Matthew Hayden backs his ex-Australian teammate to upstage prime MS Dhoni; Reveals most entertaining sledger

India and Australia are the two powerhouses of world cricket and when the two face each other in any format of the game, fierce competition is guaranteed on the field. Considered one of the greatest Australian batters, Matthew Hayden was an integral part of their side in the 2000s that shared a torrid battle against India, including in their 2003 World Cup triumph. 

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However, the southpaw enjoyed a decent fan following in India when he played under MS Dhoni for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Hayden made his IPL debut for CSK against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in 2008. His final appearance was in the 2010 season when the Yellow Brigade won their maiden title by defeating blockbuster franchise Mumbai Indians.

During a candid chat with ESPNcricinfo, the former CSK opener answered some interesting questions involving his then-skipper. Branded as 'Captain Cool', it is very rare to find Dhoni in an angry mood both on and off the field. However, Hayden revealed that one way to see the other side of the CSK talisman is by being lazy on the field.

"MS Dhoni is pretty unflappable it must be said but if you really wanna give him the shivers. Just have a slack fielding effort. Don't contribute in the field and that's one of the few times you would look at him and go 'ooh that's not gonna be good'," Hayden said.

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Hayden picks Mike Hussey over prime MSD

Dhoni is considered as one of the fastest runners between the wickets in the world. However, when asked who would win a 100m race between prime Dhoni and prime Mike Hussey, Hayden backed his former Australian teammate to edge the wicketkeeper batter in the sprint. 

Meanwhile, the 52-year-old also picked the most entertaining sledger he played with or against. According to him legendary India spinner Harbhajan Singh tops the chart. "I always loved the battle with Harbhajan Singh, he was a beauty," Hayden added.