Former South Africa captain Graham Smith has once again expressed his admiration for MS Dhoni and said that he wants to see all the Indian stars in his domestic franchise league, the SA20, but it is the legendary wicketkeeper that he wants to see in action in the rainbow nation. .
Earlier this year, Smith, the Commissioner of the SA20 League, said that he wanted MS Dhoni to participate in the SA20 league after his retirement and now, on the occasion of the opening of ‘India SA20 Day’ in Mumbai, he reiterated his sentiments. .
MS Dhoni on Graham Smith’s SA20 wishlist
The fans of the former Indian captain are simply legendary and transcend borders and languages. Known for his calm demeanor, charismatic leadership and exceptional batting, Dhoni revolutionized Indian cricket, leading the team to victory in major tournaments such as the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup, 2011 ICC World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy.
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Apart from his leadership, Dhoni’s impact on the game is immense, shaping the future of Indian cricket and inspiring millions to follow the sport with passion and dedication. MS Dhoni is also known for his explosive finishing, cool attitude, innovative shooting and unflappable composure under pressure, making him one of the best finishers in cricket.
Meanwhile, speaking at the launch of ‘SA20 India Day’ in Mumbai, Graham Smith created excitement by hinting at the possibility of MS Dhoni playing in SA20. Smith casually suggested that the legendary Indian wicketkeeper should come out of retirement for a year in South Africa’s T20 league after retiring from the IPL.
We have to take him to South Africa soon: Graham Smith on MS Dhoni
The SA20 League commissioner also said that there are many indications in India that they want to play in their tournament, but it is their ultimate wish that legendary Indian cricketer MS Dhoni graces the South African league.
Graham Smith said, “Oh, look, I mean, I always make fun of MS, you know, he should retire so we can squeeze him in for a year in South Africa. But yeah, listen , I mean, as much as I’ve played against, I think, you know, if I was playing, I’d want to keep Zaheer Khan away. But, you know, otherwise, yeah, just superstars all over. But, you know, I always tease MS; I’ve played against him a lot. So, you know, we’ve got to get him to South Africa.”
Q: Which Indian cricketer would you like to see in SA20?
Graham Smith: MS Dhoni 😎💛
He knows who can attract audiences and brands to his league. pic.twitter.com/tukuvVkbvY
— ` (@WorshipDhoni) December 4, 2024
Smith wants BCCI to allow Indian players to participate in SA20
Meanwhile, Graham Smith also expressed optimism about Indian players in the SA20 league going forward. Referring to the admiration of Indian cricketers in South Africa, he said, “Indian talent is also loved in South Africa. We can’t wait to see the Indian players in the South African conditions and the competitive nature it brings.”
Signing off, Smith said: “I think South Africa is back in the sport, India has been a great friend to South Africa. Indian fans have definitely developed a strong bond with South African cricket. So, from an SA20 perspective, India is a very important market for us. The fan base here is cricket lovers and we want to grow and make sure more people tune in and love the game.”
