MSD Hookah Row: Ex-PBKS Star Drops Bombshell!

The Dhoni-hookah controversy has resurfaced. Former India cricketer Manoj Tiwary recently spoke about the so-called “hookah gang” that existed in the Indian team during MS Dhoni’s captaincy. A five-year-old video of Irfan Pathan had already hinted at these sessions.

Players Tried to Stay in Dhoni’s Good Books

Tiwary claimed that some players would attend these hookah sessions to remain in Dhoni’s good books and secure a place in the playing XI. He said that participation was voluntary, but those in Dhoni’s inner circle usually joined.

Tiwary Opens Up in Interview

Speaking to InsideSport, Manoj Tiwary said, “We’ve seen from close quarters. There were sessions where hookah was taken and there were players who were close to the captain. Some were smart enough to butter him a little to get help from him.”

He added that only select players were invited to these gatherings, mostly those close to Dhoni.

Irfan Pathan Had Also Commented

Irfan Pathan had earlier hinted at such gatherings. He said, “I don’t have a habit of setting up a hookah in someone’s room or talking about this. Everyone knows. Sometimes it’s better not to speak. A cricketer’s job is to perform on the field and that’s what I focused on.”

This shows that while some players were involved, many others preferred to stay focused on cricket.

A Rare Glimpse into Team Dynamics

These revelations offer fans a rare glimpse into the off-field life during Dhoni’s captaincy. Personal connections and inner circles may have influenced team dynamics more than fans realised.

Dhoni’s Legacy Still Intact

While these stories raise questions about off-field behaviour, they do not affect Dhoni’s legacy as one of India’s most successful captains. His leadership on the field remains legendary.

Manoj Tiwary’s recent remarks have brought the hookah controversy back into public debate. It serves as a reminder that beyond talent, personal relationships may also shape a player’s journey in team sports.