Former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has never followed the usual script after retirement, and his latest remarks only reinforce that image. Now 44, the three-time ICC trophy-winning skipper has spoken candidly about a popular post-retirement path many legends embrace—but one he appears keen to avoid. In a rare interaction, Dhoni explained why stepping into the commentary box is far more complicated than it appears, offering a glimpse into his thoughtful, guarded approach to the game even years after retiring from international cricket.

MS Dhoni opens up on commentary stint

Dhoni has largely stayed away from public cricket discussions since calling time on his international career in 2020. Apart from his continued presence in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he still turns out for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), the former captain has maintained a low profile. That silence has often sparked speculation about whether he might one day take up commentary—a move that feels natural for someone of his stature. However, speaking to sports broadcaster Jatin Sapru, Dhoni made it clear why the idea does not appeal to him.

“Commentary is very difficult,” Dhoni said, stressing that the challenge lies not in knowledge of the game, but in the tone and responsibility that come with analysing it live.

At the heart of Dhoni’s hesitation is what he calls a ‘very fine line’ commentators must constantly walk. According to him, describing a match can easily slip into criticising players—sometimes without the commentator even realising it.

“I feel there is a very fine line between describing the game and, in that process, getting into a zone where you start criticising individuals who are playing the game. It is a very thin line,” added the Ranchi-born cricketer.

He explained that while analysts may intend to be honest and informative, the pressure of live commentary can lead to remarks that feel personal to players on the field. Dhoni believes that staying on the safer side—simply describing what is happening—is harder than it sounds, especially when emotions and expectations run high.

“Often, you do not even feel that what you are doing may be borderline wrong. You would always like to be on the other side where you are describing the game. If you feel something is wrong you say it out,” observed Dhoni.

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Empathy matters when teams struggle

Dhoni also highlighted the emotional intelligence required to be a good commentator. When a team is losing, he feels there are always deeper reasons behind the performance, and explaining those reasons without sounding harsh is an art in itself.

According to him, commentary is not just about pointing out mistakes but about presenting context in a way that no individual feels singled out. That balance, Dhoni suggested, demands sensitivity, restraint, and an ability to choose words carefully—skills he believes are essential but often underestimated.

“How to put it, that is also an art, how to politely put it forward where nobody feels targeted. If the team is losing, there are reasons behind it, and you need to have the skill of describing those reasons without anybody feeling bad. That is the art of commentary,” MSD added further.

Another reason Dhoni feels unsuited to the role is his own relationship with statistics. Unlike many modern commentators who thrive on data and historical comparisons, Dhoni admits he has never been deeply attached to numbers—even his own.

He pointed out that there are experts who can recall statistics across eras and teams with ease, something he openly says is not his strength. In a format where numbers often drive narratives, Dhoni feels that gap would put him at a disadvantage.

“I am not good with stats. There are a lot of people who are very good with stats. They know stats. If you ask me about my stats, I will be like ‘hmm’. There are certain people who know stats not just about the Indian team or Indian players but about everyone throughout the era,” explained the former skipper.

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