Former Indian cricketer MS Dhoni shared insights into what sets the 2011 ODI World Cup-winning squad apart from the current team led by Rohit Sharma, which seeks to replicate that historic achievement.
India last won the ICC Cricket World Cup 12 years ago under the leadership of Dhoni, widely regarded as one of the most accomplished captains in the history of Indian cricket. A dozen years later, the “Men in Blue’ are on a quest to recreate that glory.
During a recent event, Dhoni was asked about the difference between the two teams, and he pinpointed a key distinguishing factor – the mindset of playing to win the trophy for the cricketing icon, Sachin Tendulkar.
Dhoni noted, “There’s a big difference between the two teams. That team (2011 World Cup-winning Indian side) was a lot more united. They wanted to win the World Cup for Sachin Tendulkar. He commanded a lot of respect from others. I am not sure about this team. Don’t know who all want to win the World Cup for Virat Kohli. But, they want to win for India for sure. This is a big difference”.
“It is a very good team. Bohot accha balance hai team ka. Harlog acha khel rahe hain (The team’s balance is extremely good. All the players are playing well). So everything is looking very good. Isse zyada main kuch nahi bolunga, baaki samajhdaar ko ishara kaafi hai (I won’t say anything more than this. For the wise, the signal is enough),” Dhoni added.
Dhoni is one of the greatest cricketers to have played the game for India. He is the only captain to win all three ICC trophies, including the T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy. He continues to captain the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). His recent feat involved leading CSK to their fifth IPL championship.
While an announcement of retirement had been anticipated due to a knee injury, Dhoni provided an update on his recovery, assuring that his knee had withstood the surgical procedure, and he was presently undergoing rehabilitation. The prognosis was positive, with expectations of a substantial improvement in his condition by November, allowing him to resume his daily routine without any issues. Dhoni underwent knee surgery in June post IPL 2023.
The hosts are enjoying a stellar campaign in the ongoing ICC ODI World Cup 2023. They currently sit atop the points table with a flawless record of five victories, accumulating 10 points. Another win in their upcoming matches would all but secure their spot in the semifinals.
(Inputs from ANI)