Harbhajan Singh highlighted the contrasting leadership styles of MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma, noting that while Dhoni allows players to learn from their mistakes, Rohit provides individual support.
Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni are two of the most successful captains in Indian cricket, both having led India to T20 World Cup titles. Rohit joined Dhoni this year in achieving this feat, and both have also led their respective teams to multiple Indian Premier League (IPL) titles.
While speaking on the podcast “Find a Way with Taruwar Kohli”, Harbhajan Singh, who played under both captains during his career, highlighted the differences in their leadership styles. While Dhoni is known for allowing players to learn from their mistakes without much intervention, Rohit takes a more hands-on approach, guiding players individually and giving them confidence. Harbhajan then shared an instance where Dhoni’s philosophy of letting players figure things out on their own was evident.
“MS Dhoni will never go to a player and will ask him what field you want. He will let you learn from your mistakes,” he said.
“I remember a game where I was fielding at the short fine leg and MS Dhoni was keeping. Shardul Thakur was bowling and the first ball Kane Williamson hit him down the ground for a boundary. Next ball, same length and Williamson played the same shot. I went to MS and asked him to tell Shardul try and bowl different length. MS said to me ‘Paji If I will tell him now, then he will never learn. Let him learn by himself.’ His thought process was that when Shardul will get hit for boundaries, he will learn it quickly. That was MS Dhoni’s way,” Harbhajan continued.
READ ALSO | LSG Coach Jonty Rhodes Speaks on Rohit Sharma’s Potential Move Ahead of IPL 2025
According to the former bowler, Rohit Sharma’s leadership style is different as he takes an active approach. He personally communicates with each bowler, clearly explaining what he expects from them and providing the confidence they need to execute their tasks effectively.
“Rohit is very different. He will go and talk to each player. He is someone who will put his arm around your shoulder and tell you what he wants from you. He will give you that confidence that yes you can do it,” added Harbhajan.
Last Updated on September 2, 2024
Senior Sports Copywriter
