Captain Cool Explains His Silence: Dhoni Says Commentary Is Tough Without Mastery of Numbers |

Updated: February 05, 2026 12:25

Image Source: BBC

Former India captain MS Dhoni revealed why he has stayed away from commentary after retirement. He admitted that commentary is “difficult” because it demands constant use of statistics, something he isn’t comfortable with. Dhoni also highlighted the fine line between describing the game and criticizing players, preferring to avoid that challenge.

Dhoni’s Honest Take on Commentary

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, India’s legendary wicketkeeper-batsman and captain, has once again shown his trademark candor. In a recent interaction with sports broadcaster Jatin Sapru on YouTube, Dhoni explained why he has not pursued commentary, a popular post-retirement path for many cricketers.

Key Highlights

Difficulty with statistics: Dhoni admitted he is “not good with stats,” making commentary a tough role for him. Unlike many former players who seamlessly recall numbers, Dhoni prefers to stay away from this data-heavy responsibility.
Fine line in commentary: He emphasized the delicate balance between describing the game and unintentionally criticizing players. Dhoni believes commentary can easily slip into judgment, something he consciously avoids.
Different post-retirement path: While contemporaries like Sunil Gavaskar, Ravi Shastri, and Dinesh Karthik have thrived in the commentary box, Dhoni has chosen to remain connected to cricket only through his IPL appearances with Chennai Super Kings.
Focus on privacy: Known for his reserved nature, Dhoni continues to keep his opinions private, rarely offering public analysis of matches since retiring from international cricket in 2020.

Why This Matters

Dhoni’s statement reflects his unique personality - calm, composed, and focused on action rather than words. His reluctance to join commentary underscores his preference for staying away from the limelight and avoiding roles that demand constant statistical recall. For fans, it’s another reminder of why Dhoni remains enigmatic even after retirement.

Broader Context

Commentary as a second innings: Many former cricketers use commentary to extend their careers, offering insights and staying relevant in the cricketing ecosystem.
Dhoni’s choice: By opting out, Dhoni reinforces his individuality, showing that not every legend needs to follow the same path. His continued presence in the IPL ensures fans still see him on the field, rather than behind the microphone.

Sources: Hindustan Times, India Today, Press Trust of India

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