Chennai Super Kings icon MS Dhoni has opened up about his evolving role in the franchise and the changing dynamics of T20 cricket, emphasizing his need to adapt to remain effective in the modern game.
Speaking to ‘JioStar’ after CSK’s victory against Mumbai Indians, Dhoni made it clear that he has genuinely handed over the reins to new captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, contrary to widespread speculation that the veteran was still pulling strings behind the scenes.
“Before the start of the tournament, I told Ruturaj, ‘If I give you advice, it doesn’t mean you have to follow it. I will try to stay away as much as possible,'” Dhoni revealed. “The fact is, he was making 99 per cent of the decisions. The most important calls — bowling changes, field placements — were all his. I was just helping him out. He did a brilliant job of handling the players.”
The 43-year-old legend, who has led CSK to five IPL titles, praised Gaikwad’s temperament, describing him as “very calm, very composed” — qualities that made him an ideal candidate for leadership.
Reflecting on the evolution of T20 cricket since the IPL’s inception in 2008, Dhoni highlighted how dramatically the game has transformed. “The way we played T20 in 2008 and the way we played IPL last year, it’s very different. Earlier, there was a lot of turn in the wickets. Wickets were two-paced. Now, India’s wickets have become much better; they are more batter-friendly.”
This evolution has necessitated changes in Dhoni’s own approach to batting. “Batsmen are now willing to take risks. They believe that with proper cricketing shots, they can play big strokes, and at the same time, they are improvising with their shot selection…whether it’s a reverse scoop against a fast bowler, a sweep, or a reverse sweep against a pacer,” he observed.
“I am no different, I have to adapt as well. This is what is required of me for where I am batting. You have to try and stay relevant,” added the veteran, who continues to be a finisher for CSK despite relinquishing captaincy.
Dhoni also offered insights into his relationship with Virat Kohli of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, revealing how their captain-player dynamic evolved into friendship over the years.
“Initially, it was more of a relationship between a captain and a young player, but over time, as we kept interacting, we became friends. Even today, we share that bond, though there’s always a line of respect between a senior and a junior. Now that neither of us is captain, we get more time to talk before matches.”
In a testament to his analytical approach to the game, Dhoni expressed appreciation for commentary in regional languages, particularly noting the energy of Bhojpuri commentary. “Listening to commentary gives you an outsider’s perspective. It sparks new ideas like ‘why don’t we try this approach?’…which can then be evaluated based on intelligence and data to see if it fits within the team’s strategy.”
As Dhoni continues to adapt his game to cricket’s ever-changing landscape, his insights offer a rare glimpse into the mindset of one of the sport’s most successful strategists, demonstrating why he remains a pivotal figure in Indian cricket even in the twilight of his playing career.