MS Dhoni to participate in SA20 after IPL retirement? Graeme Smith makes colossal statement

Former South African captain Graeme Smith has yet again expressed his admiration for MS Dhoni, saying he would love to see all Indian superstars in their domestic franchise league, SA20, but it is the legendary wicketkeeper who he wants to see in action in the rainbow nation.

Earlier this year, Smith, the League Commissioner of SA20, said that he wanted to see MS Dhoni participate in the SA20 league after his retirement, and now on the occasion of the inaugural ‘SA20 India Day’ in Mumbai, he has reiterated his emotions.

MS Dhoni on Graeme Smith’s SA20 wishlist

The former Indian captain’s fan following is just legendary, transcending borders and languages. Known for his calm demeanor, charismatic leadership, and exceptional batting, Dhoni revolutionized Indian cricket, leading the team to victories in major tournaments like the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup, 2011 ICC World Cup, and 2013 ICC Champions Trophy.

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Apart from his leadership, Dhoni’s impact on the game is immense, shaping the future of Indian cricket and inspiring millions to follow the sport with passion and dedication. MS Dhoni is also known for his explosive finishing, cool-headed approach, innovative shot-making, and unflappable composure under pressure, making him one of cricket's greatest finishers.

Meanwhile, speaking at the inaugural ‘SA20 India Day’ in Mumbai, Graeme Smith sparked excitement by hinting at the possibility of MS Dhoni playing in the SA20. Smith cheekily suggested that the legendary Indian wicketkeeper-batter should come out of retirement for a one-year stint in the South African T20 league after retiring from the IPL.

We need to get him out to South Africa soon: Graeme Smith on MS Dhoni

The League Commissioner of SA20 also said that there are a lot of icons in India who they want to play in their tournament, but it is their ultimate desire to watch the legendary Indian cricketer MS Dhoni grace the South African league.

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Graeme Smith said, “Ah, look, I mean, I always tease MS that, you know, he needs to retire so we can squeeze him in for one year in South Africa. But yeah, listen, I mean, so many that I played against, I think, you know, if I was playing, I'd like to keep Zaheer Khan away. But, you know, otherwise, yeah, just superstars all over the place. But, you know, I always tease MS; I played a lot against him. So, you know, we need to get him out to South Africa soon.”

Q: Which Indian cricketer would you like to see in SA20?

Graeme Smith: MS Dhoni 😎💛

He knows who can pull audience and brands to their league. pic.twitter.com/tukuvVkbvY

— ` (@WorshipDhoni) December 4, 2024

Smith wants BCCI to allow Indian players to participate in SA20

Meanwhile, Graeme Smith also expressed optimism about Indian players participating in the SA20 league in the future. Highlighting the admiration Indian cricketers enjoy in South Africa, he said, “The talent in India is so loved in South Africa as well. We can't wait to see Indian players in South African conditions and the competitive nature that it brings.”

Smith signed off by saying, “I think since South Africa came back into sports, India has been a great friend to South Africa. The fans in India have certainly built a strong relationship with South African cricket. So, from the SA20 perspective, India is a very important market for us. The fan base here is cricket-loving, and we want to grow and make sure that as many people tune in and love the game.”