Cricket

MS Dhoni, the legendary Indian cricketer and former captain, recently displayed his humility and warmth during a flight, winning the hearts of fans once more. A video shared on social media captured Dhoni boarding a plane with his wife, Sakshi, and daughter, Ziva.As Dhoni made his way down the aisle, he greeted passengers with handshakes and smiles, embodying the humility that has endeared him to millions. This simple yet heartfelt gesture thrilled everyone on board, with fans on social media commending him for staying grounded despite his massive fame.Dhoni's humility is a testament to his character and the values he holds. Despite his illustrious career and numerous accolades, he remains approachable and genuine. This quality has made him a role model for aspiring cricketers and fans alike.After announcing his retirement from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni wrapped up an illustrious career spanning nearly 16 years. He remains India's most successful limited-overs captain, leading the team to monumental victories in the 2007 T20 World Cup, the 2011 ODI World Cup, and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy.Dhoni's leadership and composure in high-pressure situations have set a standard for future generations of cricketers. His ability to inspire and motivate his team, along with his strategic brilliance, has made him one of the greatest captains in the history of the game.Off the field, Dhoni is known for his philanthropy and social work. He has been involved in various initiatives to support underprivileged communities and promote education. His humility and compassion extend beyond the cricket field, making him a true ambassador for the sport and a role model for society.

Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni: A Tale of Two CaptainsRohit Sharma and MS Dhoni, two of the most successful captains in Indian cricket history, have led the national team to numerous victories and ICC titles. While Dhoni won three ICC trophies during his tenure, Rohit opened his account with the T20 World Cup triumph in 2024.Over the past year, Rohit's leadership has been highly praised, particularly for his ability to guide the team through challenging situations. However, comparing the two captains is a difficult task, especially for players who have played under both.Shivam Dube, who has played under Dhoni at Chennai Super Kings and Rohit in the Indian team, was recently asked to choose between the two. His response was both diplomatic and insightful."When I am playing for Chennai, MS Dhoni is the best, when I am playing for India, Rohit Sharma is the best," Dube said.This answer highlights the different strengths of each captain. Dhoni is known for his calm demeanor, strategic brilliance, and ability to inspire his players. Rohit, on the other hand, is a more aggressive leader who leads by example and encourages his team to play with freedom.Rohit Sharma, who was also a guest on the show, spoke about the intense pressure during the T20 World Cup 2024 final against South Africa."They had wickets in plenty and a settled batter on the field. We were all tense, freaking out. But at that moment, a captain has to show a strong front for the whole team, signaling that there is no need to panic," Rohit said.He further added that the team expected South Africa to face similar challenges in their batting lineup, which ended at the seventh position."We had to take a wicket at any cost since Klaasen and Miller were playing," Rohit said.It was at this point that Pant went down with an injury concern, and the break in the game helped Team India disrupt South Africa's momentum.The contrasting leadership styles of Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni have both proven successful for the Indian cricket team. While Dhoni's calm and strategic approach has led to numerous victories, Rohit's aggressive and inspiring leadership has also brought success. Ultimately, the choice between the two captains depends on the specific needs and circumstances of the team.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Rohit Sharma, two legendary Indian cricketers, have both left an indelible mark on the game as captains. Dhoni, known for his astute leadership and tactical brilliance, led India to unprecedented success, winning the T20 World Cup (2007), ODI World Cup (2011), and Champions Trophy (2013). Rohit, on the other hand, has emerged as a charismatic and progressive leader, guiding India to the 2024 T20 World Cup title.While Dhoni's captaincy was characterized by his calm demeanor and strategic decision-making, Rohit's approach is more collaborative and empowering. According to former India spinner Harbhajan Singh, Rohit's ability to connect with his teammates and seek their input sets him apart."Rohit is people's captain. He goes up to the people and asks them what they want. His teammates connect with him very well," Singh said.In contrast, Dhoni's leadership style was more introspective and authoritative. "He didn't talk to anyone. He wanted to convey his thoughts through his silence. It was his way of communicating with others," Singh added.Despite their contrasting styles, both Dhoni and Rohit have been highly successful as captains. Dhoni's legacy as one of the greatest leaders in cricket history is secure, while Rohit has proven himself to be a worthy successor, leading India to new heights."The better captain is the one who makes you fight for victory. For me, what Dhoni has done as captain, Rohit has also done it. He is no lesser than anyone," Singh said.Rohit's decision to retire from T20I cricket after India's World Cup triumph in 2024 has paved the way for Suryakumar Yadav to take over the reins in the shortest format. However, Rohit continues to lead the Indian team in ODIs and Tests, where he has enjoyed considerable success.Recently, Rohit-led India registered a 2-0 clean sweep over Bangladesh in the ODI series, showcasing the team's dominance under his leadership.

