BCCI vice president Rajeev Shukla recently revealed a conversation he had with MS Dhoni about his potential future in politics. Shukla recounted asking Dhoni about the prospects of him contesting for a Lok Sabha seat, noting that he believed Dhoni 'could become a good politician'.
While the legendary Dhoni retired from international cricket in 2020, his popularity remains immense, both in India and globally. The former star wicketkeeper-batter's last appearance for the Indian team was during the 2019 ODI World Cup, where India suffered a heartbreaking loss to New Zealand in the semi-final.
Dhoni, who made his international debut in 2004, is celebrated for his remarkable achievements as both a cricketer and captain. He holds the unique distinction of being the only captain to have won all three major ICC white-ball trophies: the T20 World Cup in 2007, the ODI World Cup in 2011, and the Champions Trophy in 2013.
MS Dhoni's international career spanned 90 Tests, 350 ODIs, and 98 T20Is. In ODIs, he amassed 10,773 runs at an impressive average of 50.57, including 10 centuries. His contributions to Indian cricket are immeasurable, and he was rightfully named "Player of the Match" in the 2011 ODI World Cup final. Even after retiring from international cricket, Dhoni continues to be a force in the IPL, leading the Chennai Super Kings to their fifth title in 2023.
MS Dhoni to join politics? Rajeev Shukla reveals it all
Given his widespread popularity, many have speculated about why Dhoni hasn't ventured into politics. Rajeev Shukla shed some light on this topic during an interview with the BeerBiceps YouTube channel. He stated that Dhoni possesses the qualities necessary to succeed in politics. Shukla said that the decision ultimately rests with Dhoni, but expressed his belief that the former CSK captain would be very successful if he chose to enter the political arena.
“I feel Dhoni can become a politician.It is up to him if he will become a politician or not. Sourav, I always felt he would enter Bengal politics. Dhoni can also be good in politics. He will win easily, he is popular. I don't know if he will enter politics, it is purely in his hands,” Shukla said.
Rajeev Shukla revealed that he had directly inquired with MS Dhoni about the rumors circulating regarding his potential entry into politics and contesting elections. Shukla explained that Dhoni prefers to maintain a low profile and stay out of the limelight.
“I asked him once that I heard that he was going to contest for Lok Sabha seat, he said ‘No, no, no’. It is nature to stay hidden, he doesn't even keep a mobile phone with him. It was even hard for the BCCI selectors to approach him, as there was no mobile with him. It is his nature to go away from fame or whatever is his nature. He is not a hermit. He does things seriously, there is no lightness in it,” Shukla concluded.
RAJEEV SHUKLA COOKED MS DHONI 💔😭.
— Totla Seth (@LolRounder) February 1, 2025
RANVEER - Who can become the best Politician?
RAJEEV SHUKLA - MS DHONI 😂 pic.twitter.com/11MWc7529w
Dhoni is currently gearing up for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 which is set to start from March 21. With no announcement of his retirement from the IPL, the possibility of him venturing into politics seems remote at this time.