‘Mahendra Singh Dhoni can complete graduation now’

Mumbai: Dharam Raj Singh – one-time principal of former India Test skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s school (DAV, Shyamali) – advised his ex-pupil to help students in the field of education.

“Dhoni was a student of my school. I am aware he did not complete his graduation and only passed the 12^th class, but he can help the boys focus on education. He is matured and fluent in English and can enter into the academic radar,” he said.

The cricketer had failed in first year of his graduation. His name was put up on the notice board of St Xavier’s College. He got admitted under sports quota and hence, was exempted from attending classes due to his cricketing commitments.

"Now being free from Test burden, Dhoni can certainly devote more time and concentrate on his studies. I think he has not finished his graduation but can complete it now", the ex-principal added.

Dhoni's retirement decision from Test cricket did surprise Singh. "I came to know about his sudden decision through papers this morning. Yes, this strange decision did surprise me but happy that he is still to continue to play the ODIs, and T20s", he added.

"There is lot of politics in the game. Dhoni is being often criticised and this may be one of the reasons for him to decide the quit the game. I have also heard that he is planning to start a cricket academy in Ranchi soon,” said Singh.

Singh also recalled an incident which reflects Dhoni’s love for his teachers.

“The last time he visited us was in 2005 and showed us the pen that was gifted to him by his commerce teacher in 1999. He still preserved the pen and has been using it for all writing work,” added Singh.