The cricket team of Jharkhand added a new chapter in the history of Indian cricket by winning the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT 2025) final, defeating Haryana. While Ishan Kishan, star Indian cricketer and the captain of the Jharkhand cricket team, remains at the centre of celebration, there are multiple unsung heroes who rewired the team. It was a collective effort of the team and also the office bearers.

Shahbaz Nadeem, joint secretary at the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA), reveals how former India skipper and Jharkhand's own MS Dhoni helped the team to shape a look and a polished mind-set. In a recent interview, Nadeem reveals that Dhoni was hugely involved from the outside throughout the process. Nadeem said that Dhoni had been helping them since the team was in the form of a burgeon. The former captain left his impression even during the selection of coaches.

"When we started this season and were selecting the coaches, Dhoni was very much involved in the process. "His input was always important..." Nadeem said.

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"I remember Dhoni telling me that instead of looking for fancy, high-end coaches, our desi coaches should be preferred, because they understand the sentiments of our players, their feelings, and hence, communication will be better."

MS Dhoni helped Ishan Kishan's Jharkhand to win SMAT 2025 with his inputs

Dhoni was in touch with the players as well. whether it was the women’s team or men’s or age-group teams of Jharkhand. He also interacted with the players and with the teams personally to share priceless inputs.

"He was talking to all the players, in every format – whether it was the women’s team or men’s, Under-19 or senior, or U-23. He was involved in everything. And he gave his input. He also had individual sessions with a lot of players, along with the team. He has given at least a couple of hours for each team." Nadeem added.

Former Indian cricketer Shahbaz Nadeem has bid farewell to his illustrious 20-year career in Indian cricket, retiring from all formats of the game. The left-arm spinner expressed his desire to explore opportunities in various domestic leagues worldwide following his exit from the Indian cricket scene.

“After much contemplation, I’ve decided to retire from all three formats of the game. While I’ve always strived to stay motivated and perform at my best, I realize that my chances in the Indian team are slim. It’s only fair that I pave the way for younger talent,” Nadeem shared with ESPNcricinfo.

End of an Era: Shahbaz Nadeem Bids Adieu to Indian Cricket

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He also took to social media to formally announce his retirement. Nadeem’s last appearance in competitive cricket was during Jharkhand’s Ranji Trophy 2024 clash against Rajasthan in Jamshedpur, where he showcased his prowess with both bat and ball.

Throughout his career, Nadeem accumulated impressive statistics, claiming 542 wickets in first-class cricket, 175 in List A matches, and 125 in T20s. His notable performances include 32 five-wicket hauls, 33 four-wicket hauls, and 7 ten-wicket hauls.

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Nadeem’s journey in international cricket began in 2019 when he received his Test cap from Virat Kohli during India’s match against South Africa at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi. Despite playing only two Tests, he managed to secure eight wickets.

Additionally, Nadeem showcased his talent in the Indian Premier League (IPL), representing teams such as Delhi Daredevils (now Capitals), Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Lucknow Super Giants, amassing 48 wickets across 72 matches with an economy rate of 7.56.