Sanjiv Goenka, owner of the Lucknow Super Giants, surprised many by recently praising MS Dhoni. This comes despite Goenka removing Dhoni as captain of his previous IPL team, the Rising Pune Supergiants, back in 2017.
Dhoni, still a vital part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), continues to impress fans with his on-field performances despite injuries. Goenka, speaking on a recent podcast, acknowledged Dhoni’s exceptional leadership qualities.
“He’s an amazing leader, constantly thinking and adapting,” Goenka said. “Even now, he’s finding new talent, like bowler Pathirana. He knows how to get the best out of his players, and I always learn something when I talk to him.”
WATCH: Sanjay Goenka Shares Heartwarming Interaction Between his Grandson and MS Dhoni
Goenka also shared a heartwarming anecdote about Dhoni’s interaction with his cricket-loving grandson.
“I have an 11-year-old grandson who is crazy about cricket. Dhoni in my home taught him how to play cricket, some 5-6 years ago. He constantly asked him questions, and I told my grandson, ‘Leave him now.’ Dhoni replied, ‘Let it be; I am enjoying this conversation.’ Dhoni went on to have a conversation with him for half an hour. This human quality with a kid where he spent so much time for a kid. It makes you learn how to speak with others, and that is why he is Dhoni. Whenever he plays against Lucknow, the entire stadium is filled with yellow to support him,” he added.
Even when busy, Dhoni patiently spent time answering the child’s questions, showcasing his genuine personality. This, Goenka believes, is a big part of Dhoni’s enduring popularity.
Dhoni, the IPL’s most experienced player and a joint record-holder for most captaincy wins (alongside Rohit Sharma), remains a key figure for CSK. Dhoni had led CSK to five IPL titles in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023, before relinquishing captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad in IPL 2024. He was retained by the franchise for the upcoming IPL season for Rs 4 crore.
This unexpected praise from Goenka highlights Dhoni’s lasting impact on the game and his ability to command respect even from those with whom he’s had disagreements.
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