Who Are the Two Mahendra's Influencing Jadeja's Cricket Journey?
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Synopsis
In a revealing podcast, Ravindra Jadeja shares how two pivotal figures, both named Mahendra, shaped his cricketing career. Discover the impact of his childhood coach and the legendary MS Dhoni as Jadeja opens up about his journey in Indian cricket.
Key Takeaways
- Ravindra Jadeja credits two Mahendra's for his cricketing success.
- Mahendra Singh Chauhan shaped his early training and fitness.
- MS Dhoni provided mentorship throughout his career.
- Jadeja emphasizes the importance of fitness and running.
- Virat Kohli's positive mindset was key to his leadership.
New Delhi, May 28 (NationPress) One of India's most significant all-rounders in recent years, Ravindra Jadeja disclosed that the two individuals who had the most considerable impact on his illustrious career in Indian cricket were both from Bihar and shared the same first name.
In a recent podcast with his teammate from India and Chennai Super Kings, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jadeja mentioned, "My cricketing journey is framed by two Mahendra's: my childhood coach Mahendra Singh Chauhan and my mentor Mahendra Singh Dhoni."
"I began my cricketing journey in Jamnagar, at a venue called 'Cricket Bungalow', when I was around 8-9 years old. My coach, who still trains at the same ground, hails from Bihar and is named Mahendra Singh Chauhan. I have conveyed this to Mahi bhai as well: my journey has been between two Mahendra's - Mahendra Singh Chauhan and Mahendra Singh Dhoni."
"He was a police officer, and he believed that a sportsperson must maintain peak fitness. He thought that while batting and bowling could be managed, running was crucial. My fitness and fielding skills stem from running 15-20 kms around Jamnagar," Jadeja shared on 'Kutti Stories with Ash.'
Later in the podcast, when Ashwin asked Jadeja to encapsulate Dhoni in a single word, Jadeja replied, "There is no single word to capture his greatness. He stands above everyone else."
Jadeja and Ashwin have often been Dhoni's trusted bowlers in critical situations, not only for India but also integral to CSK's achievements.
Additionally, Jadeja discussed India's most successful Test captain, Virat Kohli, who recently retired from the longest format of the game. The 36-year-old elaborated on what set Kohli apart.
"His positive mindset—especially in Tests—was remarkable. Virat always aimed for the team to secure 20 wickets in a Test match, so he never backed down. Whether it was a three-hour session or 45 overs remaining, he would still strive to take all 10 wickets of the opposition," Jadeja commented.
Kohli concluded his Test career with an impressive total of 9230 runs in 123 matches, boasting an average of 46.85, complemented by 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries.
Point of View
Emphasizing that success is often a collaborative effort.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the two Mahendra's in Jadeja's career?
The two Mahendra's are his childhood coach, Mahendra Singh Chauhan, and his mentor, Mahendra Singh Dhoni.
What impact did Mahendra Singh Chauhan have on Jadeja?
Mahendra Singh Chauhan instilled a strong fitness regimen and batting techniques, shaping Jadeja's early cricketing skills.
How did MS Dhoni influence Jadeja's career?
MS Dhoni served as a mentor for Jadeja, guiding him through critical moments in his career and contributing to his success.
What are Jadeja's thoughts on Virat Kohli's captaincy?
Jadeja praised Kohli's positive approach, emphasizing his relentless pursuit of taking 20 wickets in a Test match.
What is Jadeja's fitness routine as mentioned in the podcast?
Jadeja mentioned running 15-20 kms around Jamnagar, which contributed to his fitness and fielding skills.
