MS Dhoni’s first press conference after stepping down from captaincy was a very interesting one. Dhoni, as always, spoke candidly on many issues and took direct questions from journalists sitting.
Expectedly, he was asked many questions about his decision and how much a difference will it make on him as a player. He was also asked many questions about Virat Kohli and Dhoni answered all of them with a lot of grace.
Dhoni defended his decision of stepping down by saying it is the right time for him to pass the captaincy to Virat Kohli, who is a very able leader. Dhoni also said that he really enjoyed the journey as India’s captain. When asked about his batting position, Dhoni, in his trademark style, said, it will all depend on the situation.
Here are some of the highlights of what MS Dhoni said:
- Virat Kohli and this team will win more games than me.
- I feel it will be the most successful team ever.
- Overall, it’s been a journey for me, the ups and downs.
- When I started, there were a lot of senior players and we had to make sure that the transition was smooth.
- It’s been a journey I have really enjoyed.
- Virat Kohli and I have always been very close.
- The more I can serve Virat Kohli, the better it will be for Indian cricket.
- I will do all I can to help him (Kohli)… and keep a close eye on the field positioning.
- I was willing to bat lower down the order because, I though I could do it.
- I am ready to bat wherever the team wants me to bat.
- Sometimes you have to give false confidence to a player.
- Press conferences were a waste of time.
- Split captaincy does not work in the Indian set-up.
- It’s the right time to step down.
- Hope there will be no serious injuries to any player of the team.
