‘Not my friend, not my elder brother…’: Khaleel on Dhoni

Indian pacer Khaleel Ahmed, in a conversation with Aakash Chopra, expressed deep admiration for MS Dhoni, calling him his “guru.” Khaleel shared heartfelt anecdotes, including Dhoni entrusting him with bowling the first over in the 2018 Asia Cup, fulfilling his childhood dream. He also recalled a memorable moment when Dhoni gifted him flowers during a New Zealand tour. Dhoni’s influence as a mentor continues to inspire cricketers, even after his last IPL appearance in 2024.