes so good,” tying the sponsor’s role to both performance and his day-to-day experience.
