MS Dhoni’s impact transcends borders, extending far beyond his prowess on the cricket field. Renowned for nurturing young talent, Dhoni’s influence has significantly shaped the trajectory of numerous cricketers worldwide. Since assuming captaincy of the Indian cricket team in 2007, Dhoni has played a pivotal role in elevating players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to iconic status, particularly in the realm of batting. His mentorship extends to the IPL arena, where the Chennai Super Kings boast a record five title victories.
Dhoni’s Legacy of Mentoring
However, Dhoni’s mentoring prowess isn’t limited to Indian cricketers alone. Sri Lankan cricketer Matheesha Pathirana is a prime example of Dhoni’s discerning eye for talent. Pathirana, a staple in Sri Lanka’s limited-overs squad, caught Dhoni’s attention during his stint with CSK in 2022, which ultimately led to his international debut.
Acknowledging Dhoni’s Influence
In a heartfelt conversation on CSK’s official YouTube channel, Pathirana expressed profound gratitude towards Dhoni for his instrumental role in shaping his career. Describing Dhoni as a ‘father figure’ in his cricketing journey, Pathirana emphasized the invaluable guidance and support he received from the legendary cricketer. “After my father, in my cricket life, he (Dhoni) plays my father’s role. He takes care of me and gives me advice on what I have to do, similar to my father’s role when I’m at home. I think that’s enough,” shared Pathirana.
Pathirana’s Stellar Performance
Pathirana’s impact for CSK has been significant, contributing to the team’s success in the IPL. With an impressive tally of 19 wickets in 12 games during the previous IPL season, Pathirana played a crucial role in securing CSK’s record-tying fifth title. His stellar performance has continued in the current season, with 13 wickets in six games, placing him among the top ten contenders for the coveted Purple Cap.
