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MS Dhoni tells his bikers stuff they thought he didn't know

Skipper surprises members of Mahi Racing Team India with technical knowhow.

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After a disastrous 2012, things are looking up for MS Dhoni. Forbes named him the richest Indian sportsperson with a total earning of Rs 135.16 crore in January. He just lead India to a 4-0 whitewash against Australia at home. And his latest venture, Mahi Racing Team India, which competes in the Supersport World Championship, got off to a winning start in the first race at Phillip Island, Australia.

Their riders, Kenan Sofuoglu and Fabien Foret, on a short trip to India, talked highly about their owner whom they fondly refer to — like all of us — Mahi. The Indian skipper met a few of his riders on Friday night over dinner. He shifted gears smoothly while discussing the technical aspects of bikes and subtleties of racing.

“We didn’t speak much about the sport but most of the discussion was based around bikes. We were surprised by his knowledge in the subject. He also asked us tips about racing bikes on a track,” Sofuoglu, who won the race at Phillip Island, told DNA.

Form Harleys to Ducatis, Dhoni has more than a dozen bikes in his collection. But if you think they are his prized possessions, you are mistaken. “He is not too concerned about the superbikes he owns. His most cherished bikes are his old ones. I can’t recollect the name but he said ‘I can buy the new ones anytime but it will be difficult for me find the old ones’,” said Sofuoglu.

The Turkish rider felt Dhoni had no airs about him even though he was one of the country’s top sportsmen. “He is grounded. I like it when he talks about his humble beginning,” he said.

Frenchman Foret, who finished fourth in the first race, was keen to know how Indian cricketers, especially Dhoni, handled pressure.

“He explained to us how he would follow his cricket passion and not allow pressure of results to bog him down,” said Foret, adding that Sofuoglu and he have started following a bit of cricket after their last meeting with Dhoni during the team launch.

“He also told us that the pressure would build by the time we come here in November for the race. We will be prepared for it,” said Foret, who also promised Dhoni his helmet.
Both the riders, who had a interaction with the Group of Delhi Superbikers at the Buddh International Circuit, were left spellbound by the track layout. The last round of the Championship will be held at the circuit in November.

“It’s a very demanding circuit. It will be very hard to get a correct line through the corners. It is technically the most challenging circuit on the calendar. I want to seal the championship before I come to the circuit, so that I can enjoy the race,” said Sofuoglu.

p_rajesh@dnaindia.net
@rajeshpansare

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