MS Dhoni was behind Jharkhand’s historic victory, this is how he made the team win by making strategy behind the scenes

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025: Jharkhand cricket team led by Ishan Kishan recently created history by winning the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title. This is the first T20 trophy in the domestic cricket history of Jharkhand, which has given a new identity to the cricket of the state. After the spectacular victory of this team adorned with youth, everyone from the players to the captain was highly appreciated.

MS Dhoni’s strategic role came to light

However, an important name behind this historic success was that of former Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Jharkhand State Cricket Association’s Joint Secretary Shahbaz Nadeem has revealed that before the start of the season, MS Dhoni’s advice was taken in every major decision, from team selection to the appointment of coaching staff. Dhoni not only gave suggestions but also played an active role in the entire process.

Dhoni’s cricketing mind is still as sharp

MS Dhoni, who changed the direction of the match from behind the wicket during his international career, is considered a mastermind of strategy. Be it field setting or giving precise advice to the bowlers, Dhoni has been an expert in every aspect. Even after retiring from international cricket, his cricketing mind is fully active, the effect of which is now clearly visible in domestic cricket.

Strong victory in the final against Haryana

Under the captaincy of Ishan Kishan, Jharkhand defeated Haryana by 69 runs in the final match of Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Along with the collective performance of the team, strategy also played an important role in this victory. Young players like Kumar Kushagra performed well throughout the tournament and contributed a lot in making the team champion.

Dhoni keeps an eye on the statistics of every player

According to Shahbaz Nadeem, MS Dhoni keeps a close eye on the performance and statistics of every domestic player of Jharkhand. He told that at the beginning of the season, the appointment of head coach Ratan Kumar and bowling coach Sunny Gupta was also done on the advice of Dhoni.

Shahbaz Nadeem’s statement to ESPNcricinfo

Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Shahbaz Nadeem said, “Right from the beginning of the season, we took Dhoni bhai’s advice in the selection of the coaching staff and players. He follows every match closely and knows the strengths and weaknesses of every player from Jharkhand very well. It is very inspiring for such a big player to take so much interest in the state team.”

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Dhoni retired from international cricket in August 2020, but is still seen on the field through IPL. Along with this, he is playing an important role in strengthening Jharkhand cricket by staying behind the scenes. His thinking and guidance have made Jharkhand fulfill its dream of becoming champion at the national level for the first time.