Virat Kohli's tenure as India's captain across all formats ended without an ICC trophy, but former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh believes that doesn't diminish his legacy as a leader.Speaking to 'Sports Yaari,' Harbhajan emphasized that Kohli instilled a fighting spirit and a belief in taking on challenges head-on. He cited the heroic Border-Gavaskar Trophy triumph in Australia in 2020-21 as an example.Despite Kohli's absence for the final three Tests due to the birth of his child, the team's determination to chase down daunting targets and never give up was evident. Harbhajan attributed this mindset to Kohli's influence."The fire that he ignited in the team, like it may be a target of 400 in the fourth innings of a Test, we'll go for the chase, we won't panic. If we go down, we do it while chasing," Harbhajan said.He highlighted the performances of Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant in the fourth Test at the Gabba, where India chased down over 300 to clinch the series."That determination to fight till the end, which Shubman and Rishabh showed to win that Test in Gabba. It was because the way the team's thinking changed," Harbhajan concluded.While Kohli may not have led India to an ICC trophy, Harbhajan believes his legacy as a captain lies in the fire and belief he instilled in the team, which continues to reap benefits today.

Former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif has suggested that Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) should consider acquiring Rohit Sharma as their captain ahead of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) auction. Kaif's proposal stems from the recent announcement of IPL's retention and auction rules, as well as rumors surrounding Rohit's future with Mumbai Indians (MI).Rohit, the current Indian skipper, has led MI to five IPL titles. However, MI's disappointing performance in the 2024 season, where they finished last with only four wins, has raised questions about his future with the franchise.Kaif believes that RCB, despite boasting star players like Virat Kohli and Chris Gayle, has never won an IPL trophy due to a lack of effective leadership. He argues that Rohit's exceptional captaincy skills, evident in his recent ICC T20 World Cup victory, could transform RCB's fortunes."RCB should take this chance. Somehow convince Rohit and make him the captain. He might not score that much as a batter, he scores forties and fifties, but I believe Rohit knows how to build a playing eleven very well," Kaif said.Kaif emphasized that Rohit should focus solely on captaincy in the IPL, given his proven track record as a leader. "Rohit Sharma should play as a captain only in the IPL because he is such a great captain. He has come after winning the T20 World Cup. He would have offers. We know people would have been calling him and asking him to play for them. I feel he should take the role of a captain only, whichever franchise is offering it," he said.Rohit's impressive IPL record, with 6,628 runs at an average of 29.72 and a strike rate of 131.14, further supports Kaif's suggestion. His ability to build a cohesive team and inspire players to perform at their best could be the key to RCB's long-awaited IPL triumph.

Tim Southee, the veteran New Zealand fast bowler, has relinquished his role as Test captain following the team's disappointing series defeat in Sri Lanka. Southee, who took over the captaincy from Kane Williamson in 2022, has led the Blackcaps in 14 Tests, winning six, losing six, and drawing two.Southee's decision to step down stems from his belief that it is in the best interests of the team. He expressed his honor and privilege in captaining the Blackcaps in the Test format, but acknowledged that he needs to focus on his own performances to regain his best form."I believe the way I can best serve the team moving forward is focusing on my performances on the field and getting back to my best, to continue taking wickets and helping New Zealand win Test matches," Southee said.Southee's form has been under scrutiny this year, with the 34-year-old taking just 12 wickets in his last eight Tests. His place in the team for the upcoming tour of India was uncertain, but he will now return to the selection mix without the burden of captaincy.Tom Latham, who has previously captained the Test side on nine occasions, will take over the reins from Southee. Latham is a highly respected figure within the team and has a proven track record of success.Head coach Gary Stead praised Southee's selflessness and acknowledged his continued importance to the Test side. "Tim's a fantastic player and a very good leader who is held in high regard by the players and support staff," Stead said. "He's one of our greatest ever players and we still very much see him playing a part in our Test side moving forward."NZC CEO Scott Weenink echoed Stead's sentiments, commending Southee's leadership and team-first attitude. "To me, that's the sign of a true leader in every sense of the word," Weenink said.New Zealand's 15-player squad for the three-Test tour of India will be announced in the coming days.

