Playing with MS Dhoni has always been special because he allows us to grow: Shardul Thakur

Shardul Thakur and MS Dhoni. (Photo Source: BCCI/IPL)

Indian allrounder Shardul Thakur recently opened up on the unique mentorship style of the former Indian captain, MS Dhoni. He revealed the insights that show the veteran’s approach towards nurturing talent and giving independence to his teammates.

Dhoni, the only captain to win all three ICC trophies (T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup, and Champions Trophy), has made a huge impact on Indian cricket. His leadership at Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been equally impressive. Thakur, who has played under Dhoni’s captaincy for both India and CSK, shared his experiences of playing under the legendary cricketer’s mentorship style.

“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. 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 told media at an event.

Also read: MS Dhoni opens up on bond with Virat Kohli

MS Dhoni has groomed so many youngsters: Shardul Thakur

Both the players have had a fruitful partnership, particularly in the IPL, where Dhoni has been involved in 14 of Thakur’s dismissals as a wicketkeeper across 71 innings. While for the national side, both have played together seven times and the former skipper was involved only twice in Thakur’s dismissals.

Thakur also highlighted Dhoni’s broader influence on Indian cricket. He credited the legendary wicketkeeper for grooming young talents, specifically mentioning how he backed players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma during crucial phases of their careers. 

“The legacy that he has left behind, three ICC Trophies, grooming so many youngsters. 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 concluded.