MS Dhoni is probably one of the biggest names to play the game of cricket in history. He has been regarded as India’s best and, overall, one of the best captains of all time. In fact, he is the only captain in history to lead his nation to win the Champions Trophy, the ODI World Cup, and the T20 World Cup.
But what makes him so successful as a leader? It is his keeping, his ability to finish, or his incredible on-field tactics. However, one important part of Dhoni’s successful captaincy over the years has been how he grooms new talent.
Despite retiring from international cricket in 2019, he is still playing in the Indian Premier League and leading the Chennai Super Kings. He recently led CSK to win the IPL 2023. Many stars wish to play under him. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s young bowling sensation, Matheesha Pathirana, has credited the former Indian captain for his T20 success.
Known as “Baby Malinga,” Pathirana was seen in action in the ongoing Lanka Premier League 2023 for the Colombo Strikers. Though his team couldn’t make it to the playoffs, his individual performances were impressive. He is the joint-leading wicket-taker in the tournament, with 12 wickets in 8 innings.
Notably, Pathirana was part of the CSK team that won the IPL 2023. He became the strike bowler for his team, which also earned him a place in the Sri Lankan team. In a recent interview, he said, “When someone of that calibre puts their faith in you, it installs huge confidence. Not only me but all of us felt inspired by MS Dhoni’s trust and support.”
Pathirana took 19 wickets for CSK in the IPL 2023 in 12 games at 8.01. He also said that MS Dhoni’s humility is one of his biggest traits of success. He also praised the former Indian captain for his fitness, even at the age of 42.
