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"Phone Uthaya?": Manoj Tiwary's Sharp Dig On MS Dhoni Being Offered Mentor Role By BCCI

Akshita Patel

Manoj Tiwary takes subtle dig at MS Dhoni [Source: @ANI, @SelflessCricket/X.com]Manoj Tiwary takes subtle dig at MS Dhoni [Source: @ANI, @SelflessCricket/X.com]

The BCCI has reportedly reached out to former India captain MS Dhoni with an offer to join the national team as a mentor ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026. However, former cricketer and MLA Manoj Tiwary passed a cheeky remark, asking whether Dhoni even “picked up the phone.”

Dhoni, who famously led India to three major ICC titles, the 2007 T20 World Cup, the 2011 ODI World Cup, and the 2013 Champions Trophy, retired from international cricket in 2020. 

However, he continues to play in the IPL for Chennai Super Kings, where he remains an influential figure.

Manoj Tiwary Questions MS Dhoni’s Intent To Serve As Mentor

Known for being a very private person, MS Dhoni is often described as difficult to reach outside the cricket field. Taking a dig at his habit, former cricketer Manoj Tiwary told ANI that it's tough to reach Dhoni over calls or texts.

“Woh phone uthaye hain na? Jahaan tak mujhe pataa hain phone pe milna bohot mushkil hai woh! Message ka reply bhi milta bohot kam hai. Bohot players apne samay main kahaa bhi hai. Pataa nahi woh reply kya karenge… woh message padhenge ki nahi padhenge," Tiwary said.

That being said, Dhoni’s alleged path to becoming the Indian team’s mentor is not as straightforward as it seems. Gautam Gambhir is still India’s 3-format head coach, and given their past history, it remains to be seen if the duo can work together for the 2026 T20 World Cup.

For now, BCCI has not officially confirmed the development, but the thought of “Captain Cool” mentoring India ahead of another World Cup has already ignited a buzz. 

Gambhir To Hinder Dhoni’s Onboarding?

The BCCI has reportedly offered MS Dhoni a huge all-format mentorship role covering men’s, women’s, and junior teams. The board feels Dhoni’s leadership skills could help shape future stars. 

However, reports claim Dhoni may not accept while Gautam Gambhir is India’s head coach, as the two have a history of differences. Dhoni, 44, remains focused on preparing for another season with Chennai Super Kings, possibly his last. While Gambhir has already guided India to a Champions Trophy win, questions remain over how the two legends could work together if Dhoni decides to join.