MS Dhoni Explains Why Commentary Isn't in His Future Plans
In a revealing conversation that has captured the attention of cricket fans across India, the legendary former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has made it clear that he has no intentions of joining the commentary box after retirement. The enigmatic cricketer, who led India to three prestigious ICC titles during his illustrious career, described commentary as a "difficult" profession that requires a delicate balancing act he finds challenging.
The Fine Line Between Description and Criticism
During an engaging YouTube interaction with sports broadcaster Jatin Sapru, Dhoni elaborated on what makes commentary particularly demanding for him. "Commentary is very difficult," Dhoni stated thoughtfully. "I feel there is a very fine line between describing the game and in that process getting into a zone where you start criticising individuals who are playing the game. It's a very thin line."
The 44-year-old cricket icon, who has maintained a relatively low profile in public cricket discussions since his retirement in 2020, explained that commentators often don't realize when they might be crossing that line. "Often, you don't even feel that what you are doing is maybe borderline wrong," he observed. "You would always like to be on the other side where you are describing the game. If you feel something is wrong you say it out."
Dhoni emphasized the artistry required in commentary, particularly when discussing team performances. "How to put it, that is also an art, how to politely put it forward where nobody feels targeted," he explained. "If the team is losing there are reasons behind it, and you need to have the skill of describing those reasons without anybody feeling bad. That is the art of commentary."
The Statistical Challenge That Works Against Him
Beyond the nuanced communication aspects, Dhoni candidly admitted that his relationship with cricket statistics presents another significant barrier to commentary work. "I'm not good with stats," he confessed with characteristic honesty. "But there are a lot of people who are very good with stats. They know stats...If you ask me about my stats, I'll be like hmmm and there are certain people who know stats about not just Indian cricket team or the Indian players but everyone throughout the era."
This admission is particularly interesting given that Dhoni's current cricket involvement is primarily limited to his appearances for Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League, where statistics play a crucial role in modern cricket analysis and broadcasting.
Dhoni's Communication Style: A Good Listener Who Struggles with Phones
Renowned for his calm and calculated decision-making during his playing days, Dhoni also discussed his general approach to communication when asked whether he seeks advice on cricket or life matters. The celebrated wicketkeeper-batter revealed that he rarely feels the need for external counsel, attributing this to his natural inclination toward listening rather than speaking.
"I'm a very good listener," Dhoni shared. "Yes I do speak with people who I'm comfortable with. But I'm more of a listener than a speaker. And if I don't know about the topic I don't speak much because I will be absorbing more if I'm listening."
He elaborated on this philosophy, noting that "being a good listener you don't always have to look for advice...They keep floating around just with certain people who you are having a conversation with." Dhoni added, "You need to have that intelligence to figure out what works the best for you."
In a lighter moment that revealed more about his personality, Dhoni confessed with a broad smile that he still struggles with telephone conversations. "I'm not good in that way of communicating," he admitted. "I like to sit across and speak to people. I'm not someone who's very good over the phone because I can't see a face. So, I'm a very awkward guy when it comes to speaking on the phone."
With his trademark humor, Dhoni joked about this personal quirk, saying "So that's something I want to improve but I'm glad I haven't improved." He offered an amusing perspective on mobile phone evolution, noting that "when initially mobile phones came it was for the benefit of the people who own the phone. Now your mobile phone is for my benefit."
Dhoni's insights provide a fascinating glimpse into the mindset of one of cricket's most successful captains, revealing why the commentary box—a popular post-retirement destination for many cricketing legends—doesn't align with his strengths and personality. His current focus remains on his IPL commitments with Chennai Super Kings, while cricket enthusiasts continue to appreciate his contributions to the sport through his playing career rather than broadcasting.
