Published: Sep 04, 2014, 04:11 PM (IST)
Edited: Sep 04, 2014, 04:11 PM (IST)
Sep 4, 2014
Indian skipper MS Dhoni said that he would move away from cricket the day he realises that he is no longer one of the fastest movers in the team. Dhoni spoke at lengths on various aspects of his career in an interview to commentator Mark Nicholas which was published in All Out Cricket.
Dhoni was asked by Nicholas about whether “My job is to get the team right and then move away. I couldn’t stand down after the tour here three years ago. I don’t believe in deserting when the chips are down. And speed, I’ll know it is time to finish when I am no longer one of the fastest movers in the team. At that point I will surely know age is winning,” Dhoni said in the interview.
“I would like to build some academies, to provide facilities and opportunities for the young,” he added. However, the Indian skipper also wishes to serve the army. He was conferred with an honorary title of Lieutenant Colonel in November 2011 along with shooter Abhinav Bindra.
“Cricket is not everything, not by any means, but it is a large part of who I am. Therefore I want to play in all formats of the game and to play as much as possible because before long it will be over. Then I’ll focus more on the Army!” he said.
Dhoni’s honourary rank is in the Parachute Regiment. Speaking about choosing the specific regiment, Dhoni said, “I have made a real study of manoeuvres, of geography and physics, and of mental application to various challenges. I had the choice of four regiments but chose a fifth, the Parachutes, because it is a hundred per cent volunteer regiment.
“They are derived from the British SAS – an incredible unit, you know – and I felt I would be able to contribute more with them later in life. I believe I know enough to justify the honour and was worthy of it. One day I will train with them and I will jump with them too because I am keen to truly earn my wings.”
