MS Dhoni has given so much to Indian cricket that his contribution can never be measured. Hailing from a small city Ranchi, he matched the popularity level of cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar.

The former Indian skipper not only helped to groom youngsters in Indian cricket, he has boosted the morale of rookie cricketers from Jharkhand too. 

As per Hindustan Times reports, the young cricketers from Jharkhand recently spoke about the contribution of Dhoni to the cricket in his state. 

Young 15-year old leggie, Pankaj Yadav, had managed to be in the India U19 team for the U19 Asia Cup recently. He had also bagged the best Jharkhand bowler in the awards night at the NCA, Bengaluru.

Pankaj thinks Dhoni has made it possible for cricketers in his city to dream big. The spinner also added that the Indian cricketer has helped them by increasing their self-belief. 

“Mahi sir’s feat has helped us express ourselves better. People know now that Jharkhand too has talented cricketers,” said Pankaj. 

Pankaj couldn't make it to Indian U-19 team for upcoming World Cup 2018. Though, another cricketer from Jharkhand and his teammate Anukul Roy has been selected in the squad. 

“I have half centuries and three-wicket hauls in U-19 matches. My all-round performance contributes a lot to the team’s success,” said the left-arm spinner about his own achievements.

Dhoni’s first coach Chanchal Bhattacharya said young players from Jharkhand are seeing Dhoni as a role model.

“Earlier, players from East Zone hardly got opportunity to play for the country. Sourav Ganguly bucked that trend and Dhoni proved that India’s eastern states can produce the best of cricketers,” said Bhattacharya.