Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fast bowler Sudeep Tyagi recently shared his experience playing under MS Dhoni in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and what made Dhoni a great captain.
Tyagi was a part of the CSK squad in 2009 and 2010. He played 14 matches for the team and was also part of the squad that won the IPL 2010 title under Dhoni’s leadership.
Reflecting on his time with CSK, Tyagi said he felt comfortable initially.
“I felt really happy when I joined CSK and met MS Dhoni. He did not act like a superstar. He treated everyone the same, whether senior or junior,” Tyagi said.
Dhoni’s Mantra for Success
According to Tyagi, Dhoni always had one simple rule for his players, give 100% on the field. “MS Dhoni always told us to give our best whenever we stepped on the ground. He supported me a lot. He also supported the entire CSK team. That is why CSK are the best franchise,” he added.
Tyagi has picked six wickets in 14 IPL matches for CSK. His best performance was 2/18 against Delhi Capitals at The Wanderers Stadium in 2009.
Dhoni’s Leadership Style
Regarding MS Dhoni as a captain, Sudeep Tyagi shared that the great wicketkeeper batter was always open to his teammates’ ideas. At the same time, his teammates used to respect his decisions.
“Whatever he told us to do, we followed. Even when we gave him suggestions, he listened. That is why he is such a successful captain,” Tyagi explained.
Tyagi dismissed the idea when asked if Dhoni had any ‘favorite’ players in the squad. He insisted that Dhoni treated everyone equally.
Tyagi’s Current Career
Sudeep Tyagi is playing for Indian Royals in the Asian Legends League 2025. In a recent match against Asian Stars on March 14, he bowled a good spell, taking 1/28.
