Jharkhand State Cricket Association joint secretary Shahbaz Nadeem has revealed the MS Dhoni factor behind the state clinching their first-ever Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Ishan Kishan and co. created history by beating Haryana last week to lay their hands on the silverware for the first time in the history of the tournament. Following Jharkhand’s win. Nadeem opened up on how MSD was at the forefront of helping the team to not just prepare for the tourney but also in lifting in the cup.
The Dhoni factor behind Jharkhand’s SMAT win
As per ESPNCricinfo, Nadeem stated that Dhoni had followed each and every Jharkhand player keenly throughout their tournament and knew their numbers and stats. He said that the former Indian captain had even noted down the weaknesses of the players and had discussed it with the state association. The former Indian cricketer further revealed that the association had sought Dhoni’s advice on various matters including the appointment of the coaching staff.
“When we started the season, right from the appointment of the coaching staff, we have always taken his [Dhoni’s] advice and suggestions. And I’ll tell you something, he follows every game very closely. He followed the entire [SMAT] tournament, noted all the strengths and weaknesses of the players and discussed with us. He knows the stats and numbers of each domestic player from Jharkhand. He is very interested in helping Jharkhand cricket grow,” Nadeem said.
In a final where both Jharkhand and Haryana were chasing their first T20 crown, the contest was decided long before the second innings could settle. Jharkhand piled on a staggering 262 for 3 at the MCA Stadium in Pune, and Haryana never truly recovered, eventually being bowled out for 193 to lose by 69 runs. Jharkhand’s 262 is the highest a team has scored in any T20 tournament final. Jharkhand finished the tournament unbeaten, having won 11 out of 11 matches.
Editor's Pick
Cricket
Alternate Team India squad picked for T20 World Cup 2026, Shubman Gill snubbed again
Top Stories
