World Cup 2023: MS Dhoni highlights key difference between 2011 World Cup-winning team, Indian squad eyeing glory
Bengaluru, October 27: Former Indian captain MS Dhoni recently shed light on a significant factor that distinguishes the 2011 ODI World Cup-winning team from the current squad led by Rohit Sharma, which aspires to replicate that historic achievement in World Cup 2023.
India's last World Cup victory took place 12 years ago, under the captaincy of MS Dhoni, who is widely regarded as one of the most successful captains in Indian cricket history. Over a decade later, the "Men in Blue" are determined to replicate that success, remaining unbeaten in the World Cup 2023.
During an event on Thursday, MS Dhoni was asked about the differences between the two teams, and he pointed out one crucial distinction - the winning mentality centered around Sachin Tendulkar. Dhoni said, "There's a big difference between the two teams. The 2011 World Cup-winning Indian side was much more unified. They aimed to win the World Cup for Sachin Tendulkar, who commanded immense respect from everyone. I'm not certain about this team. I don't know who all want to win the World Cup for Virat Kohli, but they certainly want to win it for India. That's a significant difference."
Dhoni went on to praise the current team, acknowledging its exceptional balance and the high-quality performance of all its players. He stated, "It's a very good team. Bohot accha balance hai team ka. Harlog acha khel rahe hain (The team's balance is extremely good. All the players are playing well). So everything is looking very good. Isse zyada main kuch nahi bolunga, baaki samajhdaar ko ishara kaafi hai (I won't say anything more than this. For the wise, the signal is enough)."
Despite retiring from international cricket, Dhoni continues to lead the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, Chennai Super Kings (CSK). He recently guided CSK to their fifth IPL championship and had been expected to announce his retirement due to a knee injury.
Providing an update on his recovery, Dhoni mentioned, "My knee has survived the operation, and I am going through the rehab phase. The doctor told me I would feel much better by November, but there's no problem in my day-to-day routine."
Following the IPL, Dhoni underwent knee surgery at the beginning of June.
- ANI
