Mumbai: Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan comparing Dhoni’s attitude as a captain in 2007 and 2013 says he was much more calmer in 2013 as he was letting the bowler control themself rather he controlling them.
Speaking on Star Sports show Cricket Connected, Pathan said, “He was much more calmer in 2013. Look in 2007 it was the first time and you understand that when you’re given a big responsibility of leading the country you always get excited about certain things.”
“Obviously, the meeting were always smaller even in 2007 and in 2013 Champions trophy as well, there were no differences in term of 5 minute meetings.”
“But one thing that has really changed and that happens with experiences, when young Mahendra Singh Dhoni became a captain in 2007 he used to run from the wicket-keeping end to the bowler in excitement and try to control the bowler as well.
“By 2013 came he was letting the bowler control themself rather he controlling them so he understood that and he was very calm and in control in 2013 Champions Trophy,” Pathan said.
“When Dhoni became the captain for the first time and then obviously talking about 2013 Champions Trophy he gave the experiences in between of trusting his slow bowlers, he used to always trust his slow bowlers he used to always trust his spinners and I think by the time Champions Trophy came he was very clear that in a crucial moment of the time he needs to get his spinner into play to win the games.” (UNI)