How 'Captain Cool' MS Dhoni helped D Gukesh become World chess champion

How MS Dhoni's skills helped D Gukesh become World chess champion. (Photo: Instagram)

World chess champion D Gukesh has disclosed how cricket legend MS Dhoni has influenced his strategy for managing pressure. Last year, at the age of 18, Gukesh became the youngest world chess champion. Now, the Grandmaster has talked about how the former Indian captain makes him feel inspired.

In an interview with the YouTube channel of CSK, Gukesh said, "MS Dhoni is one sportsperson I really admire. To this day, he is the one. How he doesn't react to anything that happens. How he is able to calmly think in any situation. In the highest-pressure moments, he is able to think with a clear mind. I grew up watching that. It felt like I had to emulate it in my own craft," he said.

"In that sense, he really inspired me. I don't react to things much. I am good at handling pressure. In that way, he has really helped me in my career. Not only as an inspiration but in my game as well," he added.

Gukesh showed incredible tenacity against China's Ding Liren, the current champion, at the FIDE World Championship last year.

Gukesh recalled how his approach to chess has changed as a result of witnessing Dhoni manage pressure and lead his team on the field.

Even during the most stressful parts of a game, Gukesh is now unflappable. Dhoni's trademark composure on the cricket pitch is reflected in his ability to remain composed throughout the 64 squares.

The Chennai boy, who is an avid sports enthusiast, chose the 2011 World Cup final-winning six as his favorite memory of MS Dhoni's career.

"For any Indian, the final six in the 2011 World Cup final-that moment is always in my mind. Nothing can compete with that," he said.