S. Badrinath recently shared a lighthearted story from his playing days involving MS Dhoni and Anil Kumble. He recounted a match where he was dismissed LBW off Kumble after attempting a lap shot. Frustrated and standing in the dressing room, Badrinath noticed Dhoni, who, in a casual yet humorous manner, kicked a small water bottle out of the park.
This light moment encapsulated Dhoni’s carefree and spontaneous approach, even when situations were tense. It was a reflection of the calm and playful personality that made Dhoni a beloved figure among teammates and fans alike.
Badrinath’s LBW Dismissal
The story began when Badrinath was dismissed playing a risky lap shot against leg-spin legend Anil Kumble. The ball trapped him LBW, sending him back to the dressing room in disappointment. Reflecting on his dismissal, Badrinath explained how frustrating it was, especially against a bowler as crafty as Kumble. The moment underscored the fine line between success and failure in cricket, where one wrong shot selection could lead to dismissal.
However, what followed was a moment that lightened the atmosphere.
MS Dhoni’s Reaction
As Badrinath was coming into the dressing room, he observed MS Dhoni walking inside. In Dhoni’s typical nonchalant style, he kicked a small water bottle in frustration or humor, sending it flying out of the dressing room. The scene caught Badrinath off guard, as Dhoni had a knack for downplaying serious moments with his carefree actions.
This gesture was symbolic of Dhoni’s attitude on and off the field. Known for his cool demeanor and ability to handle pressure with ease, Dhoni rarely allowed tense situations to get the better of him. His playful response to what could have been a frustrating situation revealed his ability to take things lightly and move on quickly.
MS Dhoni: A Cool, Composed Leader
The incident with the water bottle is just one of many examples of Dhoni’s relaxed approach to life and cricket. Throughout his career, Dhoni earned the reputation of being “Captain Cool,” known for his ice-cold decision-making under pressure. Whether it was a World Cup final or a crucial match, Dhoni always appeared unperturbed, making bold decisions that often paid off.
Even off the field, Dhoni maintained a calm and approachable persona. Stories from his teammates often depict him as someone who knew how to keep the atmosphere light, even in high-stress situations. Badrinath’s recollection reinforces the idea that Dhoni’s leadership extended beyond his strategic brilliance—it was also rooted in his ability to keep morale high and foster camaraderie.
The Legacy of Dhoni’s Leadership
The water bottle episode speaks volumes about the kind of leader Dhoni was. He had an uncanny ability to break the tension in the dressing room with his humor and laid-back attitude. For young players like Badrinath, these moments were invaluable, teaching them how to manage the highs and lows of international cricket.
Dhoni’s leadership style was never about high-intensity reactions or emotional outbursts. Instead, he led by example, showing his teammates how to stay grounded, regardless of the situation. This, in turn, helped India achieve some of its greatest cricketing moments under his captaincy, including the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup.
Conclusion
S. Badrinath’s anecdote about MS Dhoni kicking a water bottle out of the park serves as a charming reminder of Dhoni’s unique character. His ability to stay calm and composed, even during tough times, made him a one-of-a-kind leader in Indian cricket. For Badrinath and others who played under him, Dhoni’s actions—whether on the field or in the dressing room—left a lasting impact. Moments like these showcase why MS Dhoni remains an iconic figure in the world of cricket, both for his skills and his unforgettable personality.