Title: MS Dhoni has nicknamed me Maria Sharapova because of my grunting: Mohit Sharma
Cricket is a game of nuances, and sometimes, it’s the smallest details that can have a significant impact on the outcome of a match. For Indian pacer Mohit Sharma, it’s his distinctive grunting sound that has caught the attention of his former captain, MS Dhoni. In a recent interview, Mohit revealed that Dhoni had nicknamed him Maria Sharapova, the former world number one women’s tennis player, due to his loud grunting.
“Dhoni used to say, ‘You grunt as loud as some of the tennis players’,” Mohit said in an interview. “I’d say, ‘With grunt, batters will feel ball will come at 145-150kmph even though it comes slower…so it’s a plus point for me’.” (1)
Mohit’s grunting has been a subject of discussion among cricket fans and experts alike. Some have praised it as a unique skill that helps him deceive batsmen, while others have criticized it as a way to intimidate opponents. Whatever the perception, it’s clear that Mohit’s grunting has become an integral part of his bowling style.
But what’s interesting is that Dhoni, known for his calm and composed demeanor on the field, has taken a liking to Mohit’s grunting. In fact, he’s been so impressed that he’s nicknamed him Maria Sharapova, a nod to the tennis star’s famous grunting style. Sharapova’s grunting became a topic of controversy in the tennis world, with some accusing her of using it to gain an unfair advantage.
In cricket, grunting is not uncommon among fast bowlers. It’s a way to generate power and momentum, helping them to bowl at higher speeds. However, Mohit’s grunting is unique in that it’s more pronounced and audible than most other bowlers. It’s almost as if he’s channeling his inner tennis player, using the grunt to generate extra speed and accuracy.
So, what’s the secret behind Mohit’s grunting? According to him, it’s all about mental preparation and focus. “When I bowl, I try to focus on my breathing and my grunt,” he said. “It helps me to get into the zone and channel my energy into the ball.” (2)
Dhoni, who has been a mentor to Mohit in the Indian cricket team, has been instrumental in helping him develop his unique style. As a wicket-keeper batsman, Dhoni is known for his exceptional skills behind the stumps, and his ability to read the game is unparalleled. He’s also been known to provide valuable advice to his bowlers, helping them to improve their game.
In Mohit’s case, Dhoni’s advice has been instrumental in helping him develop his grunting style. “Dhoni used to tell me to grunt louder and more consistently,” Mohit said. “He’d say, ‘It’s not just about bowling fast, it’s about bowling with precision and accuracy.’ He’d tell me to use my grunt to help me get into the right rhythm and pace.” (3)
Mohit’s grunting has become a defining feature of his bowling style, and it’s a testament to the importance of mental preparation in cricket. As he continues to evolve as a bowler, it’ll be interesting to see how he uses his grunting to gain an edge over his opponents.
In conclusion, Mohit Sharma’s grunting has become an integral part of his bowling style, and it’s a testament to the unique skills that make him a formidable fast bowler. Whether you love it or hate it, his grunting is a reminder that cricket is a game of nuances, and sometimes, it’s the smallest details that can have a significant impact on the outcome of a match.
Source:
(1) https://x.com/ESPNcricinfo/status/1912158976839426188
