MS Dhoni's role in Jharkhand's historic Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy triumph revealed

Jharkhand's maiden Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title may have been clinched on the field, but its foundations were laid quietly months earlier, shaped by the influence of a figure who no longer wears India colours yet remains deeply embedded in the state's cricketing soul: MS Dhoni.

JSCA joint secretary Shahbaz Nadeem has revealed that Dhoni's advice was sought at every significant step during a sweeping restructuring of Jharkhand cricket ahead of the 2024-25 season, a process that ultimately culminated in the state's first-ever Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy triumph.

Jharkhand has long punched above its weight in producing elite cricketers, and that tradition continues through Ishan Kishan, whose blistering performances powered the title run. Recently recalled to India's T20 setup for next year's World Cup, Kishan now walks a path once carved out by Dhoni himself, the state's greatest cricketing export.

Though Dhoni stepped away from international cricket in 2020, his connection with the game, particularly Jharkhand cricket, has remained intact. When administrative changes took shape within the Jharkhand State Cricket Association in 2024, Dhoni became a key sounding board as officials mapped out a long-term vision for the state.

Nadeem, now an administrator after a long playing career, confirmed that Dhoni's involvement went far beyond symbolic guidance. Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, he revealed that Dhoni was consulted on coaching appointments and overall



planning, including the selection of men's coach Ratan Kumar.

"When we started the season, right from the appointment of the coaching staff, we have always taken his advice and suggestions," Nadeem said. "He followed the entire [SMAT] tournament, noted all the strengths and weaknesses of the players and discussed with us."

That meticulous oversight translated into a campaign of rare dominance. Jharkhand won 10 of their 11 matches en route to the title, playing a brand of fearless, modern T20 cricket. Kishan led from the front as captain, smashing 517 runs in 10 innings at a staggering strike rate of 197, setting the tempo for the side throughout the competition.

Support came from several quarters. Young batter Kumar Kushagra emerged as a reliable finisher, while Anukul Roy produced a tournament to remember, scoring 303 runs and claiming 19 wickets to earn the Player of the Tournament award.

The final against Haryana was the clearest reflection of Jharkhand's confidence and preparation. Posting a commanding 262, they cruised to victory with ease, sparking celebrations across the state and underlining just how complete their campaign had been.

Behind that success, Nadeem insists, lay Dhoni's quiet but constant presence. "He knows the stats and numbers of each domestic player from Jharkhand. He is very interested in helping Jharkhand cricket grow," Nadeem said, a remark that captures Dhoni's enduring relationship with the region.