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PBKS Pacer Credits Kohli, Dhoni Mentorship During IPL Career Struggles

Indian pace bowler Yash Thakur has disclosed guidance from cricket icons Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni that helped him navigate challenging periods in his Indian Premier League career. The emerging fast bowler's candid remarks underscore the role of senior players in supporting younger talent within franchise cricket.

LSN India · 29 August 2026

Yash Thakur, the pace bowler featuring for Punjab Kings in the IPL, recently opened up about the invaluable counsel he received from batting heavyweights Virat Kohli and former India captain MS Dhoni during a testing phase in his tournament journey.

Thakur's revelation highlights the informal mentorship networks that operate within IPL franchises, where established players frequently provide guidance to emerging cricketers facing form struggles or confidence issues. The pacer's acknowledgment of support from two of Indian cricket's most decorated figures underscores the competitive yet collaborative environment fostered within the T20 league.

Such interactions between seasoned international performers and rising talent have become increasingly common in the IPL ecosystem, contributing to the development pipeline for Indian cricket. Thakur's experience reflects a broader pattern where younger players benefit from the strategic insights and psychological support offered by their celebrated peers during critical phases of their careers.

The 24-year-old pacer's journey exemplifies the challenges young fast bowlers encounter in adapting to IPL's high-pressure environment, where consistency and mental resilience prove as critical as raw bowling ability. Guidance from established players like Kohli and Dhoni, who have navigated similar pressures across multiple seasons, often provides the perspective needed to overcome temporary setbacks and sustain performance levels.