Deepak Chahar credits MS Dhoni for his recall to team India

Former India skipper MS Dhoni undoubtedly remains one of the biggest names in Indian cricket, not just for his abilities on the field but also for his leadership calibre using which he has brought out the best in many upcoming cricketers. One such player is Deepak Chahar who has established himself as one of the top emerging talents. Although, he has represented India only twice so far, Deepak Chahar is all set to make his return after a long absence, and its all thanks to MSD.

Chahar and MS Dhoni use to play for the same team, first at Raising Pune Supergiants and then at Chennai Super Kings. Eventhough, Chahar’s game time was limited during his time at Raising Pune Supergiants, he emerged as one of the vital player for Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2019, finishing as the third highest wicket taker with 22 in 17 games.

“Mahi bhai [MS Dhoni] was in Pune [Rising Pune Supergiant] for two years. He had faith in me. In the first year itself, he told me I would get to play, but unfortunately I got injured in the very first practice match. So I could play only the last two-three matches,” Chahar was quoted as saying.

“Next year, [Steven] Smith was the captain, and his plans were different, so I played only two-three matches. But Mahi bhai had told me he'd take me in Chennai [Super Kings] and to prepare well. So I had the belief that I will get chances. And Mahi bhai is among those people who will back you fully. He won't change his decision after just one or two matches. I knew that I would get at least five-six matches.”

Chahar further went on to say that MS Dhoni had a strong belief in his ability, as the latter had told the team about his skills while backing him to feature in all 14 matches in the season.

"And he told me later, I think before the qualifier or the final, that in their initial planning talks he had said, 'This guy will play all 14 matches, so let's talk of the others.' He had that belief in me. And if Mahendra Singh Dhoni can believe in me so much, it gave me a reason to believe in my own abilities. That is his greatness - he gives players confidence. If someone like him says, 'This guy is good and he'll do well', the player will also feel that he belongs at that level."

Deepak Chahar is one of the players who has thrived under MS Dhoni and his focus now would be to perform well in his absence.