Cricket has many different types of shots, and over time, players have come up with new and creative ways to hit the ball. One such shot that fans love all around the world is called the helicopter shot. It’s a very daring move, but if done right, it can bring big rewards.
The helicopter shot is when a batsman swings the cricket bat really hard, and after hitting the ball, the bat follows a unique path that looks like the rotating blades of a helicopter. It’s an exciting stroke that can lead to the ball going far and scoring lots of runs.
Who Taught Helicopter Shot to Dhoni?
Mahendra Singh Dhoni, one of the most successful captains and cricketers in the history of the game, is renowned for his ability to execute the helicopter shot with precision and power. However, Dhoni did not invent this stroke himself. The credit for teaching Dhoni the helicopter shot goes to Santosh Lal, a childhood friend of Dhoni, who taught him how to play the shot.
Dhoni’s childhood coach Keshav Banerjee, recognizing Dhoni’s immense talent, saw an opportunity to harness his power and create a stroke that would astonish the opposition and provide Dhoni with an advantage. He spent countless hours refining the technique with Dhoni, fine-tuning the timing, grip, and follow-through. Through immense dedication and hard work, Dhoni mastered the helicopter shot and unleashed it on the world stage, leaving bowlers and spectators in awe of his batting prowess.
Who is the King of Helicopter Shot?
When it comes to the king of the helicopter shot, it is none other than Mahendra Singh Dhoni himself. Dhoni’s mastery of this stroke has earned him this title, and he is widely regarded as the best exponent of the helicopter shot in cricket history. The sheer power and timing with which he executes this stroke are unparalleled, often resulting in sixes sailing over the boundary ropes. Dhoni’s ability to generate tremendous bat speed and rotate his body during the follow-through allows him to clear long boundaries effortlessly. His execution of the helicopter shot is a testament to his skill, strength, and innovative approach to the game.
Dhoni’s proficiency in the helicopter shot has been on full display in various high-pressure situations, where he has single-handedly turned the tide of matches. His ability to hit the ball with immense power, even against the most formidable bowlers, has made him a nightmare for opponents. Dhoni’s helicopter shot has become synonymous with his batting style, and his success with this stroke has made him a cricketing legend.
First Helicopter Shot in Cricket
The helicopter shot is commonly believed to have been first invented by Dhoni. However, there’s interesting evidence suggesting that Sachin Tendulkar might have actually played it in 2002, which was two years before Dhoni made his debut.
Top 5 Helicopter Shots in Cricket
Over the years, we have witnessed several breathtaking helicopter shots in cricket. Let us take a look at some of the most memorable ones:
MS Dhoni – Who better to start the list than the master himself? Dhoni’s helicopter shots have left fans in awe on numerous occasions, with his brutal hitting and unique follow-through. His helicopter shot against Pakistan in the 2011 World Cup semifinals is etched in the memory of every cricket lover.
Ab de Villiers – Known for his unorthodox and innovative batting, de Villiers has also showcased his mastery of the helicopter shot. His ability to hit the ball cleanly and generate immense power has made his helicopter shots a treat to watch.
Kieron Pollard – The tall and powerful West Indian all-rounder has the ability to launch the ball into orbit with his helicopter shots. Pollard’s brute strength combined with his impeccable timing has resulted in some colossal sixes over the years.
Chris Gayle – The ‘Universe Boss’ is not one to be left behind when it comes to hitting the ball out of the park. Gayle’s helicopter shots have been a spectacle, with his towering sixes leaving bowlers dumbfounded.
Yuvraj Singh – One of India’s most stylish left-handed batsmen, Yuvraj Singh has also showcased his prowess with the helicopter shot. His clean striking and elegant follow-through have made his helicopter shots a visual delight.
These are just a few examples of the breathtaking helicopter shots witnessed in cricket. The ability of these players to execute this stroke with such finesse and power is a testament to their exceptional talent and dedication to the game.
The helicopter shot, an innovative stroke that has revolutionized the game of cricket, has its origins in the coaching and mentorship provided to Mahendra Singh Dhoni by Santosh Lal, his childhood friend. Dhoni’s mastery of this shot has elevated him to the status of the “King of Helicopter Shot” and has left cricket enthusiasts in awe of his batting prowess. The helicopter shot has also been embraced by other talented cricketers, who have showcased their skills and power with this stroke. As fans, we continue to marvel at the breathtaking helicopter shots that grace the cricketing world, celebrating the ingenuity and creativity of these remarkable players.