Debasis Sen
Former World Cup–winning captain MS Dhoni is unlikely to be at the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) Stadium to watch the first ODI between India and South Africa on Sunday. The legendary cricketer, who is settled in the city, will be out of town due to a personal commitment.
“What I know is that Dhoni will not be in town tomorrow,” said Shahbaz Nadeem, the joint secretary of the Jharkhand State Cricket Association, in an exclusive chat with Revsportz on the eve of the ODI series opener. “He will be leaving tonight for some personal commitment. But if he is in town, he will surely turn up to watch the match, and we have already extended our invitation.”
Both Shahbaz and Saurabh Tiwary (now the secretary of JSCA) have held multiple discussions with Dhoni on how to help develop cricket in the state.
According to Nadeem, “We had a discussion with Dhoni after coming into administration regarding how we can develop junior cricket in the state and improve the level of district cricket. Whatever his ideas are, we have taken note of them.”
He added, “Whenever Dhoni is around, he always spends time with the junior cricketers of the state. He keeps sharing advice with the youngsters. He is always willing to help budding cricketers. Dhoni bhai is always a phone call away for any advice.”
When asked about his new role as an administrator, Nadeem said, “I am enjoying my role as an administrator, and I would say it is not at all challenging. Yes, it takes a little time to understand how the system works. Having played the game, you know what a cricketer needs, and you try to fulfil it.”
Dhoni will be seen in action for the Chennai Super Kings in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) season. The 44-year-old has already begun his fitness regime.
According to Nadeem, “Dhoni bhai is looking even fitter than last season. His dedication to the game stands out. He was never a fitness fanatic when I played with him, but once he crossed 30, he started giving more importance to his fitness. We all know he had a knee injury last season, but hopefully he will be absolutely fit ahead of the IPL season.”
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A glimpse of MS Dhoni’s Mecon Colony home and the Harmu Housing Colony residence — @CricSubhayan chats with the current owner of Dhoni’s childhood home@debasissen @Wowmomo4u #Dhoni #Ranchi @msdhoni pic.twitter.com/Q5J7qI3sPS
— RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) November 29, 2025
