“MS Dhoni’s Words Calmed My Nerves Before IPL Debut” – Rahul Tripathi on His Cricketing Journey

From IPL debut nerves to his international breakthrough, Rahul Tripathi reflects on MS Dhoni’s advice, his long wait for Team India, and the role of Abhishek Nayar in shaping his career.

Rahul Tripathi Reveals How MS Dhoni’s Advice Shaped His IPL Debut

New Delhi, March 6 – Indian cricketer Rahul Tripathi recently opened up about the game-changing advice he received from MS Dhoni ahead of his IPL debut in 2017, crediting the legendary captain for helping him stay calm under pressure.

Speaking on the House of Glory podcast, an initiative by the Gagan Narang Sports Foundation, Tripathi recalled how Dhoni’s words made all the difference before his first IPL match with the Rising Pune Supergiants.

“Two days before I was going to play my first match, I was observing him in the dressing room. He called me and told me not to try or think about anything extra and asked me to play the way I was playing while training. Given that this advice came from a cricketer of that stature, it gave me a lot of confidence. It really calmed my nerves,” Tripathi shared.

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A Long Wait for Team India: Tripathi’s Determination Paid Off

After years of grinding in domestic and IPL cricket, Tripathi finally earned his India cap in 2023, making his T20I debut against Sri Lanka at the age of 31.

The journey wasn’t easy, and Tripathi admitted there were times when the dream felt far away, but he never lost faith.

“I never gave up. At times, it was tough, and it felt like the dream to represent India was quite far away. But I decided to keep trying and always believed that one day I would get the opportunity I was waiting for. That belief was one of the reasons why I finally received the opportunity,” he said.

Fittingly, his debut happened at his home ground in Pune, making the occasion even more special.

“It was a very emotional moment. After traveling with the team for 6-7 years, I was finally able to make my T20I debut at the place where I have been playing cricket since childhood. I think it was all written,” Tripathi added.

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Abhishek Nayar: The Mentor Who Changed Everything

While Tripathi’s patience and hard work paved his way to success, he credited former cricketer and batting coach Abhishek Nayar as the most influential figure in his career.

“I think Abhishek Nayar has made the biggest and most important contribution in my journey. I consider him my elder brother. Meeting him was the turning point of my life,” he said.

Tripathi recalled his time at Kolkata Knight Riders, where he worked closely with Nayar and Dinesh Karthik, a phase that helped him mature as a player.

“We played together in BPCL for a year, but when I joined KKR, it was a different experience with Dinesh Karthik also being there. I really enjoyed my time there. I call him Abhi Dada, and I feel it’s because of his contribution that I was able to fulfill my dream of playing for India,” he added.

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A Testament to Hard Work & Resilience

Rahul Tripathi’s journey from an IPL hopeful to an India cricketer is a testament to patience, perseverance, and mentorship.

• MS Dhoni’s words calmed his nerves before his IPL debut
• He battled years of uncertainty before making his India debut in 2023
• Abhishek Nayar played a crucial role in shaping his career

With his positive mindset and hunger to succeed, Tripathi continues to be a promising force in Indian cricket, proving that dreams come true for those who never stop believing.

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Tags: Rahul Tripathi, MS Dhoni, IPL 2017, Rising Pune Supergiants, Indian Cricket Team, T20I Debut, House of Glory Podcast, Abhishek Nayar, Kolkata Knight Riders, IPL 2025