Cricket Legend MS Dhoni’s Guiding Influence Helped Players Grow, Reveals Shardul Thakur
Indian seamer Shardul Thakur has opened up about the profound impact legendary wicketkeeper-batter Mahendra Singh Dhoni had on players during his stints with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Dhoni, considered one of the sharpest minds in the cricketing world, played a crucial role in grooming young talents and even supporting established stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma through their tougher times.
Thakur, who has played under Dhoni’s leadership at CSK, emphasized how the former India captain never spoon-fed the players but rather pushed them to develop their own game plans and strategies. “Playing with him has always been special because he allows us to grow. He allows us to come up with our own plan. So he will never spoon-feed us,” Thakur said at an event hosted by the Indian Institute of Sports Management (IISM).
Dhoni’s approach was to ensure that the players could independently handle situations even in his absence. “He will say, ‘Tomorrow I might not be available behind the wickets. What will you do? Go back to your room, think about your game, and come up with your plans, if it doesn’t work then I will intervene,'” Thakur revealed.
The legendary wicketkeeper-batter’s legacy extends far beyond his three ICC trophies and the numerous youngsters he has groomed over the years. Thakur highlighted how Dhoni’s unwavering support helped the likes of Kohli and Rohit, who were able to overcome their challenges and become the superstars they are today.
“Even the current greats I would say Virat, and Rohit, everyone in their life had a time where they could have been dropped. But the great MS Dhoni backed them and what they did after 2012 onwards up until now,” Thakur said.
Dhoni’s presence and influence remain strong even after stepping down as CSK’s captain. The 100-ball cricket live, backyard cricket, and club cricket enthusiasts continue to marvel at Dhoni’s ability to read the game and guide his teammates from behind the stumps.
🔗 Source