SPORTING contests are often termed as war minus shooting. All the pulls, pressures, mindgames, and tactics that form an integral part of a soldier’s life find a striking similarity in a sportsman’s career too, albeit only on the field. The difference is -- sporting contests produce a winner or a loser who can restart another bout the next day while armed conflicts do not leave a room for another reset.

 

Lt Col Mahendra Singh Dhoni is set to experience this tenuous difference when he begins his patrolling, guard and post duty for 106 Territorial Army battalion (para) in Kashmir Valley. From July 31 to August 15, the World Cup winning Indian captain will be serving his battalion, a request that has been approved by the Army headquarters. The stint is sure to add a welcome gravitas to Dhoni’s life. His love for the Armed Forces is well-documented. His decision to serve the battalion is capping the honour of the rank bestowed upon him by the Army.

 

Dhoni’s response to the call of duty will also set a great example for youngsters to take up a career in military and serve the nation.