Dwayne Bravo is one of the first names that springs to mind when you consider great energy and unrivalled appeal in the cricket scene. Apart from his spectacular on-field performance, especially with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), the West Indian cricket player is well-known for his vivid personality and passion for life. Whether it's his Caribbean background or the contagious enthusiasm that results from being a member of a successful team like CSK, Bravo always adds another level of thrills to anything he does.
It was great fun hooking up with Bravo at Express Avenue's virtual reality game, Cricket Mayhem, premiere. Bravo was all grins and full of energy, ready to test out the game in front of his devoted followers. Dressed simply with his trademark gold chain glinting in the light. Though Bravo remains one of the most exciting cricketers in the world, both on and off the pitch, his enthusiasm was evident, and it was not difficult to understand why after all, even if this season has not been his finest in terms of on-field performance.
The talk naturally focused on his long-standing connection with CSK's venerable skipper, MS Dhoni. Bravo and Dhoni have grown close over time that transcends the cricket ground. Bravo said, his tone full of love, "My relationship with MS is really good." We are quite close since we genuinely refer to each other as "brothers from another mother."
Although most supporters know of the friendship these two have during games, Bravo let us in on a delicious secret that gives their friendship a personal touch mangoes. You do really read correctly! The sweet fruit that links two cricketing heavyweights together is mango.
"MS's room is constantly full of mangoes," Bravo said, grinning broadly from ear to ear. "And we like to eat them together following a great session, as I love them too. Though it's basic, one of those little things that brings us closer.
Fascinatingly, Bravo initially hinted at this delectable secret back in May 2019 during the Behindwoods Gold Medal Awards event. Bravo paused to share this odd realisation with the viewers as he won the Best Popular Player award on behalf of MS Dhoni. Everyone was grinning at his light-hearted disclosure, which provided a window into the private lives of two of the most adored cricket stars.
This little story creates a picture of the off-field relationship the world hardly gets to see. Though they project a larger-than-life image and are under pressure to lead one of the most successful teams in IPL history, Bravo and Dhoni find delight in the most basic pleasures, like eating a platter of ripe, delicious mangoes. These times draw attention to the human side of cricket's stars and serve as a reminder that even the most famous players in the game value the little pleasures life presents.
Bravo's passion for life transcends mangoes or cricket. With his new track, Asia, his most recent musical endeavour has been generating waves among his followers. With listeners unable to resist dancing to its contagious rhythm, the snappy, high-energy track has fast become a favourite. Bravo remarked regarding his music, reflecting the same idea he takes to his cricket: "I just want people to feel good, to dance, and to have fun."
But let his fun-loving attitude fool you. Bravo treats his game as much as his music, with seriousness. Though he could seem to be a party animal, his loyalty to his team and his sport is unflinching. Professional cricket players have a rigorous schedule that provides little time for personal leisure, but when the chance presents itself, Bravo and his colleagues know how to maximise it. And when they do get time to relax, it's usually as a team, cementing the ties that make CSK among the most closely-knit teams in the IPL.
One thing is certain as Bravo keeps juggling his several passions: his vitality and joy for life are really contagious. Cricket, music, or mangoes one thing remains apparent. In the realm of cricket, where rivalries and competitiveness usually take front stage, it's encouraging to read tales like these that serve as a reminder of the friendships and relationships created along the road.
Thus, keep in mind that off the pitch, MS Dhoni and Dwayne Bravo share something as simple and sweet as a fondness for mangoes, a fruit that symbolises the richness and delight of their unique friendship. This will help you next time you see them on the pitch commanding the game with their talents and strategy.