Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has shared an intriguing anecdote about the legendary wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni, shedding light on his enigmatic personality and unwavering dedication to the sport.
Chopra, who shared a room with Dhoni during an India A tour in 2004, described him as a quiet and unassuming individual. Despite his growing reputation, Dhoni displayed a remarkable humility, never answering his phone and opting to eat vegetarian meals to accommodate his roommate’s dietary preferences.
However, when it came to cricket, Dhoni transformed into a different beast. Chopra witnessed firsthand Dhoni’s exceptional batting skills, particularly his ability to execute unconventional shots with ease. During a match in Kenya, Dhoni stunned everyone by hitting a reverse sweep for four against a Pakistani bowler bowling at over 140 kmph.
Despite not getting many opportunities to bat, Dhoni remained actively involved in the team by bowling to his competitor, Dinesh Karthik. Chopra questioned Dhoni’s choice, but the latter simply replied that he enjoyed bowling.
Chopra also praised Dhoni’s exceptional wicketkeeping abilities, noting that his hands were still faster than anyone in the world. Despite not practicing keeping extensively, Dhoni’s natural talent and dedication allowed him to excel in this aspect of the game.
Dhoni’s unwavering commitment to cricket and his ability to perform under pressure have made him one of the most successful captains in Indian cricket history. Under his leadership, India won the T20 World Cup in 2007, the ODI World Cup in 2011, and the Champions Trophy in 2013.
