MS Dhoni names differentiating factor between India's 2011 and 2023 World Cup teams

India have been undefeated in the ongoing ICC World Cup 2023, winning all 5 of their games thus far.

Former Indian captain MS Dhoni discussed a key distinction between the team that won the 2011 ODI World Cup and the side led by Rohit Sharma, which is looking to repeat that feat in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.

Under the leadership of Dhoni, perhaps the most decorated captain in Indian cricket history, India last won an ODI World Cup twelve years ago. Twelve years later, "Men in Blue" are looking to replicate the success as they remain unbeaten in the ongoing World Cup.

Dhoni was asked about the difference between these two teams during an event on Thursday, and he cited one aspect that distinguishes both teams - the mentality of winning the trophy for Sachin Tendulkar.

"There's a big difference between the two teams. That team (the 2011 World Cup-winning Indian side) was a lot more united. They wanted to win the World Cup for Sachin Tendulkar. He commanded a lot of respect from others. I am not sure about this team. Don't know who all wants to win the World Cup for Virat Kohli. But, they want to win for India for sure. This is a big difference," Dhoni said.

This was Sachin Tendulkar’s only ODI World Cup win in six attempts and Tendulkar retired from the game in 2013.

“Team's balance is extremely good”: MS Dhoni on 2023 ODI World Cup India squad

MS Dhoni was further asked to speak about how the Indian squad for the 2023 World Cup shaped up and he felt that the team was extremely well-balanced.

"It's a very good team. Bohot accha balance hai team ka. Harlog acha khel rahe hain (The team's balance is extremely good. All the players are playing well). So everything is looking very good. Isse zyada main kuch nahi bolunga, baaki samajhdaar ko ishara kaafi hai (I won't say anything more than this. For the wise, the signal is enough)," Dhoni added.

Despite his retirement from international cricket, the renowned wicket-keeper-batsman continues to lead the Indian Premier League (IPL) side Chennai Super Kings (CSK). He recently led Chennai Super Kings to their fifth IPL title.