“When MS Dhoni’s Door Was Closed, No One Was Allowed”- Ajinkya Rahane’s Sensational Revelation

Ajinkya Rahane’s Sensational Revelation [Source: AFP]

Ajinkya Rahane has shared the dressing room with several Indian cricket legends, including Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni. Over the years, Rahane has seen different leadership styles up close. 

However, his experience with MS Dhoni stands out, especially when it comes to the former India captain’s calm nature and unique way of connecting with teammates.

Notably, Ajinkya Rahane recently announced his retirement from all formats of cricket, bringing an end to a career that lasted 17 years. During his career, he represented India in 85 Tests, 90 ODIs, and 20 T20Is between 2011 and 2023.

Ajinkya Rahane Reveals MS Dhoni’s Strict Policy

Before announcing his retirement, Rahane appeared on The Overlap Cricket with Michael Vaughan, Sir Alastair Cook, Phil Tufnell and David “Bumble” Lloyd. During the conversation, Vaughan asked Rahane what Dhoni was really like away from the cricket field.

Rahane gave a simple answer and described Dhoni as a “Very normal human being, just like everyone.” He then revealed an interesting rule that Dhoni followed when it came to his hotel room. According to Rahane, MS Dhoni’s hotel room door was often left open. This was his way of letting teammates know that they could walk in, relax and spend time with him.

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However, there was one strict rule. When Dhoni’s door was open, players were welcome to enter. On the other hand, when the door was closed, nobody was allowed to disturb him.

"His room was almost always open for anyone to do anything. So many times, 10 to 15 of them or even the whole team was in his room. But when his door was shut, no one was allowed," said Rahane.

Watch the video here: 

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"When his door was closed, no one was allowed in!" 😅 Ajinkya Rahane on what MS Dhoni is really like. 👀 🇮🇳 [@ajinkyarahane88]

Aug 7, 2026, 9:19 PM

MS Dhoni Created A Comfortable Team Environment

This simple habit showed how Dhoni managed to create a comfortable environment for his teammates. Young players could approach him without feeling nervous, while at the same time, Dhoni made sure that his personal space was respected.

It is important to note that Rahane and Dhoni shared the dressing room for India as well as in the IPL. They played together for Rising Pune Supergiant and later for CSK.

Notably, Ajinkya Rahane has also spoken highly of Dhoni’s impact on his career. During his time with CSK in 2023, Rahane enjoyed a strong season and played an important role in the team’s IPL title-winning campaign.

MS Dhoni’s Leadership And Influence

It is worth noting that MS Dhoni is widely regarded as one of India’s most successful captains. Under his leadership, India won the 2007 T20 World Cup, the 2011 ODI World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy.

Along the way, he also played an important role in the development of several players, including Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja and R Ashwin.

Notably, Rahane’s revelation gives another glimpse into Dhoni’s leadership style. He was approachable when his door was open, yet he also made his boundaries clear.

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