Indian umpire Anil Choudhary recently shared his insights on the remarkable reviewing skills of legendary cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni, often hailed as one of the greatest for his sharp judgment behind the stumps. During an engaging conversation on the 2 Sloggers podcast, Choudhary touched upon the popular joke that the Decision Review System (DRS) is frequently referred to as the ‘Dhoni Review System’ by fans and experts alike.
Choudhary, who has observed Dhoni’s cricketing prowess from the closest quarters, emphasized the former Indian captain’s exceptional ability to make accurate calls. He stated, “He is very accurate, almost close to accurate,” highlighting Dhoni’s instinctive and cricketing brilliance that sets him apart. The veteran umpire acknowledged that while Dhoni’s decisions are not infallible, they are rarely off the mark, contributing to his aura on the field.
Choudhary further explained the unique challenges a wicket-keeper faces when making DRS review calls. “Sometimes what happens is that the keeper stays behind, even he can’t see the position of the bowler. That’s a different thing. But he is very reasonable,” Choudhary added, shedding light on the complexity of a keeper’s role during high-pressure moments.
Dhoni’s remarkable accuracy with DRS calls has led to numerous match-defining decisions in favor of India and his Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK). As Dhoni’s legacy continues to inspire, the term “Dhoni Review System” seems less of a joke and more of a fitting tribute to a player who revolutionized the way the game is played and analyzed.
