Lucknow Super Giants batter Mukul Choudhary has credited MS Dhoni as a major source of inspiration after a match-winning display against Kolkata Knight Riders in the ongoing Indian Premier League. Speaking after the game, the finisher talked about how he studies Dhoni’s finishing instincts and leadership, especially the moments that defined India’s run in the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup.
At a glance
- Mukul Choudhary praised MS Dhoni as his biggest inspiration, particularly because he is also a finisher.
- Choudhary highlighted Dhoni’s iconic “helicopter shot” as his favourite.
- He pointed to Dhoni’s leadership during the 2011 Cricket World Cup as a key influence.
- Against Kolkata Knight Riders, Choudhary made 54 off 27 balls with seven sixes and two fours.
- Lucknow Super Giants won by three wickets in a final-ball thriller.
- Choudhary and Avesh Khan put together an unbeaten 54-run stand for the 8th wicket or lower in a successful chase.
- Choudhary contributed 52 of those runs, while Avesh finished with 1* off 3 balls.
Choudhary said he always looks up to Dhoni because of their shared role in closing matches. He also referenced Dhoni’s helicopter shot and the way the former captain steered India during the 2011 World Cup, adding that he wants to replicate that finishing and guidance to help his side land crucial wins.
On the field, Choudhary delivered one of the standout finishers’ performances of IPL 2026. He played a decisive part in Lucknow’s impressive chase, steering LSG to a three-wicket victory over KKR in a tense match that went down to the last ball.
Choudhary struck 54 runs off just 27 deliveries, smashing seven sixes and two fours. The explosive innings swung momentum in Lucknow’s favour and provided the platform for a late surge, turning the chase into a nail-biting finish.
The most important partnership came with Avesh Khan, as the pair stitched together a vital 50-run stand. Choudhary and Avesh remained unbeaten for the duration, adding 54 runs together—an unbeaten stand that also marked the top score for the 8th wicket or lower in a successful IPL chase.
In a standout split of responsibilities, Choudhary scored 52 of the 54 runs in the partnership. Avesh Khan supported from the other end with 1* off 3 balls, ensuring the target was kept within reach until the final moment.
