Harleen Deol Recalls Inspiring MS Dhoni Chat During Injury Layoff

Indian women’s cricketer Harleen Deol recently shared a heartwarming and motivational experience she had with former India captain MS Dhoni during a challenging period of her career. The 27-year-old suffered a knee injury while playing for the Gujarat Giants in the Women’s Premier League, sidelining her for six months.

During this injury layoff, Harleen got a chance to meet her idol, Dhoni, in Ranchi. She recounted that the legendary cricketer personally reached out to check on her recovery and offered words of encouragement that she still cherishes today.

“I got injured around the time he was in Ranchi. Everyone wanted to meet him, and when he heard about my injury, he reached out himself. He called me, and we ended up having a long, meaningful chat,” Harleen said in a video on ICC.

She added, “It was incredible — especially at a time when things weren’t going well for me. He gave me so much motivation that day, and it was truly special.”

After meeting Dhoni, Harleen expressed her admiration on social media, calling the former India captain her idol not only as a player but also as a person.

“The moment which felt surreal. Cherishing every minute spent with my idol. It’s already cold in India but this my #captaincool moment. Have idolised you as a player but after meeting you I am gonna idolise you as a person as well. Still can’t believe, I really met you,” she wrote.

Harleen Deol in Form for Women’s World Cup 2025

Harleen has returned to form in the ODI Women’s World Cup 2025, scoring 94 runs in two matches at an average of 47.00. Her highest score so far is 48.

• Against Pakistan, she played a composed 46 off 65 balls, including four boundaries and a six, helping India post 247 on a slow pitch.

• Against Sri Lanka, she scored 48, contributing to India’s total of 269/8.

Harleen will be eager to continue her good form as India face South Africa, led by Laura Wolvaardt, on Thursday, October 9, at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam.

Her inspiring interaction with MS Dhoni not only boosted her confidence but also highlights the positive influence that veteran players can have on young athletes during difficult periods.