Amit Mishra Reflects on His Journey with MS Dhoni: A Story of Gratitude

Amit Mishra celebrates with Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni (Photo by Scott Barbour/Getty Images)

Acknowledging the Past

Ex-India cricketer Amit Mishra has taken a reflective stance regarding his relationship with Mahendra Singh Dhoni. He shared, “People say if Dhoni was not there my career would have been better. But who knows? Maybe if he was not there, I wouldn’t even have been in the team.”

Dhoni: A Supportive Mentor

Mishra’s initial journey with the Indian team is intrinsically linked to Dhoni, highlighting the captain’s role in his career. “I came into the team under him,” Mishra said. He acknowledged that it was Dhoni’s belief in him that allowed him to make multiple comebacks, demonstrating a positive outlook on their relationship.

No Feelings of Neglect

Despite the perception that Dhoni favored other spin options, Mishra never felt unsupported. He remarked, “Whenever I was in the XI, it wasn’t like Dhoni didn’t offer tips or guidance. He was always there for me.”

A Defining Game Moment

Mishra recalled a significant memory from his playing days while facing New Zealand during his last ODI series. “It was a tight match with scores around 260-270 runs. I focused more on stopping runs than taking wickets,” he explained. This strategy, however, did not resonate with Dhoni.

Dhoni’s Crucial Advice

After a few overs, Dhoni approached Mishra and urged him to return to his natural bowling style. “He told me not to overthink and to bowl as I normally do,” Mishra recalled. This simple yet effective advice transformed the game for Mishra.

Game-Changing Performance

Following Dhoni’s guidance, Mishra was able to secure a breakthrough, ultimately claiming five wickets in a pivotal bowling spell. “It was a game-changing moment for me,” he said, highlighting the impact of Dhoni’s support.

Understanding the Game Situation

Mishra credited Dhoni’s clarity in decision-making to a deep understanding of the game’s dynamics. “His thinking was that if I didn’t pick wickets, we would lose,” Mishra noted. This strategic support played a crucial role in Mishra’s success.

Career Highlights

Over his career, Mishra showcased his skills with impressive statistics: 76 wickets in 22 Tests, 64 wickets in 36 ODIs (including a six-wicket haul), and 16 wickets in 10 T20Is. His ability to shine, even amid irregular selections, speaks volumes about his talent.

A Positive Reflection

Looking back, Mishra maintains a positive outlook on his career. “If Dhoni was not there, maybe I wouldn’t have even made it to the team,” he reflected. His story emphasizes the importance of support and mentorship in achieving success.