Ex-RCB CEO Reveals Why Franchise Did Not Go For MS Dhoni In 2008 IPL Auction

MS Dhoni was undoubtedly the biggest attraction of the inaugural auction of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008. Having already established himself as one of the most destructive batsmen in the world, the former India skipper had also proven himself as captain by leading India to the historic triumph in the 2007 T20 World Cup.

As per report, almost all the teams had bid for MS Dhoni whose base price was US$400,000. In the end, the race was between Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians before the former won the race after bidding a staggering amount of US$1.5 million.

The decision paid off with MS Dhoni totally justifying his huge price tag. He is still the captain of the Super Kings and has led them to IPL title thrice. And more than a decade after missing out on the chance to sign the legendary skipper, former chief executive of Royal Challengers Bangalore has revealed the reason behind giving up on MS Dhoni.

“Imagine the backlash in Chennai (CSK picked MSD for $1.5 million) if MS Dhoni fails. We knew early, the way the bid was going that it was not on for us. This is not a one-man show, it’s a team game. Suppose he gets out for a duck in a couple of matches, suppose he fails. Fans in Chennai are going to turn around as ask ‘Was he really worth so much’?,” Charu Sharma was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo.

Well, it is safe to say that both Charu Sharma as well as Royal Challengers must have been regretting their decision. While the Super Kings are one of the most decorated teams in the history of the IPL, Royal Challengers are yet to win the IPL title.

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