Lucknow: Former Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni was in the city on Friday for innaugrating a project named “Sports galaxy by MS Dhoni” in Seth Anandram Jaipuria School. He said that “I was thinking of joining a project where a player can emphasis on improving his skills in sports and concentrate on his studies as well. I joined this project in Lucknow because the schools in the city offer better sporting facilities and offer proper arrangements of stay for coaches and players.
He further said that 60 acre land of the school premises will be utilized for development of sports. “I am really excited about this project and hopefully positive results will outcome in a span of next 4-5 years,” Dhoni said.
“There was a time when players didn’t get much exposure, but in the present days if a small town player performs despite opposing situations, media tends to make him a diamond. Indians are better in skills but somehow lack in fitness. In this case, this project will focus in all round performance and ability of a player, so they can prove their mettle at the International level,” Dhoni added.
UP doesn’t lack cricket talents
Dhoni said that Uttar Pradesh have some of the bright and talented cricketers, who have proved their spunk at the International level. “I will specially like to mention the bowlers from UP, who are masters in swinging the ball in both the direction. Im sure that the state will keep producing players of International caliber,” Dhoni said.
I am Happy for Nepal Cricket
Dhoni also commented on Nepal getting the ODI status. He said “This is a happening news that our neighbours will get to play at International level. “Its (ODI status) a result of their hard-work and sincere effort. I don’t think that participation of small teams will dilute the standard of cricket the world over,”.
“Bench strength of teams like Nepal might not be that good, but sport is for enjoyment and people in Nepal will now look to improve and compete with international teams.”
“Associate nation like Afghanistan and nepal are helping the cause of making the game a global sport,” Dhoni quoted.
Lucknow needs an International match not IPL match.
Digitalsporty asked Dhoni about Lucknow failing to contest an IPL match in 2018 on which the former skipper said “IPL consists of 8 franchise teams, who prefer their home ground as their only venue. None of the franchise showed their interest in Ekana International stadium but that’s not a concern. In my opinion the stadium should contest International match rather than an IPL match, which will help UP cricket to propel in future,”.
