NewKerala.com

Jatin Paranjpe Reveals Tense Talk That Ended Dhoni's Captaincy Era

Former national selector Jatin Paranjpe has revealed the high-stakes conversation where the selection committee asked MS Dhoni to step down as India's white-ball captain. Paranjpe described the nervous approach to Dhoni during a net session and the prepared, respectful dialogue. Dhoni's immediate and selfless acceptance, including a promise to work fully with successor Virat Kohli, exemplified his leadership. The selectors faced significant public backlash for the tough but necessary decision made in early 2017.

Key Points: Dhoni's Captaincy End: Paranjpe Reveals High-Stakes Talk

  • Reveals tense selector meeting with Dhoni
  • Dhoni accepted decision selflessly
  • Promised full support to successor Kohli
  • Selectors faced public criticism
2 min read

"Mahi, we think it's the right time to move on": Jatin Paranjpe reveals high-stakes conversation that ended an era

Former selector Jatin Paranjpe details the respectful conversation asking MS Dhoni to step down as India's white-ball captain in 2017.

"Mahi, we think it's the right time to move on. - Jatin Paranjpe"

New Delhi, February 16

Former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni is gearing up to play for Chennai Super Kings for one more time in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League, and former India selector Jatin Paranjpe shared an anecdote about Dhoni leaving the Indian team's white-ball captaincy.

As the IPL 2026 season approaches, the bombshell story from the selection room has finally come to light. Speaking on The Great Indian Cricket Show on Doordarshan, former national selector Paranjpe detailed the nerve-wracking moment the committee had to tell MS Dhoni that his time as captain had come to an end.

The 53-year-old former Indian cricketer, who has played four international matches for India, recalled the tension of approaching a legend, "Mahi was batting, it had been an hour, and MSK [Prasad] and I were just looking at each other. We had prepared how to talk most respectfully. We went to him and said, 'Mahi, we think it's the right time to move on.'"

Instead of resistance, Dhoni's response was a masterclass in selfless leadership.

Paranjpe said, "Dhoni told MSK, 'Anna, this is a perfect decision. What do you want from me?' MSK told him he would need to put it in writing. That night, I got the email. He also said, 'Don't worry, I will work with Chiku [Virat Kohli] completely. He's like a brother to me.'

The fallout was immediate and intense. "We were criticised a lot," Paranjpe admitted, reflecting on the public backlash. "But I thought, these are the tough decisions which you have to take."

Dhoni stepped down from ODI and T20I captaincy in early 2017, and Virat Kohli took over as India's captain in all formats. At that time, the 35-year-old Dhoni had helped India win the ICC T20 World Cup 2007, the ICC Men's World Cup 2011, and the ICC Champions Trophy 2013. Kohli led India in the 2019 ODI World Cup in England.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
It's fascinating to finally hear the behind-the-scenes story. The respect in that room must have been palpable. It shows how professional sports transitions should be handled, with grace on all sides.
V
Vikram M
With due respect to the selectors, I still feel they pushed him out a bit early. He had the 2019 World Cup in him. Look at how he's playing in the IPL even now! The man is timeless. But yes, his response was pure Dhoni - calm and team-first.
P
Priya S
"Anna, this is a perfect decision." That line gives me goosebumps! The humility. We were so lucky to have him as our captain. CSK is lucky to have him for one more season. Whistle Podu! 💛
R
Rohit P
Tough job for Paranjpe and MSK Prasad. Can't imagine telling a legend like Dhoni it's time to go. They faced backlash, but history has proven them right. It allowed Virat to build his own team. The process was respectful, which is the most important thing.
N
Nisha Z
This is why he's "Captain Cool." No drama, just understanding and immediate action. Getting the email the same night! His legacy is not just trophies, but his attitude. Can't wait to see him in yellow one last time. 🏏

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50