'Though Rahul was the captain...': When Sachin Tendulkar made BCCI notice MS Dhoni's genius

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar unveiled the story behind his decision to decline the captaincy role, which ultimately paved the way for MS Dhoni to take on the leadership position back in 2007. Regarded as one of the most exceptional captains in the history of Indian cricket, Dhoni's journey began when he assumed the reins of the white-ball captaincy after India's remarkable performance in the 50-over World Cup.

He subsequently took charge of the test series as well. However, speculation abounds about how India might have been different had Sachin accepted the captaincy proposal. In 2007, when the opportunity came for him to become the captain, Tendulkar made a pivotal decision that altered the course of Indian cricket history. Instead of stepping into the captain's shoes himself, he chose to endorse and promote Dhoni for the role.

During an event at Infosys in 2022, Sachin shared that this momentous decision took place in England. He pointed to Dhoni among his teammates, recognizing him as the most deserving candidate for the captaincy.

Sachin emphasized that effective captaincy is not just about enthusiasm but also about strategic foresight and a keen understanding of the game's evolving dynamics. He fondly stated, "Leadership goes beyond just passion; it's about the right balance between enthusiasm and wisdom."

In 2008, India ascended to the top rank among cricketing nations during their tour of Australia. This was followed by a momentous victory in the 2nd ODI World Cup in 2011 under Dhoni's astute leadership. Dhoni proved his mettle as a capable leader, steering the team through challenges and successes alike. His journey as captain culminated on 15 August 2020, when he bid farewell to international cricket. Dhoni's legacy remains as one of the most remarkable captains in the annals of Indian cricket.

Reflecting on the journey, Sachin Tendulkar's decision to champion Dhoni as the captain undoubtedly contributed to India's cricketing success over the years. The collaboration between these two cricketing giants will forever be etched in the memories of cricket enthusiasts, showcasing the power of mentorship, leadership, and the art of decision-making in the world of sports.