Vijay Hazare Trophy: MS Dhoni turns bowler for Jharkhand after memorable train journey with team-mates

MS Dhoni was seen bowling to his Jharkhand team-mates ahead of their campaign against Karnataka at Eden Gardens on February 25.

New Delhi: Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who recently made news for boarding a train after a long gap of 13 years, is busy preparing with the Jharkhand team for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy. At a time when the Indian team is slogging against the visiting Australian team, Dhoni, who will be leading Jharkhand, is keeping a low profile.

As Indian team kicked off their campaign against Australian at Pune on Day 1, Dhoni left no stone unturned in ensuring that his team-mates sweat it out at nets.

He began the day by having a small session with the team-mates after which he divided them into two teams for a football match.

Instead of practicing lusty blows, something he is known for, Dhoni was seen bowling to his team-mates. He spent more time as a bowler in the nets than as a batsman.

His down to earth attitude is a lesson for the likes of Virat Singh, Ishank Jaggi, Ishan Kishan and Saurabh Tiwary, who all idolise the Ranchi-born cricketer.

While there are plenty of things to learn from India's World Cup winning captain, Virat wants to learn his ability to hold nerves under pressure situation.

"I will ask him about the secret behind staying calm and composed in tough situations," Virat was quoted as saying by The Times of India.

Impressive Jharkhand left hander Virat Singh, who was instrumental in East Zone's recent Syed Mushtaq Ali Twenty20 title triumph, said they were privileged to play under the most successful Indian captain during his Vijay Hazare stint.

"He is a legend in Indian cricket for past decade. It really feels great to play under him in this meet. He has so many things to offer. His leadership quality and the way he keeps cool and composed in tense situations is something that inspire us," Virat said.

"I respect him a lot, so I keep a distance from him. But it's not that I'm scared of him. He is very approachable and whenever I am in doubt I seek his advice. I still haven't got the time to interact with him on a one-on-one basis, but will do soon," he added.

Dhoni-led Jharkhand will open their campaign against Karnataka at Eden Gardens on February 25.