MS Dhoni ignores Virat Kohli while naming his dream line-up, picks Sourav Ganguly

Legendary wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni has been ruling the headlines for his dismal performances for the Chennai Super Kings in the ongoing IPL 2025. Amid the heavy criticism, MS Dhoni turned heads by snubbing Virat Kohli from his dream line-up.

When asked to name players from any era or country he'd love to see play together, the former Indian captain stunned fans by completely leaving out modern-era legend Virat Kohli. Dhoni picked Indian legends from the early 2000s while speaking on Raj Shamani's podcast.

MS Dhoni shocks fans by snubbing Virat Kohli among his favorites

The legendary cricketer has picked his former teammates Virender Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar, and Sourav Ganguly. Dhoni also gave a special mention to Yuvraj Singh, recalling the legendary all-rounder for his unforgettable six sixes against England.

Read Also: Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma sidelined from SunRisers Hyderabad, Nitish Kumar Reddy taken to task

However, the CSK wicketkeeper didn’t mention anything about Kohli, who has been India's run machine across the formats, leaving fans surprised. Many have been wondering why Dhoni would sideline a player he once handed the captaincy baton to.

However, Dhoni mentioned that these were the players he grew up watching and admiring, but still the absence of Kohli, who has been India's backbone for more than a decade, and even he played under him, was just beyond one’s understanding, given the friendship and relationship they share.

Question: Players you would like to see them play together - pick any from any generation, any Era, any Country?

MS Dhoni said "I would stick to my Indian players - Viru pa opening, Sachin, Dada - growing up, we have all seen these players perform - Yuvi hitting the six sixes". pic.twitter.com/gGNKxu6FUa

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) April 6, 2025

MS Dhoni reveals why he never selects his dream XI

Meanwhile, MS Dhoni has played alongside some of the biggest names in the game. But when it comes to picking an all-time playing XI, the legendary cricketer has always stayed away from it. Recently, the 43-year-old was asked why he never selects his dream XI.

In his classic style, Dhoni gave a smart and simple reply. He shared an example from one of his past press conferences to explain why he avoids naming a dream XI. Dhoni made it clear that he doesn't believe in comparing legends or leaving anyone out, so he doesn’t make a dream XI.

Read Also: KL Rahul exposes Harry Brook’s role in ruining his 'opening' ambitions for Delhi Capitals

MS Dhoni's diplomatic answer leaves everyone in split

Dhoni said on the podcast, “I have never picked one. The reason is simple. The thing that cannot be, I once said in a press conference, he asked me about one individual who was injured, who wasn't available. So, I asked him about it, and he said, 'Brother, tell me one thing: what can a team member do for me? Or what can he do for the team? Why are you talking about the one who is not there'?”

The former Indian skipper added, “There is something like that in India; the one who is not in the team is the better player. Somehow, whether he is injured or not. But the fact is he is not available for selection. The amount of impact he can have on the game is zero. I will worry about the people who can actually have an impact on the game.”

Notably, Dhoni faced a lot of criticism after Chennai Super Kings lost their third match in a row in the ongoing IPL 2025. Delhi Capitals defeated CSK by 25 runs at Chepauk. Dhoni remained unbeaten with 30 runs from 26 balls against the DC.