Sai Kishore and MS Dhoni [Source: @tala_siddiqui/X.com]
After Manoj Tiwary's 'no pickup' allegations against India legend MS Dhoni, another GT star exposed CSK's former leader's infamous habit. GT's star spinner Sai Kishore revealed how MS Dhoni works and how his methods help a better connection with the in-game mindset.
Moreover, the Dhoni method manifests clearly in careers revitalised under his guidance, with Sai Kishore serving as a prime example. Though he never played a match during his two seasons with CSK, the foundations laid during his time with the franchise have propelled his successful transition to Gujarat Titans, where he has emerged as one of India's most reliable T20 spinners.
Kishore reveals Dhoni's 'detachment' philosophy
The Gujarat Titans spinner recently shared insightful details about the valuable lessons learnt from MS Dhoni during his CSK apprenticeship, particularly highlighting the former captain's conscious disconnection from external noise.
“I have learnt a lot about this from MS Dhoni. He would never pick up his phone. He used to leave his phone in his hotel room and come for the games. That’s how detached he would be. This inspired me because I used to ask myself if being involved in social media is needed. So looking at him inspired me,” Kishore revealed in an interview on Provoke TV.
CSK apprentice transforms into Titans mainstay
Kishore's career trajectory exemplifies the Dhoni effect. Purchased by CSK for his base price of ₹20 lakh in 2020, he spent two seasons absorbing the team's culture without making a single appearance. His move to the Gujarat Titans in 2022 for ₹3 crore marked the beginning of his emergence as a frontline bowler.
Since joining GT, Sai Kishore has taken 32 wickets in 25 matches, establishing himself as a versatile spinner capable of bowling effectively in both powerplay and middle overs. Despite operating in the Impact Player era that favours batters, he has maintained a respectable economy rate of around 8.85 while remaining a consistent wicket-taking threat.