Mahendra Singh Dhoni, an iconic figure in the cricket world, has recently been in the news sharing his views on the changing mindset of the modern-day batsman in a very open discussion. The former Indian captain and the Chennai Super Kings player, who is currently 43 years old, places the key emphasis on the way players of this generation redefine risk-taking in the sport by combining the traditional cricketing shots with innovative strokes for staying on top in the game.

"The batters have started to prefer playing risky games," said Dhoni. This was the most remarkable change of attitude he pointed out. He observed that the contemporary batsmen have the confidence to use the proper technique to execute excellent big strokes instead of cultivating the unorthodox methods. According to Dhoni, the merger of discipline and creativity has generated a new era of shot-making. “They have the faith that with the proper cricketing shots, they can take the big shots, and they are also confidently coming out with different shot selections,” he elaborated.

THE REFLEXES OF MS DHONI AT 43. 🥶

- 0.12S for that Sky stumping. 🤯 pic.twitter.com/Pl50olc1od

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) March 23, 2025

Also Read: IPL 2025 viewership trends: KKR vs. RCB draws more attention than CSK vs. MI

Dhoni pointed to specific examples of this evolution, like the reverse scoop against fast bowlers, sweeps, and reverse sweeps against pacers—those were the shots that were once viewed as quite risky but now have become quite common. It is not just a fashion statement but a must in the swift-moving cricketing industry of our time, noted he. “I’m no different; I have to adapt as well,” Dhoni confessed while referring back to his old days as a player who finished the game lower down the order. "This is what is required of me for where I am batting. You have to try and stay relevant."

Dhoni's observations are a testimony to his commitment to keeping pace with the game, even as he moves towards the end of his career, which has been brilliant. His skill to be reborn with time and, at the same time, to be a role model to the next generation of cricketers sets him apart as one of the foremost creative minds in the domain.