Former India captain Sourav Gangulyrecently shared an interesting take on the evolution of MS Dhoni as a batter, recalling the explosive version of Dhoni that first arrived on the international scene. 

The legendary Indian batter admitted that while Dhoni went on to become one of India’s greatest captains and finishers, he personally enjoyed watching the “Phase 1” version of the wicketkeeper-batter more.

“I have rarely seen a player who hits a six like MS Dhoni. When he came into the Indian team when I was the captain, he used to hit a lot of sixes. After that, I didn’t like MS Dhoni from phase 2. I liked MS Dhoni from phase 1,” Ganguly said on a Raj Shamani podcast.

Dhonimade his India debut in 2004 under Ganguly’s captaincy and quickly became known for his fearless batting and massive six-hitting ability. The former India skipper fondly remembered those early days when Dhoni would attack bowlers from the very start.

When asked about the difference between the two phases, Ganguly explained that the younger Dhoni played with much more freedom and aggression.

“He used to hit sixes. He used to hit sixes for fun, whenever he picked up the bat. I didn’t like MS Dhoni who later on used to take singles and doubles. Anyway, later on became such a big player, such a big captain for India,” he added.

Watch the clip here -