Olympic medals will come if kids are encouraged to play outdoor, believes MS Dhoni

The India limited overs captain believes that the youth of the country must leave their couch, for the country to become better at sports.

New Delhi:

India limited overs cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni day said that Olympic medals will remain elusive for the country until the couch loving youth turn to outdoor sport.

“We have to throw the kids out of the house to play sport. It will not only help them stay active but also help them in their academics,” said Dhoni at the announcement of the a tie up between Seven, a lifestyle brand named after him, and Jabong.

“We often say we don’t win medals at Olympics. But we don’t realise how many of our youth is playing outdoor sport. A lot of the kids are hooked to electronic gadgets. So my suggestion to all the parents is throw your children out of the house. Let them play in the heat. Let them find their own way,” he said.

Dhoni flew in to New Delhi from Spain, where he was part of another promotional event.

The 35-year-old, who now only plays ODIs and T20s, has a long break from international cricket with India hosting England for a five-match Test series till December 20.

Before the limited overs series against England begins on January 15, Dhoni will be seen in action during domestic one-day tournament.