Indian Royals fast bowler Sudeep Tyagi recently shared his experience of playing under MS Dhoni during his time with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL. He revealed the key factor behind Dhoni’s success as a captain.
In an exclusive conversation with Sportskeeda at the Asian Legends League 2025 in Nathdwara, Tyagi reflected on his IPL journey. He played 14 matches for CSK in 2009 and 2010 and was part of the squad that won the IPL 2010 title under Dhoni’s leadership.
When asked about his stint with CSK, Tyagi said:
“I felt really nice when I came to the Chennai Super Kings team and met MS Dhoni for the first time. It did not feel like he is a such a legendary player. He treats everyone equally, be it senior or junior.”
“MS Dhoni always has one mantra for everyone. That is give your 100% on the ground whenever you go on the field. He supported me a lot. He supported Chennai Super Kings a lot as well. That’s why Chennai Super Kings is the best franchise team.”
Sudeep Tyagi picked up six wickets in 14 matches for CSK, with his best figures of 2/18 coming in a 2009 league-stage game against Delhi Capitals at The Wanderers Stadium.
“There is no room for favoritism” – Sudeep Tyagi says MS Dhoni treated everyone equally
Discussing MS Dhoni‘s leadership further, Sudeep Tyagi highlighted that the wicketkeeper-batter was always receptive to suggestions from his players. At the same time, his teammates attentively followed his guidance, fostering a positive team environment.
“Whatever he used to tell us, we would do. Even when we said something to him, he would do that. It shows why he is such a successful captain,” Tyagi said.
When questioned about whether Dhoni had any ‘favorites’ whom he favored more than other players, Tyagi promptly denied it and added:
“No, no. I played for CSK and Team India under MS Dhoni’s captaincy. There is no such thing as favoritism. He treats everyone equally. He uses the player as per the situation. That’s the secret behind his success.”
“In some matches, a player would feel why he did not let me bowl, but he knows how to use a player. That’s why he is called a great mind.”
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