How Did Santosh Lal Gift the Helicopter Shot to Dhoni?
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Synopsis
On July 17, Ranchi honors Santosh Lal, the man who taught Mahendra Singh Dhoni the iconic helicopter shot. Discover how this unsung hero's influence shaped cricket history, and why Dhoni credits him for this game-changing technique.
Key Takeaways
- Santosh Lal taught Mahendra Singh Dhoni the helicopter shot.
- He left a remarkable legacy despite not playing internationally.
- The bond between Santosh and Dhoni showcases the importance of mentorship.
- His story reflects the grassroots nature of Indian cricket.
- Fans continue to honor his memory and contributions.
Ranchi, July 17 (NationPress) Before it became Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s signature move on the global cricketing stage, the famous helicopter shot was merely a clever stroke executed on the dusty fields of Ranchi -- initially mastered by Santosh Lal, affectionately known as Bunty.
On the occasion of his 12th death anniversary on Thursday, Ranchi pays tribute to the unsung hero who imparted this now-legendary shot to Dhoni, his childhood companion.
Although Santosh left this world on July 17, 2013, at the tender age of just 29, his legacy in Indian cricket has woven itself into the fabric of folklore.
It was Bunty who demonstrated to Dhoni how to strike the ball powerfully with a mere flick of the wrists -- a technique absent from coaching manuals, yet it would come to define Dhoni’s signature style and captivate cricket enthusiasts around the world.
This poignant story is even depicted in the film 'MS Dhoni: The Untold Story', where the moment Santosh Lal teaches the helicopter shot to Dhoni is portrayed with affection. The payment? A samosa -- a small gesture for a skill that would become priceless in cricket.
In multiple interviews, Dhoni has credited this unique contribution, asserting that the shot might not have been part of his repertoire without Bunty.
While Santosh did not don the Indian jersey, he made his mark in domestic cricket. As a middle-order batsman and medium pacer, he represented Jharkhand in eight first-class matches, 16 List A matches, and six T20 encounters. His final appearance came in March 2010, just before illness abruptly ended his career and life.
Chanchal Bhattacharya, who coached both Dhoni and Santosh, fondly reminisces about their early days. “Back then, both boys were stars in Ranchi’s cricketing community,” he shared with IANS.
Santosh first gained recognition in tennis-ball cricket, and a remarkable 106-run performance in an East Zone inter-university match secured him a spot in the state Ranji squad.
On Thursday, fans took to social media to remember Santosh on his death anniversary, sharing heartfelt tributes.
One fan expressed: "You left us too soon… yet you gifted something that enriched cricket. There will never be another like you. Salute."
The helicopter shot has since become a key aspect of Dhoni’s gameplay -- but in Ranchi, it will always be remembered as Bunty’s signature shot.
Point of View
The story of Santosh Lal embodies the essence of grassroots cricket in India. His contribution, though overshadowed by mainstream narratives, highlights the significance of local heroes in shaping the future of sports. The bond between Santosh and Dhoni represents the power of mentorship and friendship in sports, reminding us that greatness is often nurtured in humble beginnings.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Santosh Lal?
Santosh Lal, affectionately known as Bunty, was a talented cricketer from Ranchi who taught Mahendra Singh Dhoni the iconic helicopter shot.
What is the helicopter shot?
The helicopter shot is a unique cricket stroke that involves flicking the ball with the wrists to generate power, and it became synonymous with Dhoni's playing style.
Why is Santosh Lal significant in cricket history?
Although he never played for the national team, Santosh's teaching of the helicopter shot to Dhoni has left a lasting impact on Indian cricket.
What recognition did Santosh Lal receive?
Santosh is remembered fondly in Ranchi and has been acknowledged by Dhoni in interviews as a crucial influence on his career.
When did Santosh Lal pass away?
Santosh Lal passed away on July 17, 2013, at the age of 29.
