As MS Dhoni celebrates his 42nd birthday, cricket fans around the world are reminiscing about his incredible career. The former Indian captain and wicket-keeper extraordinaire is widely regarded as one of the greatest finishers the game has seen. With over 10,000 ODI runs at an average of over 50, Dhoni’s batting skills have left an indelible mark on the world of cricket.
Here are five of his most iconic knocks that showcase his incredible talent:
224 vs Australia, First Test in 2013
MS Dhoni’s highest test score, 224, came against Australia in 2013. When India were trailing by 380 runs, MS Dhoni joined forces with Virat Kohli to add a vital 128 runs for the fifth wicket. His aggressive batting style put pressure on the Australian bowlers, as he smashed 24 boundaries and six sixes. This knock helped India take a 198-run lead in the first innings and eventually win the match.
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134 vs England, Second ODI in 2017
One of Dhoni’s most memorable ODI centuries came against England in 2017. When India were struggling at 25/3, Dhoni joined Yuvraj Singh at the crease and formed a partnership that saw them add a massive 256 runs for the fourth wicket. He scored an unbeaten 134 off 122, including six sixes and ten fours, as India posted a total of 381/6. India went on to win the game by 15 runs.
183* vs Sri Lanka, Third ODI in 2005
Dhoni’s highest ODI score of 183* came against Sri Lanka in Jaipur in 2005. Batting first, Sri Lanka posted a challenging total of 298/4. Dhoni was promoted to No. 3 and took charge of the chase, finishing unbeaten on 183 off 145 with ten sixes and fifteen fours. India reached the target of 303/4 in just 46.1 overs and won the match.
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113* vs Pakistan, First ODI in 2012
Dhoni became the first player in ODI history to score two centuries at No.7 when he scored an unbeaten 113 against Pakistan in Chennai in 2012. He added crucial runs with Suresh Raina (43) and Ravi Ashwin (31*) to help India reach a respectable total of 227/6.
91* vs Sri Lanka, 2011 World Cup Final
MS Dhoni led India to their second ODI World Cup win in 2011 with a six in the final against Sri Lanka at Wankhede Stadium. Chasing a target of 285, Dhoni promoted himself ahead of Yuvraj Singh and Suresh Raina and added an unbeaten 109 with Gautam Gambhir (97). His knock of 91 off 79 included eight fours and two sixes as India reached the target with two balls to spare.
These five knocks exemplify MS Dhoni’s incredible ability to rise to the occasion and take control of the game. As we celebrate his birthday today, it’s a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the greatest cricketers of all time.