Virat Kohli, the enigmatic Indian cricket star, has faced scrutiny over perceived changes in his demeanor. However, his long-time teammate, fast bowler Ishant Sharma, has vehemently refuted such claims, asserting that their bond remains unyielding.Sharma, who has shared a close friendship with Kohli since their youth, believes that the responsibilities of captaincy may have subtly altered Kohli's approach. However, he emphasizes that fame and time have not fundamentally transformed the star batter."I don't know who said that he [Kohli] has changed," Sharma said in an interview with MyKhel. "But with me, the kind of relationship we share, he never changed for me. We've been playing together since U-17, so, you know, we are 36 now, I think he'll be 36 soon. So, we've been playing together for, I don't know, for even, you know, more than 10 years, 15 years. So, he hasn't changed for me."Sharma acknowledges that the demands of captaincy can necessitate a shift in focus. "I think, obviously if you're a captain, there are certain responsibilities that come. You don't have to see him as a captain, you have to see him as an individual. So, if he's a captain, he has to look after 15 players. So, he can't only focus on one player who's not playing."Despite these adjustments, Sharma maintains that Kohli's core values remain intact. "When he was captain, whenever I was not playing, I could go to his room and talk about why I'm not playing, even why I'm playing, we strategized. So, I think it's all about communication. I had a very good communication level with him because I know that he's my friend at the same time, you know, been playing for so long. So, he hasn't changed for me."Sharma's unwavering support for Kohli underscores the enduring nature of their friendship. Despite the challenges and scrutiny that come with being a high-profile athlete, their bond has remained steadfast.

Rohit Sharma, the enigmatic Indian skipper, has become synonymous with high expectations in the cricketing world. As the leader of the ODI and Test teams, Rohit's every move is scrutinized, with fans and experts alike eagerly anticipating his next triumph.In a recent interview, Rohit candidly acknowledged the constant pressure that comes with his stature. "Expectations will never end," he said. "If you have won this World Cup, you'll be asked to win the next World Cup that is coming up."Rohit's ability to score colossal hundreds, particularly in ODIs, has set him apart as a batting maestro. His record of three double centuries in the format is a testament to his prolificacy. Fans expect him to continue anchoring the Indian innings and delivering crucial runs at the top, especially in high-stakes matches.In ICC tournaments, Rohit has etched his name in history with memorable performances. In the 2019 Cricket World Cup, he amassed five centuries, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion. Experts and fans alike anticipate him replicating such form in future global events, making match-winning contributions when it matters most.Beyond his batting prowess, Rohit's calm demeanor is seen as a key strength. Whether it's leading the team in tense chases or responding to setbacks, his composure is crucial to India's success. As a batsman and captain, he exudes control and inspires confidence in his teammates.As a senior member of the squad, Rohit's fitness and fielding standards are closely monitored. Fans expect him to lead by example, maintaining a high level of fitness and contributing to the team's fielding efforts. With the added responsibility of captaincy, his commitment to physical excellence is even more important.In conclusion, Rohit Sharma is expected to be both a run machine and a strong leader, guiding India with his experience and tactical nous. As he continues to perform at the highest level on the global stage, the expectations from him will only intensify.

India's Captaincy Conundrum: Who Will Lead if Rohit Sharma is Unavailable?With the second Test against Bangladesh looming, the question of who will captain India if Rohit Sharma is injured or unavailable remains unanswered. Traditionally, the team's vice-captain would assume the leadership role, but no vice-captain has been named for this series.Assistant coach Abhishek Nayar has clarified that the team does not require a designated vice-captain. He highlighted the presence of several players with leadership qualities and captaincy experience at the highest level."We have got a lot of IPL captains in this team," Nayar said. "Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Yashasvi Jaiswal have all led their franchises. I wouldn't look at them as youngsters anymore. They have the leadership qualities that are required."Nayar also emphasized that the team's decision-making regarding the playing XI will be influenced by the pitch conditions and weather forecast."We don't know which surface we are going to play on yet," Nayar said. "Kanpur is often known to have good pitches, but we are not sure about the bounce. The conditions and forecast will be a huge factor in how the pitch plays."All players are currently fit and available for selection, according to Nayar.