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When even 'Captain Cool' MS Dhoni lost it with Yuzvendra Chahal

Yuzvendra Chahal reveals an interesting anecdote involving him and Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

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Yuzvendra Chahal has come a long way in his young career. From coming into the limelight with consistent performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) to establising himself as a mainstay in India's limited-overs sides, the leg-spinner has done well to make a name for himself in world cricket.

Chahal isn't popular just for his game, he's also known for being quick-witted. During a recent interview, the 27-year-old revealed a rather hilarious story about his Team India debut.

"I received the ODI cap from MS Dhoni. He is a legend and the first time I met him I was not even able to talk in front of him. When I met him for the first time in Zimbabwe I used called him Mahi Sir. After a while, he called me over and said, ‘Mahi, Dhoni, Mahendra Singh Dhoni or Bhai… Call me whatever you want but not sir’,” said Chahal. "I said 'okay sir', and Mahi bhai told me to go away, thinking I was hopeless."

Speaking with Gaurav Kapur on the show Breakfast With Champions, Chahal reflected on an array of topics. He explained how Australia's Shane Warne has always been a source of motivation for him.

"Shane Warne was my cricketing hero while growing up. First, my action, during under 14 was similar. In this action, in Haryana under 19, I changed my action in the middle of the match. I ran a little longer and knew there will be less spin and that paid dividends. That turned out to be my best decision. I never overthink in pressure situations because now I am mentally strong," said Chahal.

The diminutive leggie also remebered the day he got his maiden India call-up. “I had a good IPL season and never knew the team was going to be announced. When the names were revealed on the BCCI website, I could believe my eyes and kept looking it for half an hour. Seeing my name I cried a lot. The day I wore the jersey, I can’t even describe in words," he said.

Just like most Indian cricketers of this generation, skipper Virat Kohli has had a deep impact on Chahal too. The duo play together in the IPL for Royal Challengers Bangalore and the cameraderie they share is there for all to see. “Virat bhaiya inspires me a lot. Both on and off the field, he helps me a lot. He told me that my life has changed and I need to stay fit. Now I know that fitness is important. Even I am feeling better after working out”, he said.

Another interesting revelation made by Chahal was his friendship with former Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds. “We’re very close. In 2011, I debuted with Mumbai Indians and he was also there with the team. He was lodged in the room next to mine so one day he came over and we went down to the pool and chatted for a while. Next day, he figured out my phone number from somewhere and messaged me saying, ‘Where are you?’ and we went out again. We developed a great bond from thereon and have been friends ever since.

“Whenever I go to Australia, I love to go fishing with him. He is a great host. His wife even learnt how to cook Butter Chicken for me by following recipes on the internet. When I went there to meet them, there was Butter Chicken ready for me. He is also a very misunderstood person. Not arrogant at all. You get to know the real Andrew Symonds when you spend some time with him. He is always available and has even danced with me on a Haryanvi folk song ‘Ragini’,” added Chahal.

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