Cricket

MS Dhoni Emphasizes Importance of Fear and Right Player Recruitment for SuccessChennai Super Kings (CSK) legend MS Dhoni has highlighted the significance of fear and the right player recruitment strategy for team success. Dhoni, who has led CSK to five Indian Premier League (IPL) titles, believes that fear is essential for improvement and that teams should prioritize recruiting players who fit their environment rather than chasing big names.In a video released by CSK, Dhoni explained that fear drives him to make the right decisions under pressure. "Fear is very important. You need to have that fear because unless, if I don't have fear, I can never be brave. I can never be courageous, you know. So I always felt that fear is important, that the pressure is important because that helps me take the right decision, keeping everything in mind," he said.Dhoni also emphasized the importance of getting the most out of each individual player rather than focusing on acquiring the biggest names. "We get a very good player on our team, but he's drastically different from our environment. So what do we look for? We want him to take that one step towards the team's goal and we are happy to take three steps towards him. But let's say that's not the case. The second best thing is you keep doing what you are doing but don't disrupt us. That's the second-best option. The third is you have to let him go," he explained.Dhoni believes that if a big player struggles to fit into the team environment, it is acceptable to let them go, as the team's interests should always come first. "But he also needs to be willing to take that step. If he doesn't take that first step, I can take the second option but at some point of time (I will have to take a call). I don't want the whole team to adapt to the individual because that is wrong. So, you have to let him go. He may be the greatest player but you have to let him go. Somebody else will come and take his place. He may not be as good as him but he will help the team perform better," he added.Dhoni's insights underscore the importance of creating a cohesive team environment where players are willing to contribute to the collective goal. By embracing fear, recruiting the right players, and prioritizing team success over individual brilliance, CSK has consistently achieved remarkable results under Dhoni's leadership.

Fear and Pressure: Essential Ingredients for Courage, Says MS DhoniLegendary cricketer MS Dhoni believes that fear and pressure are crucial elements in shaping an individual's character and decision-making abilities. In a recent video shared by Chennai Super Kings, Dhoni emphasized the importance of these emotions in fostering courage and recklessness."Fear is very important," Dhoni stated. "Unless you have fear, you can never be brave or courageous. It helps you make the right decisions, keeping everything in mind." He further explained that the absence of fear can lead to recklessness and a disregard for potential consequences.Dhoni highlighted that fear and pressure are essential for personal growth and development. "If you are fearless, then you will be reckless," he said. "You won't respect the normal things or the dangers involved."Dhoni's insights stem from his illustrious career as a cricketer, where he led the Chennai Super Kings to a record five Indian Premier League titles. Despite stepping down as captain before the current season, Dhoni remains an integral part of the team.Speculations have been rife about Dhoni's potential retirement from the tournament, but CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has stated that the decision ultimately rests with the former India captain. Viswanathan expressed optimism that Dhoni will continue to play for CSK in the 2025 IPL season.Dhoni's performance in the recently concluded season was impressive, despite undergoing knee surgery last year. He scored 161 runs in 73 balls at a strike rate of 220.55 and displayed his exceptional skills behind the stumps.With a mega IPL auction scheduled later this year, CSK is expected to retain Dhoni if he decides to continue playing. However, the number of players allowed to be retained remains unclear. Viswanathan stated that discussions with the BCCI are yet to take place regarding the retention rules.