Ashwin's Journey to Dhoni's Approval: From Unknown to Key Cog

Ravichandran Ashwin, India's prolific spinner, has unveiled his aspiration as a young cricketer: to earn the recognition of MS Dhoni. Despite his current status as one of the most formidable bowlers of his generation, Ashwin's journey began as a budding player in the Chennai Super Kings squad, eagerly awaiting his opportunity.

In his recently launched book, "I Have the Streets - A Kutti Cricket Story," Ashwin recounts his arduous path to gaining Dhoni's attention, which culminated in 2009. Despite being selected by Chennai Super Kings in 2008, Ashwin admits that Dhoni was unaware of his presence during the inaugural IPL season.

"MS Dhoni didn't even know someone like me existed in 2008. So, I made it my life goal, from 2009, to get the wicket of MS Dhoni," Ashwin reveals.

Ashwin's determination manifested in an exceptional performance at the Challenger Trophy in Nagpur. "I bowled an unbelievable spell. MS struggled throughout the spell. Once, when he tried to play, the ball went through the gates. I got him out in the final," Ashwin recalls.

This pivotal moment marked a turning point in Ashwin's career. "From then on, MS Dhoni saw me as someone with skill, and the relationship matured," he says.

While Ashwin played only two games in IPL 2009, he became an integral part of CSK's lineup from 2010 onwards, contributing to the franchise's maiden IPL title.

Ashwin attributes his success to Dhoni's unwavering belief in his abilities. "If MS decides a horse is not ready to race, he won't use you. He needs to know you're a horse. But once he knows you're a horse, he will look past you only when you feel like giving up," Ashwin explains.

"That is MS Dhoni. He believes in you," he adds.

Ashwin's recent appointment at India Cements and his potential return to CSK in the upcoming IPL season further cement his bond with the franchise and its iconic captain.

Tags: #RavichandranAshwin, #MSD, #ChennaiSuperKings, #IPL, #Cricket