Sreesanth recalls first meeting with MS Dhoni during a Duleep Trophy match - 'He was sitting in a quiet place'

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IPL 2023: S Sreesanth has revealed about first-ever interaction with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni. Sreesanth, who was part of Dhoni-led India squad which won the 2007 T20 World Cup and ODI World Cup in 2011, said that he first met Dhoni during a Duleep Trophy match.

The former India pacer stated that when first saw Dhoni in Dharamshala in a Duleep Trophy match between South Zone and East Zone, he was sitting in a quiet corner. Further, Sreesanth added that Dhoni, even before becoming the superstar of the game, stood out because of his humility.

"I will go all the way back. Duleep Trophy match. I remember South Zone was playing East Zone in Dharamshala. It was my second year of Duleep Trophy. Dhoni was not playing that match and I guess Deep Dasgupta was the wicketkeeper in that game and he got injured as Dhoni got the opportunity in the final.

"He scored a hundred, the same way attacking from ball one. Even opening he scored a hundred. Why I am saying that is the best moment because in Dharamshala he was not in the playing eleven. He was quiet and sitting in a quiet place," Sreesanth said when asked about his favourite MS Dhoni momentum.

"Obviously when you see a new cricketer you want to go and talk to him. The way he talked to me and even people serving him, much before he was a superstar. He is the same today as well. He does not differentiate between a big celebrity and a doorman. That's a quality every individual should have," he added.

The IPL is again witnessing a buzz around Dhoni because of the anticipated retirement post the ongoing 2023 season. The 41-year-old has led the four-time champions to five wins in nine matches so far. CSK are currently placed fourth in the IPL 2023 points table.