Saurabh Tiwary who recently retired from professional cricket has hailed former India captain MS Dhoni for putting Jharkhand on the map. A winning member of India's Under-19 World Cup 2008 side led by Virat Kohli, Tiwary became famous for his likeness to Dhoni.
Tiwary who played three ODIs is one of the few Jharkhand cricketers including Varun Aaron and Dhoni to represent India on the international stage. The 34-year-old explained how Dhoni helps Jharkhand cricketers.
"MS Dhoni is the God of Jharkhand cricket. Ever since he started playing for India, people started knowing us as a team. They came to know where Jharkhand is. MS Dhoni gave us confidence and Jharkhand is one of the best teams in the domestic circuit. Whenever he is around or in the town, he comes to attend our practice sessions. Dhoni Bhaiya also gives advice to us before every match. Sometimes, he takes part in the warm-up games also. Dhoni bhaiya's support is everything for us," Saurabh told Sports Now.
Tiwary praises Dhoni’s helping nature
After leading India to wins in T20 World Cup 2007, ODI World Cup 2011, and ICC Champions Trophy, Dhoni announced his retirement from international cricket in 2020. He continues to represent Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and is credited for the turnaround of several cricketers. Tiwary lauds Dhoni for backing the players irrespective of their form.
"He will stand by you even if you are not performing. He gives a lot of chances to the players. Apart from leading the team, when Dhoni Bhaiya is standing behind the wicket, he helps the bowlers a lot. He would tell you how the wicket is responding and also he will help you with accurate field placements," he added.
Tiwary retires, Dhoni ready for IPL 2024
Tiwary retired from professional cricket in February 2024 after making his final appearance in the Ranji Trophy.
Meanwhile, a 42-year-old Dhoni is preparing for the upcoming IPL edition. The defending champions CSK will take on Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the season opener at their homeground on March 22.
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