'Dhoni plays father's role in my cricketing life': Matheesha Pathirana hails CSK legend

Apart from his cricketing acumen on the ground, former India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni is also well known for his talent to nurture youngsters.

The Captain Cool has played a pivotal role in cultivating a rich pool of Indian cricketers like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to batting stardom, among many others. Under Dhoni's astute leadership, CSK have clinched a record 5 titles, witnessing the transformation of budding talents like Suresh Raina and Ravindra Jadeja into world-class cricketers.

Only Indian cricketers have not been benefitted under Dhoni's guidance only. Sri Lanka's Matheesha Pathirana was also spotted and groomed by Dhoni into a utility speedster.It was at CSK where Pathirana first announced his arrival to the cricketing fraternity in 2022, eventually making his national debut the same year.

In response, Pathirana showed his immense gratitude to Dhoni for propelling his career in a recent interaction. Labelling him a father figure in his cricketing life, Pathirana said Dhoni has always supported him.

"After my father, in my cricket life, Dhoni) plays my father's role. He takes care of me, and he gives me advice on what I have to do, similar to my father's thing when I'm at my home. I think that's enough," said Pathirana during a recent interaction.

"Dhoni doesn't tell me a lot of things when I'm on the field and off the field, but he tells just small things that make a lot of difference and gives me a lot of confidence. He knows how to maintain the players. Off the field, we don't talk much, but if I have to ask something from him, definitely I'd go to him and ask him," he added.