On the eve of the 2025 Champions Trophy, former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin recalled his captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s brilliance from behind the stumps. Former India captain MS Dhoni has always been known for his sharp cricketing brain, chirping instructions to his fellow bowlers. One such moment of brilliance came during the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy final against England in Edgbaston. Off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin recently shared an interesting insight into how Dhoni’s advice played a key role in India’s triumph. The final, shortened to 20 overs per side due to rain, saw India setting a modest target of 130. England seemed in control at 27/1 after five overs, putting pressure on the Indian bowlers. At this crucial juncture, Dhoni made a tactical decision that changed the course of the match. He handed the ball to Ashwin for the last over of the powerplay and advised him to bowl from around the wicket instead of over the stumps to England’s Jonathan Trott. Ashwin recalled Dhoni’s words vividly. "I still remember Mahi bhai came up to me and said, ‘Don’t bowl over the stumps to Trott; bowl from around the wicket. He’ll try to play on the leg side, and if the ball spins, he’ll get stumped.’ I still can’t believe how he predicted that.” Trusting his captain’s instinct, Ashwin bowled exactly as instructed. The ball spun down the leg side, luring Trott out of his crease. Dhoni, as sharp as ever behind the stumps, completed the stumping in a flash. The dismissal gave India a crucial breakthrough and turned the momentum in their favor. Read also: MS Dhoni and Harbhajan Singh Reuniting at a Party, Sparking Nostalgia Dhoni’s Trust in Ashwin Paid Off England continued to struggle against India’s disciplined bowling attack. Despite having a strong lineup, they fell short, managing only 124/8 in their 20 overs. India clinched a thrilling five-run victory, securing their second Champions Trophy title. Cricket experts lauded Dhoni’s tactical brilliance. Former cricketer Aakash Chopra highlighted how Dhoni’s faith in Ashwin was exceptional. "This was his tournament through and through. Throwing the ball to a spinner in the 20th over was a huge gamble, but Dhoni trusted Ashwin’s skill and mental strength." India’s Champions Trophy success in 2013 remains a testament to Dhoni’s leadership and cricketing mind. Though India reached the final again in 2017, they suffered a heavy defeat against Pakistan. The next edition of the Champions Trophy begins on February 19, 2025, with hosts Pakistan facing New Zealand in the opening match.