Indian veteran MS Dhoni was seen guiding his young teammates during the practice session of Asia Cup 2018. Earlier, Ambati Rayudu had talked about Dhoni's contribution in shaping up youngsters for the high-pressure game.
Not only Rayudu, one of India's members of the current team acknowledged that Dhoni and Virat Kohli, who is currently rested for the six-nation tournament, make the newcomers feel like home.
Talking to Hindustan Times, he said, “Mahi bhai is very supportive of the young players coming into the team. Not even for a moment do you feel that you are entering into a team of champions. Even at the nets, you will see him always helping the bowlers. He guides them on how to prepare for a game from his own experience and what he has seen on the wicket. The best part is that when we walk out to the field, after a couple of overs he will tell the bowlers exactly which are the areas to bowl on and how the bowler needs to work on his speed and variations. Similarly, Virat bhai likes to give the players the freedom to express himself and not get bogged down by the pressure of representing the country." Kohli has always aimed to move forward with the whole team and that is why he likes to mentor the youngsters.
One more guy from the Indian set-up came forward and lauded the duo. “When you come in initially, you feel a little wary to approach them. But you soon realize that they are very approachable and welcoming. The decisions are taken in unison and Dhoni bhai is always there to bring up any ploy or strategy that might strike him on the field. He is almost like the fielding vice-captain who is constantly guiding us. Leading a team isn’t easy, but Dhoni bhai plays the perfect second fiddle and makes the job that much easier for Kohli bhai,” he revealed.
A teammate of Dhoni from Indian Premier League said that the former India cricketer always helps in decision making. “His door is always open. You want a suggestion? You can just go and speak to him. Clarity is something that makes him special. With Kohli also, he gives you that freedom. The fact that he talks of fearless cricket is backed by his actions. If you are comfortable with something, he won’t try to boss around and change that. He is happy to let you try your options and plans. Only when it doesn’t work does he work on a Plan B. Also, they (Dhoni and Kohli) understand each other really well and for them, nothing comes before the team,” the player said.
