Former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has by no means adopted the same old script after retirement, and his newest remarks solely reinforce that picture. Now 44, the three-time ICC trophy-winning skipper has spoken candidly a few in style post-retirement path many legends embrace—however one he seems eager to keep away from. In a uncommon interplay, Dhoni defined why moving into the commentary field is much extra sophisticated than it seems, providing a glimpse into his considerate, guarded strategy to the sport even years after retiring from worldwide cricket.
Dhoni has largely stayed away from public cricket discussions since calling time on his worldwide profession in 2020. Other than his continued presence within the Indian Premier League (IPL), the place he nonetheless seems for Chennai Tremendous Kings (CSK), the previous captain has maintained a low profile. That silence has typically sparked hypothesis about whether or not he may in the future take up commentary—a transfer that feels pure for somebody of his stature. Nonetheless, chatting with sports activities broadcaster Jatin Sapru, Dhoni made it clear why the thought doesn’t attraction to him.
“Commentary could be very tough,” Dhoni mentioned, stressing that the problem lies not in data of the sport, however within the tone and accountability that include analysing it reside.
On the coronary heart of Dhoni’s hesitation is what he calls a ‘very advantageous line’ commentators should continually stroll. In line with him, describing a match can simply slip into criticising gamers—generally with out the commentator even realising it.
“I really feel there’s a very advantageous line between describing the sport and, in that course of, getting right into a zone the place you begin criticising people who’re enjoying the sport. It’s a very skinny line,” added the Ranchi-born cricketer.
He defined that whereas analysts might intend to be sincere and informative, the strain of reside commentary can result in remarks that really feel private to gamers on the sector. Dhoni believes that staying on the safer aspect—merely describing what is going on—is more durable than it sounds, particularly when feelings and expectations run excessive.
“Usually, you don’t even really feel that what you might be doing could also be borderline improper. You’ll at all times prefer to be on the opposite aspect the place you might be describing the sport. Should you really feel one thing is improper you say it out,” noticed Dhoni.
Additionally READ: Can India create history by defending their T20 World Cup crown? MS Dhoni shares his verdict
Empathy issues when groups battle
Dhoni additionally highlighted the emotional intelligence required to be commentator. When a group is shedding, he feels there are at all times deeper causes behind the efficiency, and explaining these causes with out sounding harsh is an artwork in itself.
In line with him, commentary is not only about stating errors however about presenting context in a manner that no particular person feels singled out. That steadiness, Dhoni advised, calls for sensitivity, restraint, and a capability to decide on phrases rigorously—abilities he believes are important however typically underestimated.
“Learn how to put it, that can be an artwork, find out how to politely put it ahead the place no one feels focused. If the group is shedding, there are causes behind it, and it’s worthwhile to have the ability of describing these causes with out anyone feeling dangerous. That’s the artwork of commentary,” MSD added additional.
One more reason Dhoni feels unsuited to the function is his personal relationship with statistics. Not like many fashionable commentators who thrive on knowledge and historic comparisons, Dhoni admits he has by no means been deeply connected to numbers—even his personal.
He identified that there are specialists who can recall statistics throughout eras and groups with ease, one thing he overtly says shouldn’t be his energy. In a format the place numbers typically drive narratives, Dhoni feels that hole would put him at an obstacle.
“I’m not good with stats. There are lots of people who’re superb with stats. They know stats. Should you ask me about my stats, I might be like ‘hmm’. There are specific individuals who know stats not simply in regards to the Indian group or Indian gamers however about everybody all through the period,” defined the previous skipper.
Additionally READ: Adam Zampa picks his best all-time T20 XI; no place for MS Dhoni
