Veteran Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja recently opened up about his first meeting with former captain MS Dhoni back in 2005, revealing how nervous he felt even seeing the cricket legend from a distance. Despite their now well-known friendship and years of partnership with Chennai Super Kings, Ravindra Jadeja admitted that even today he hesitates to approach MS Dhoni when the latter is not in the mood. The story sheds light on Ravindra Jadeja’s humble beginnings and the quiet but powerful presence MS Dhoni holds, both on and off the field.
Nervous Beginnings on a Flight in 2005
Ravindra Jadeja recounted how their first encounter happened during the Challengers Trophy in Chennai in 2005. Both were on the same flight from Mumbai, but Ravindra Jadeja sat in economy class while MS Dhoni was in business class. Though everyone around him pointed out MS Dhoni’s presence, Ravindra Jadeja felt hesitant to meet the star. “I was a kid and saw MS Dhoni with long hair. Our manager told us we had to go with him from the airport to the team hotel. I was so nervous and thought, how can I go with him?” Ravindra Jadeja revealed. A moment of relief came when Dhoni’s phone accidentally dropped on the plane floor, delaying him just enough for Ravindra Jadeja to contemplate escaping the situation. This nervousness stemmed from the fact that MS Dhoni was already a big name, and Ravindra Jadeja was unsure of how to start a conversation with such a legendary figure.
Understanding MS Dhoni’s Moods and Their Friendship
In a conversation with CSK teammate Ravichandran Ashwin on the YouTube channel Kutti Stories with Ash, Ravindra Jadeja also shared insights about MS Dhoni’s personality. While MS Dhoni is famously calm and composed, Ravindra Jadeja confirmed that the former captain does get annoyed at times, though he never vocalizes it. “It’s clearly visible on his face when he is not in the mood,” Ravindra Jadeja explained, highlighting MS Dhoni’s silent but expressive demeanor. Over the years, the two have built a strong bond on and off the field, visible in moments like MS Dhoni lifting Ravindra Jadeja after the latter’s winning shot in the IPL 2023 final.
Ravindra Jadeja’s reflections offer a glimpse into the humility and respect that even top players hold for legends like MS Dhoni, and how those initial nervous moments evolved into a lasting friendship that continues to inspire cricket fans.
