A recent video circulating on social media, allegedly showing MS Dhoni, the former Indian cricket captain, smoking hookah, has garnered significant attention and sparked discussions among fans. The footage, which appeared to be captured at a private gathering, was a surprising sight for many, given Dhoni's reputation for maintaining high fitness levels, even post-retirement.
The video, reportedly taken during Dhoni's New Year celebrations in Dubai, features him alongside cricketer Rishabh Pant and Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon. However, the authenticity, exact date, and time of the video remain unconfirmed. It is believed to have been filmed at a private party recently.
Watch the video here:
This incident has brought back to light a past comment made by George Bailey, Dhoni's former teammate at Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The ex-Australian captain had previously remarked on Dhoni's occasional indulgence in smoking hookah, mentioning it as a way for Dhoni to bond with younger players and ease the atmosphere.
"He likes smoking a bit of the sheesha or the hookah. So, he quite often would set that up in his room, and it was very much open door policy. You would go in and quite often find a lot of younger players there. For India or lot of other cricket teams, it can be hierarchical, but he certainly broke that down," revealed Bailey.
"You just find yourself in his room late at night chatting inevitably about the game or about different facets of the game or about different people and with different people it's a great way to break down barriers," he added.
Dhoni, known for his calm demeanor and strategic acumen on the cricket field, has often been admired for his commitment to fitness and his disciplined lifestyle. Thus, the emergence of this video has come as a surprise to many of his admirers and followers on social media, causing a stir and leading to varied reactions.
While Dhoni's personal life is usually kept private, instances like these, where glimpses into his off-field moments are revealed, tend to capture significant public interest. The video and Bailey's past comments have opened up a rare window into the more relaxed and personal side of one of cricket's most celebrated figures.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
Ravichandran Ashwin shuts Michael Vaughan for saying India is an 'underachieving' side; provides logical explanation
Afghanistan's 19-member squad for three-T20I series against India announced; Rashid Khan returns after injury but doubtful to play
