Dhoni had unique ability to inspire, says former Goa allrounder Jakati

Panaji: Shadab Jakati is fortunate enough to have been captained by MS Dhoni for six years during his time with Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

The allrounder is the only one from Goa to have known Dhoni from close quarters. India’s most famous wicketkeeper is the only captain to win all ICC trophies, so when the former India captain announced his retirement, it took everyone by surprise.

Most knew it was time for Dhoni to call it a day, but the timing was unexpected.

"I guess he took the retirement decision partly due to the T20 World Cup being postponed following the Covid-19 pandemic. I think he realised it is time," Jakati said.

The 39-year-old Vasco resident believes he was fortunate to be on the field with Dhoni.

“I feel proud when I think I was part of one of the most successful teams in IPL. It was a dream come true for me when CSK signed me as I have been following Dhoni since he lifted the World T20 trophy in South Africa,” said Jakati.

Jakati’s first memory of Dhoni was when he met him during the jersey launch of IPL in the inaugural edition.

"Dhoni is a captain who made bowlers comfortable. He was very flexible with the field placement. With him retired, I believe bowlers will not get those important tips. They will miss him behind the stumps," said Shadab.

The former Goa allrounder feels Dhoni was unique as a captain, player and person.

“Everyone knows that Dhoni is a man of few words. He rarely says anything, but when he does, he has important things to say. He gave me freedom to execute my plans. If things didn’t work out, he used to come up with his. When you see him, you get motivated. Such is his personality,” said Jakati.

Even foreign players, Jakati said, were in awe of the former India captain.

“Each year, he was a more mature person with in-depth knowledge of the game. He also had a humorous side. He was a team man, always available to his teammates for any advice,” said Jakati.

Jakati played for CSK from 2008 to 2013. Although, he played for RCB and Gujarat Lions too, he feels the impact that Dhoni created in the squad will be hard to replace.

“Everyone in the squad benefitted from his presence, from youngsters to seniors. That is something that players won’t get with Dhoni retiring,” said Jakati.
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