MS Dhoni gets a breather as Yograj Singh makes a U-turn

Yograj Singh, former cricketer and father of Yuvraj Singh, has surprised many by openly praising former Indian captain MS Dhoni. Yograj Singh, over the years, has earned a reputation as a staunch critic of the World Cup winning skipper. However, months after he ruffled feathers again with a scathing statement against Dhoni, Singh seems to have softened a bit. In his latest interaction, Yuvraj's father praised Mahendra Singh Dhoni for his leadership and fearless approach on the field. Known for his harsh criticism especially regarding his perceived role in Yuvraj's career struggles, Yograj's recent remarks marked a rare shift.

MS Dhoni gets a rare praise from Yograj Singh

MS Dhoni, who captained India to victory in the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup, had previously been criticized by Yuvraj's father for allegedly hampering his son's career despite his crucial contributions to those iconic triumphs. Though Yuvraj took a different stance on the matter, expressing his gratitude to Dhoni, the cricketer explained that Dhoni had given him an unfiltered opinion, telling him that the selectors were not considering him for the 2019 ODI World Cup. This harsh but truthful revelation helped Yuvraj's psyche brace for the axe. Now, in a recent interview, Yograj Singh referred to Dhoni as a highly motivated captain with exceptional game awareness, particularly in his ability to read the pitch.

“I find Dhoni as a very motivated captain, who can tell people what to do,” Yograj said. “The best thing about Dhoni was that he could read the wicket can tell bowlers where to bowl,” he added.

Notably, Yuvraj Singh flourished under Dhoni's leadership, but his father, Yograj, had often blamed Dhoni for his son's early exit from international cricket. It appears that Yograj has softened his stance on Dhoni, as he recalled a specific moment showcasing Dhoni’s fearless leadership. Meanwhile, Dhoni, now retired from international cricket, is set to return to action in the next season of the Indian Premier League. The Chennai Super Kings, who retained him as an uncapped player following the BCCI's new retention rules for retired players, will welcome him back for another season of IPL cricket.

“What I liked the most about him was that he was a fearless man. If you remember in Australia, he was hit on the grill by Mitchell Johnson and he didn’t moved a bit, he stood there and next ball he pulled him for a six. Aise log kaafi kam hote hai (There are very few people like him),” he said.