Iconic MS Dhoni is one of the best fits in the role of a mentor for Team India. The former Indian skipper’s successful stint with India is well known across the world as he led the team in both ODI and T20I formats to win the title. As India will enter in 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup as defending champions, the Board of Cricket Control for India (BCCI) has all the right reasons to appoint legendary Dhoni as a mentor.
According to a report, the BCCI has knocked on the doors of Dhoni, who is known for his calm demeanour on the field, to offer him a broader role after working as a mentor in the 2021 T20 World Cup. At that time, Ravi Shastri served as the India coach.
The buzz is high regarding Dhoni coming back for one more important assignment. His off-field experiences also inspire young cricketers and fans. There is no doubt about his expertise in cricket and how to handle pressure without losing calmness and focus. However, there is no official confirmation from either the BCCI or Dhoni’s end. Also, appointing Dhoni for a new role when Gautam Gambhir is the head coach comes with a heavy cost to pay.
Why MS Dhoni Is the Perfect Mentor for Team India?
Dhoni is counted among the best cricket captains across the world. He knows how to handle tough situations and stay calm under pressure with dexterity to recognise players’ talents and bring the best out of them.
Dhoni retired from international cricket in 2020 after a game-changing era for Team India. In Dhoni’s captaincy, India clinched the first T20I World Cup in 2007, ending the drought of ICC trophies after a lot of missed chances over the years. Under his leadership, India appeared in the 2014 T20 World Cup final.
The BCCI is aware of Dhoni’s cricketing acumen in IPL too. In IPL 2025, Dhoni extended his stint with the five-time IPL champion, Chennai Super Kings, for one more season with an open mind to return for the 19th edition too. Still energetic at 44, Dhoni’s immense contribution to elevating the status of the franchise is praiseworthy.
Hurdles on Dhoni’s Way to Team India Mentorship
Will Dhoni accept the BCCI’s possible offer? It will be interesting to see how this situation takes a turn, as former India cricketer Gautam Gambhir is currently the head coach of India. Their association is a rare possibility as they have had a rift in the past. In various interviews, Gambhir openly criticised Dhoni. If Dhoni refuses this offer, it might be one of the big reasons for him to step away.
When India claimed the title in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, Gautam Gambhir was sworn in as the head coach. Dhoni may not want the negative environment around the dressing room affecting the energy of players. Only if there is clarity in both Gambhir’s and Dhoni’s minds about each other’s involvement in India’s campaign can Dhoni agree to assume a new role.
MS Dhoni brings vast experience with a lot of knowledge to share with the young team. The 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup is set to begin in February 2026, with India and Sri Lanka co-hosting the mega event.
With only five months remaining, the BCCI is focused on retaining the title. In Dhoni’s mentorship, Team India will feel empowered, prepared and calm before the high-pressure game kicks off. The final call rests on the legend himself.
