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MS Dhoni (Source: Twitter)
MS Dhoni, the former captain of the Indian cricket team, continues to make headlines for his heartfelt gestures. As the captain of the Chennai Super Kings in the upcoming IPL 2024, Dhoni's bat sticker has become a topic of discussion. Adorned with 'Prime Sports,' symbolising his gratitude to those who have supported him throughout his illustrious journey.
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However, 'Prime Sports' is not the only company that Dhoni has chosen to showcase his affection for. Somi Kohli, the owner of 'Beat All Sports' (BAS), one of India's prominent sports manufacturing companies, revealed an extraordinary anecdote from the 2019 World Cup. Dhoni, during the tournament, sported BAS stickers on his bat without charging a single penny, emphasising his commitment to the goodwill of the relationship.
Kohli shared insights into the pre-World Cup discussions, where he tried to convince Dhoni about the lucrative contract he was forgoing. However, Dhoni remained steadfast in his decision, disregarding the financial benefits involved.
He said, "Dhoni did not mention any money. He just said, 'Put your stickers on my bats and send them across'. I tried to convince him, 'You're letting go of such a lucrative contract'. He let go of crores of rupees worth of contracts. I requested his wife, Sakshi, his father, and his mother. He even told his CA and Paramjit from Ranchi. They all went to his home before the World Cup. But he said, 'No, it is my decision'.”
When did Bas sponsor MS Dhoni?
Dhoni's association with BAS dates back to 1998, when Kohli, seeking young and promising talent, trusted Dhoni and sent him kits. Despite Dhoni's subsequent endorsement deals with various sports brands, Kohli continued to send kits to him, establishing a relationship built on trust and mutual respect.
The journey of their association came full circle in 2004, the same year Dhoni made his debut for the Indian cricket team. That year, he played a scintillating innings, scoring his first ODI century—148 against Pakistan—with 'BAS' proudly displayed on his bat.
Dhoni's commitment to BAS went beyond the cricket field. Kohli, recalling a moment when Dhoni's wife couldn't recognise him, highlighted the deep connection they shared. After Dhoni's explosive century, he made a call to her, saying, 'Aunty, I am Dhoni,' marking a memorable chapter in their enduring friendship.
As MS Dhoni gears up for the IPL 2024, his gestures of gratitude towards those who have supported him underscore the values that define him not just as a cricketer but as a remarkable human being.