“Being MS Dhoni Is Not Easy” – CSK All-Rounder’s Big Statement on Legendary Captain

MS Dhoni has been an inspiration for billions of cricket fans worldwide, and his popularity only continues to grow with each passing year. Even after decades in the game, Dhoni’s charm, calm demeanor, and exceptional cricketing skills keep him relevant, especially in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he continues to lead the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with unmatched finesse. Beyond being an extraordinary wicketkeeper and a dependable batter, Dhoni is celebrated as one of India’s most successful captains, having led the team to multiple ICC trophies and leaving an indelible mark on international cricket.

His leadership style is admired not only for tactical brilliance but also for the way he motivates and nurtures his teammates. Shreyas Gopal, the leg-spinner who now captains the Mangalore Dragons in the Maharaja Trophy 2025, shared his admiration for Dhoni, revealing the invaluable lessons he has learned while being part of the CSK squad during the 2025 IPL season. For Gopal, being in the presence of Dhoni was an education in itself, offering insights into captaincy, match finishing, and handling pressure that no book or training session could provide.

Reflecting on his experience, Gopal said, “Being MS Dhoni is not easy at all. Many people think it’s simple, but it’s really very tough. Yes, he receives enormous fame and love from fans, but what makes him special is how grounded, humble, caring, and empathetic he is. People often forget that he is also a human being who enjoys living a simple life and doing basic things—that is what makes him truly great.” Gopal emphasized that while many admire Dhoni for his achievements on the field, it is his ability to stay humble and connected to the simple joys of life that sets him apart as a role model both on and off the pitch.

He further highlighted Dhoni’s unmatched tactical acumen, saying, “The biggest thing I’ve learned from Dhoni is how he manages players, how he decides who should bowl in a particular over, and how he uses tactics during a tournament. No one does it better than him. Everyone knows he is the best when it comes to captaincy, finishing matches, and handling stardom. Watching him and learning from him has been a big experience for me.” For Gopal, these lessons go beyond cricket—they are insights into leadership, patience, and strategic thinking that can be applied to any aspect of life.

Although Gopal did not get a chance to play in IPL 2025, he remains committed to staying with CSK, eager to continue learning from Dhoni. “Playing with Dhoni was a dream for many of us, maybe even billions. I got the chance last year, and I hope to continue playing with him for a few more years. The more he plays, the better it is for cricket. The advice and guidance we get from him in the dressing room are priceless. I feel very lucky to play for CSK and to play alongside and under Dhoni,” he said.

For young cricketers like Gopal, Dhoni is more than just a teammate; he is a mentor whose presence elevates the game for everyone around him. His ability to inspire, guide, and nurture talent continues to strengthen Indian cricket and the IPL, proving that MS Dhoni’s influence extends far beyond the runs scored or matches won. It is his humility, wisdom, and dedication that make him an enduring legend in the sport.