WATCH] ‘I liked his phase 1’ - Sourav Ganguly recalls ‘six-hitting machine' MS Dhoni's early days

Published - 15 May 2026, 15:31 IST | Updated - 15 May 2026, 15:34 IST

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly recently shared an interesting take on the evolution of MS Dhoni as a batter, recalling the explosive version of Dhoni that first arrived on the international scene.

The legendary Indian batter admitted that while Dhoni went on to become one of India’s greatest captains and finishers, he personally enjoyed watching the “Phase 1” version of the wicketkeeper-batter more.

“I have rarely seen a player who hits a six like MS Dhoni. When he came into the Indian team when I was the captain, he used to hit a lot of sixes. After that, I didn’t like MS Dhoni from phase 2. I liked MS Dhoni from phase 1,” Ganguly said on a Raj Shamani podcast.

Dhoni made his India debut in 2004 under Ganguly’s captaincy and quickly became known for his fearless batting and massive six-hitting ability. The former India skipper fondly remembered those early days when Dhoni would attack bowlers from the very start.

When asked about the difference between the two phases, Ganguly explained that the younger Dhoni played with much more freedom and aggression.

“He used to hit sixes. He used to hit sixes for fun, whenever he picked up the bat. I didn’t like MS Dhoni who later on used to take singles and doubles. Anyway, later on became such a big player, such a big captain for India,” he added.

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Dhoni’s transformation as a batter became evident as his career progressed. While the early years showcased his raw power and attacking instincts, the later phase saw him develop into a calculated finisher who mastered pacing chases and guiding India under pressure.

His tactical brilliance also helped India win all major ICC trophies, including the inaugural ICC World Twenty20 2007, the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011, and the ICC Champions Trophy 2013. He is regarded as one of India’s greatest cricketers ever for his immense contribution both as batter and as captain.