India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) pace bowler Tushar Deshpande shared an inspiring moment with MS Dhoni that had a profound impact on his career. Deshpande recalled a crucial conversation he had with the legendary cricketer during CSK’s preparatory camp for the 2023 season.
MS Dhoni, known for his exceptional mentoring and leadership skills, has been a role model for young cricketers over the years and will remain with CSK. It is noteworthy that the former Indian captain stepped down from his post as CSK captain before the start of IPL 2024 earlier this year.
Tushar Deshpande recalls how MS Dhoni’s support boosted his confidence
Deshpande revealed that MS Dhoni, known for supporting young talents, expressed confidence in his potential to succeed on the international stage during their discussion.
The legendary wicket-keeper stressed the importance of maintaining composure and concentration, and advised Tushar Deshpande not to be intimidated by the crowd and to concentrate solely on his shooting.
MS Dhoni’s words were not just an encouragement for Tushar Deshpande, who has experienced ups and downs in his career and found the former CSK captain’s mentorship valuable.
The confidence bestowed upon him by a cricketing legend like MS Dhoni, who has mentored numerous players and helped them improve their game, was a big boost to Deshpande’s confidence. Recalling his former captain’s words, the player said it was an achievement for him to receive praise and be predicted for a great career.
“You have everything to succeed”: Dhoni’s message to Deshpande
ESPNCricinfo quoted Tushar Deshpande as saying: “[Dhoni told me]’You have everything to succeed at international level, but you have to be calm during the run-up to the match. Don’t get distracted by the crowd. Just take a deep breath, stay calm and play. If Mahi tells you that you have everything to succeed at international level, boss, that in itself is an achievement.’
He had a tough start to the IPL 2023 season with a disappointing performance against the Gujarat Titans where he took 1 wicket for 51 runs in 3.2 overs. Despite his poor run of form, the former CSK captain stood by Teshar, encouraging him to continue with his bowling approach in the upcoming match as well.
Tushar Deshpande added: “Mahi came to me and said, ‘You have not made any mistake. All the balls you bowled were good. Today was not your day. In the next match, repeat the same.’”
Tushar Deshpande recalls how MS Dhoni helped him get back into form
The player further revealed that Dhoni spent his time working with him during net sessions. Moreover, Deshpande recalled a particular practice session where he faced Dhoni in a match simulation. During this session, Dhoni hit a six off Deshpande’s delivery and then jokingly reprimanded him for not bowling a yorker.
Deshpande shared, “I was bowling some good yorkers, but suddenly I bowled a bouncer and got hit for a six off 100 metres. He asked me, ‘Kyun daala bouncer?’ [Why did you bowl the bouncer?] I told him I thought he was waiting for the yorker. He said, “Don’t play cricket with your mind. A yorker is a yorker and nobody can hit you.”
The CSK player concluded by saying that Dhoni had given him a simple piece of advice: “He told me that we should keep trying to play with anticipation instead of concentrating on the present. The other thing he told me is to focus on my fitness, which is important for fast bowlers.”
