How MS Dhoni became captain of Indian cricket team
What's the story
Rajiv Shukla, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) vice-president, has revealed the behind-the-scenes story of MS Dhoni's appointment as India's captain in 2007.
The surprise decision came just months after India's early exit from the ICC ODI World Cup in West Indies.
The legendary wicketkeeper-batter was picked over several established stars, marking the beginning of his illustrious leadership journey in international cricket.
Leadership transition
Tendulkar's refusal paved way for captain Dhoni
Shukla revealed that former BCCI president Sharad Pawar had first approached Sachin Tendulkar for the captaincy role.
However, Tendulkar refused the offer after discussing it with his family and said he would play under even the 'junior most player.'
"Tendulkar thought about it and after having discussions with his family declined. Pawar insisted on Tendulkar becoming the captain," Shukla said on The Ranveer Show.
Leadership traits
Dhoni's captaincy qualities and his remarkable journey
Shukla further explained selectors look for several qualities in a player before making them captain. These include temperament and interaction with teammates among others.
"He (Dhoni) was a young and emerging player, and could lead. It's a challenge to make a wicketkeeper the leader but Dhoni was mature," he said.
This was the beginning of Dhoni's remarkable journey as one of cricket's most successful captains.
Legacy
One of India's greatest captains
MS Dhoni is among the veterans who revolutionized Indian cricket with his acclaimed Midas touch.
The 43-year-old is the only captain to win each of the three limited-overs ICC trophies.
In his maiden tournament as captain, Dhoni led India to the inaugural T20 World Cup title (2007).
In 2011, India won their second ODI World Cup title, under Dhoni. Two years later, Dhoni captained a rather young Team India to the Champions Trophy (2013) title.