Suryakumar Yadav Reflects on Missed Opportunity to Play Under MS Dhoni
In a recent candid conversation at the JITO Connect 2025 event, Indian cricketer Suryakumar Yadav expressed his regret over never having the chance to play under the legendary captain MS Dhoni. Despite facing Dhoni numerous times in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Yadav’s aspirations to don the national jersey under Dhoni’s leadership remained unfulfilled. This revelation adds a poignant layer to Yadav’s cricketing journey, which has seen him rise through the ranks to become a key player for India.
A Journey Through Leadership
Suryakumar Yadav made his international debut in 2021 under the captaincy of Virat Kohli. Since then, he has experienced significant milestones, including leading India to victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup and most recently, the Asia Cup in 2025. His ascent in Indian cricket has been remarkable, yet the shadow of Dhoni’s legacy looms large over the sport.
Reflecting on his missed opportunity, Yadav stated, “Firstly, I always wanted to get an opportunity when he was the captain of India. But I never got it. I saw him behind the stumps whenever I played against him.” This sentiment resonates with many young cricketers who idolize Dhoni, a figure synonymous with calmness and strategic brilliance on the field.
Learning from the Best
Yadav’s experiences against Dhoni have not been in vain. He noted that one of the most valuable lessons he learned from the former captain was the importance of maintaining composure in high-pressure situations. “He has been very cool. One thing that I have learned from him when I played against him is to stay relaxed in all pressure situations,” Yadav remarked. This ability to assess the game and make informed decisions is a hallmark of Dhoni’s captaincy, which has earned him a revered place in cricket history.
Contrasting Leadership Styles: Kohli and Rohit
In his reflections, Yadav also compared the leadership styles of Kohli and Rohit Sharma, both of whom have played pivotal roles in his career. Kohli, known for his intense and energetic approach, is described by Yadav as a “very hard task master.” He emphasized that Kohli’s relentless pursuit of excellence pushed players to their limits, fostering a competitive environment that demanded the best from everyone.
On the other hand, Yadav praised Rohit Sharma for his ability to create a comfortable atmosphere for players. “He is someone who gets everyone comfortable around them, an inspiration to all youngsters,” Yadav said. Rohit’s open-door policy and approachable demeanor have made him a beloved figure in the dressing room, showcasing a different but equally effective style of leadership.
The Legacy of MS Dhoni
MS Dhoni’s impact on Indian cricket cannot be overstated. As captain, he led India to numerous victories, including the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup. His unique blend of calmness, tactical acumen, and ability to inspire teammates has set a benchmark for future leaders. For many players, including Yadav, the opportunity to play under Dhoni would have been a dream come true.
The absence of this experience has left Yadav with a sense of longing, a feeling that is not uncommon among younger players who have grown up idolizing Dhoni. The generational gap in Indian cricket is evident, as many current players have only witnessed Dhoni’s legacy from the sidelines, rather than as active participants in his era.
The Future of Indian Cricket
As Yadav continues to carve out his own legacy, the lessons learned from both Kohli and Rohit, along with the influence of Dhoni, will undoubtedly shape his approach to leadership. With the Indian cricket team undergoing a transition, the importance of nurturing young talent and fostering a supportive environment cannot be overstated.
Yadav’s recent achievements as captain highlight the potential for a new era in Indian cricket, one that blends the best practices of past legends with the fresh perspectives of emerging leaders. His reflections serve as a reminder of the rich tapestry of experiences that define a cricketer’s journey, and the importance of learning from those who have come before.
Conclusion
Suryakumar Yadav’s regret over not playing under MS Dhoni encapsulates the aspirations of many young cricketers in India. As he continues to lead the national team, the lessons learned from Dhoni, Kohli, and Rohit will guide him in navigating the complexities of leadership. The future of Indian cricket looks promising, with Yadav at the helm, embodying the spirit of resilience and adaptability that has characterized the sport’s evolution in the country.
