IPL 2020: Ashish Nehra Opens Up About His Special Bond With MS Dhoni

Ashish Nehra, former India, and Chennai Super Kings pace bowler — has recently opened up about his relationship and the special bond he shares with CSK skipper MS Dhoni in the light of Dhoni’s 200th IPL match.

MS Dhoni on Monday (October 19) created history as the Chennai captain became the first player to be part of 200 matches in the IPL. Dhoni is playing his 11th season for the yellow army, leading them three times to title victories. He also played for now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant for a couple of seasons when CSK was banned for the 2016 and 2017 seasons.

Besides, Ashish Nehra has lavished praise for the former India skipper and has talked about his tranquil mindset in wins and losses. Ashish Nehra says solidity and consistency have been characteristics of MS Dhoni whether he led India or CSK. The left-arm seamer talks about what youngsters and even senior cricketers can learn from Dhoni and his positive outlook on things.

Talking to Star Sports Nehra said, “See, whenever you discuss his name, what comes to your mind? Solidity and consistency. He gives so many reasons for fans to smile, whether you talk about India colours, whether you talk about CSK colours.”

“There is so much to learn from him. For me, MS Dhoni is someone, as a youngster or as a senior pro, he is always with you, hands-on. He always looks at the positive side of everything”, Nehra added.

MS Dhoni is really special: Ashish Nehra:

Nehra, who was part of the 2011 World Cup-winning team — and played a couple of seasons under MS Dhoni for CSK, says he has a special bond with the former skipper. He says Dhoni doesn’t carry his phone with him all the time and talks about how close their relationship is. He also fixates on the importance of process, same as Dhoni does, and not think too much about the results.

“He always says, you either win or you learn, you never lose: I have played with him, I am not going by results like winning a World Cup or a Champions Trophy, all that is by-product. He is somebody who is really special.

“I have a different bond with him. He is not someone who carries his phone all the time but whenever we meet, even if I meet him after a year or two, we feel like we are meeting every day. Long story cut short, he is a positive energy for everyone,” Nehra said.

Meanwhile, Dhoni’s 200th IPL match celebration was cut short by Jos Buttler, as the right-hander took Rajasthan Royals to a seven-wicket victory over the Super Kings. This leaves Chennai at the bottom of the table with six points and four games in hand. Chennai will be facing the defending champions Mumbai Indians on Friday in Sharjah.

Also Read: “He Used To Write On Thigh Pad”: Sanjay Bangar Explains How MS Dhoni Became ‘Great Finisher’