India all-rounder Axar Patel has revealed how a life-changing conversation with MS Dhoni during the 2021 T20 World Cup helped turn his cricket career around. Speaking in a video shared by the Delhi Capitals, Axar shared how Dhoni gave him astrological advice at a time when he was struggling with selection issues despite staying fit and performing consistently.
The advice, unusual for a modern cricketer, proved to be a turning point for Axar, who is now one of India’s most reliable all-rounders in white-ball cricket.
Axar Patel recalled feeling confused and frustrated during the T20 World Cup 2021. He had been doing well in domestic and IPL matches, staying injury-free and fit, but still wasn’t getting chances in the Indian squad.
“When Mahi bhai was mentoring the team during the T20 World Cup, I told him, ‘I don’t understand what’s happening. I am performing well, I am fit, but still not getting selected,’” Axar said.
MS Dhoni, who has often surprised players with his unconventional wisdom, gave Axar an unexpected answer.
“He said, ‘Your planets are moving here and there, I’ll tell you what to do,’” Axar revealed.
“He asked me to perform some rituals, and I actually went and did all of that,” Axar added.
What followed was a major change in his cricketing journey.
“After that, I got selected for the Indian team again, and now I’m playing consistently,” he said.
Axar has since become a vital player for Team India, contributing in multiple series and tournaments. He played key roles in India’s T20 World Cup 2024 win and their recent Champions Trophy 2025 triumph.
The former CSK captain didn’t stop supporting Axar after giving the initial advice. He continued to track Axar’s performances and congratulated him after major wins.
“After we won the T20 World Cup and then the Champions Trophy, he messaged me saying he was happy for me. It felt great,” Axar shared.
Currently leading Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025, Axar has already guided his team to back-to-back wins. The next match is a big one—against MS Dhoni’s Chennai Super Kings at Chepauk.
Although Dhoni has stepped down as CSK captain, his impact on young players continues. For Axar Patel, that one chat with Dhoni turned out to be more than just a pep talk—it changed the course of his career.
As Axar gears up to face Dhoni’s CSK, fans are reminded once again why MS Dhoni’s influence goes far beyond the cricket field.
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