Cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni's 5-year-old daughter has been receiving rape threats after CSK lost a match to KKR. Palki Sharma Upadhyay asks- Why is our society so misogynistic?

Gravitas: Dhoni's daughter gets rape threats

<p style="margin:0in 0in 8pt">With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the sporting calendar has been left in doldrums. While all the major tournaments and sporting events have been either cancelled or postponed, all eyes are on the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which has been suspended until April 15. Former India captain and one of the finest wicket-keepers, MS Dhoni was supposed to make his comeback to the cricket field in the cash-rich tournament but the suspension and the current situation surrounding the COVID-19 has shredded everything into pieces.&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 8pt">Former India opener and recently-retired, Wasim Jaffer reckons that if Dhoni is fit and firing then Team India can’t ignore the veteran gloveman as the domestic legend said that Dhoni will be an asset behind the stumps and can also bat lower down the order. Jaffer further said that Dhoni’s presence will take the pressure off from KL Rahul and the Men in Blue can even try in Rishabh Pant in the playing XI in case they want to have a left-handed batsman in the playing combination.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 8pt">“If Dhoni is fit and in form I think we can't look beyond him as he'll be an asset behind the stumps and also lower down the order. It'll take the pressure of keeping off Rahul and India can play Pant as a batsman too if they want a lefty. #Dhoni #MSDhoni #IPL2020,” Jaffer tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If Dhoni is fit and in form I think we can't look beyond him as he'll be an asset behind the stumps and also lower down the order. It'll take the pressure of keeping off Rahul and India can play Pant as a batsman too if they want a lefty. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/6ndDfdhkap">pic.twitter.com/6ndDfdhkap</a></p>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1240165242140672000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>However, with the IPL 2020 getting suspended with its future under dark clouds, it remains to be seen if Dhoni can make his highly-anticipated return to the cricket field in time. While BCCI remains optimistic of conducting the cash-rich tournament after April 15, the situation surrounding the COVID-19 has been growing worse with each passing day.&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 8pt">Dhoni last played for Team India in the semi-final of the ICC World Cup 2019 where the Men in Blue suffered a crushing defeat to New Zealand. Since then, Dhoni has been on a self-imposed sabbatical from the gentlemen’s game.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the sporting calendar has been left in doldrums. While all the major tournaments and sporting events have been either cancelled or postponed, all eyes are on the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which has been suspended until April 15.

With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the sporting calendar has been left in doldrums. While all the major tournaments and sporting events have been either cancelled or postponed, all eyes are on the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which has been suspended until April 15. Former India captain and one of the finest wicket-keepers, MS Dhoni was supposed to make his comeback to the cricket field in the cash-rich tournament but the suspension and the current situation surrounding the COVID-19 has shredded everything into pieces. Former India opener and recently-retired, Wasim Jaffer reckons that if Dhoni is fit and firing then Team India can’t ignore the veteran gloveman as the domestic legend said that Dhoni will be an asset behind the stumps and can also bat lower down the order. Jaffer further said that Dhoni’s presence will take the pressure off from KL Rahul and the Men in Blue can even try in Rishabh Pant in the playing XI in case they want to have a left-handed batsman in the playing combination. “If Dhoni is fit and in form I think we can't look beyond him as he'll be an asset behind the stumps and also lower down the order. It'll take the pressure of keeping off Rahul and India can play Pant as a batsman too if they want a lefty. #Dhoni #MSDhoni #IPL2020,” Jaffer tweeted. If Dhoni is fit and in form I think we can't look beyond him as he'll be an asset behind the stumps and also lower down the order. It'll take the pressure of keeping off Rahul and India can play Pant as a batsman too if they want a lefty. #Dhoni #MSDhoni #IPL2020 pic.twitter.com/6ndDfdhkap — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) March 18, 2020 × However, with the IPL 2020 getting suspended with its future under dark clouds, it remains to be seen if Dhoni can make his highly-anticipated return to the cricket field in time. While BCCI remains optimistic of conducting the cash-rich tournament after April 15, the situation surrounding the COVID-19 has been growing worse with each passing day. Dhoni last played for Team India in the semi-final of the ICC World Cup 2019 where the Men in Blue suffered a crushing defeat to New Zealand. Since then, Dhoni has been on a self-imposed sabbatical from the gentlemen’s game.

Team India can't look beyond MS Dhoni if he is fit and firing: Wasim Jaffer

<p>Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni gets a grand reception at Chennai ahead of Indian Premier League.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-mahendra-singh-dhoni-trains-with-csk-for-clash-against-mumbai-indians-on-march-2-282699">IPL 2020: Mahendra Singh Dhoni trains with CSK for clash against Mumbai Indians on March 2</a></p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni landed in Chennai to train for the upcoming IPL 2020. CSK's official twitter handle tweeted about this:&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Every goose shall bump with First Day First Show feels! Just <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StartTheWhistles?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StartTheWhistles</a>! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HomeSweetDen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HomeSweetDen</a> 🦁💛 <a href="https://t.co/DpQBIqahZe">pic.twitter.com/DpQBIqahZe</a></p>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1234247590016737281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to the reports, CEO Kashi Vishwanath has said that CSK training camps will begin after March 19.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl/ipl-2020-chennai-super-kings-csk-squad-schedule-and-players-to-watch-out-for-283228">IPL 2020: Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) squad, schedule and players to watch out for!</a></p>

<p>MS Dhoni will finally return t the ground after a long gap, the last time MS Dhoni played a match was against New Zealand in the semifinals of the 2019 World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni was criticised for his slow batting during the tournament. Earlier this year, Dhoni was not enlisted in the BCCI's central contract players' list.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 38-year-old will lead the Super Kings this year, the first match will be between previous edition's finalists, Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni had commenced training with the Jharkhand team some time back, and would also look to get into the groove as he has been away from the game for a while now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Practice sessions of the Super Kings’ team never failed to attract crowds in thousands in the past, and with Dhoni set for early arrival for preparation similar numbers can be expected this time around as well.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni gets a grand reception at Chennai ahead of Indian Premier League. Also read: IPL 2020: Mahendra Singh Dhoni trains with CSK for clash against Mumbai Indians on March 2 Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni landed in Chennai to train for the upcoming IPL 2020.

Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni gets a grand reception at Chennai ahead of Indian Premier League. Also read: IPL 2020: Mahendra Singh Dhoni trains with CSK for clash against Mumbai Indians on March 2 Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni landed in Chennai to train for the upcoming IPL 2020. CSK's official twitter handle tweeted about this: Every goose shall bump with First Day First Show feels! Just #StartTheWhistles! #HomeSweetDen 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/DpQBIqahZe — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 1, 2020 × According to the reports, CEO Kashi Vishwanath has said that CSK training camps will begin after March 19. Also read: IPL 2020: Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) squad, schedule and players to watch out for! MS Dhoni will finally return t the ground after a long gap, the last time MS Dhoni played a match was against New Zealand in the semifinals of the 2019 World Cup. Dhoni was criticised for his slow batting during the tournament. Earlier this year, Dhoni was not enlisted in the BCCI's central contract players' list. The 38-year-old will lead the Super Kings this year, the first match will be between previous edition's finalists, Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians. Dhoni had commenced training with the Jharkhand team some time back, and would also look to get into the groove as he has been away from the game for a while now. Practice sessions of the Super Kings’ team never failed to attract crowds in thousands in the past, and with Dhoni set for early arrival for preparation similar numbers can be expected this time around as well.

IPL 2020: Dhoni receives grand welcome at Chennai ahead of practice session

<p>Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni credited his Indian Premier League team Chennai Super Kings for becoming a better human being and a cricketer.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl/ipl-2020-thala-ms-dhoni-greets-chinna-tala-suresh-raina-ahead-of-csk-training-session-283964">IPL 2020: 'Thala' MS Dhoni greets 'Chinna Tala' Suresh Raina ahead of CSK training session</a></p>

<p>During a TV interview, Dhoni said: "This journey started in 2008, CSK has helped me improve in everything whether it was being a human being or being a cricketer, handling situations that are tough both in and out of the field and how to be humble once you are doing well."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl/ipl-2020-dhoni-receives-grand-welcome-at-chennai-ahead-of-practice-session-283661">IPL 2020: Dhoni receives grand welcome at Chennai ahead of practice session</a></p>

<p>Dhoni&nbsp;went on to add that people in the South don't call him by his name but address him as "Thala" which means brother.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl/ipl-2020-chennai-super-kings-csk-squad-schedule-and-players-to-watch-out-for-283228">IPL 2020: Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) squad, schedule and players to watch out for!</a></p>

<p>"-Thala- basically means brother, so for me, it's more the abstract of the fans, the love and affection towards me is the reflection of that. Whenever I am in Chennai or down South they never call me by my name they address me as 'Thala' and the moment someone calls me Thala they are showing their love and respect but at the same time he is a CSK fan,".</p>

<p>MS Dhoni will finally make a blockbuster come back to the ground after a long gap, the last time MS Dhoni played a match was against New Zealand in the semifinals of the 2019 World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 38-year-old will lead the Super Kings this year, the first match will be between previous edition's finalists, Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians on March 29.&nbsp;</p>


Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni credited his Indian Premier League team Chennai Super Kings for becoming a better human being and a cricketer. Also read: IPL 2020: 'Thala' MS Dhoni greets 'Chinna Tala' Suresh Raina ahead of CSK training session During a TV interview, Dhoni said: "This journey started in 2008, CSK has helped me improve in everything whether it was being a human being or being a cricketer, handling situations that are tough both in and out of the field and how to be humble once you are doing well.

Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni credited his Indian Premier League team Chennai Super Kings for becoming a better human being and a cricketer. Also read: IPL 2020: 'Thala' MS Dhoni greets 'Chinna Tala' Suresh Raina ahead of CSK training session During a TV interview, Dhoni said: "This journey started in 2008, CSK has helped me improve in everything whether it was being a human being or being a cricketer, handling situations that are tough both in and out of the field and how to be humble once you are doing well." Also read: IPL 2020: Dhoni receives grand welcome at Chennai ahead of practice session Dhoni went on to add that people in the South don't call him by his name but address him as "Thala" which means brother. Also read: IPL 2020: Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) squad, schedule and players to watch out for! "-Thala- basically means brother, so for me, it's more the abstract of the fans, the love and affection towards me is the reflection of that. Whenever I am in Chennai or down South they never call me by my name they address me as 'Thala' and the moment someone calls me Thala they are showing their love and respect but at the same time he is a CSK fan,". MS Dhoni will finally make a blockbuster come back to the ground after a long gap, the last time MS Dhoni played a match was against New Zealand in the semifinals of the 2019 World Cup. The 38-year-old will lead the Super Kings this year, the first match will be between previous edition's finalists, Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians on March 29.

'CSK has helped me improve in everything': MS Dhoni credits his IPL team for his success

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidaGU6ZuGshLGj" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-absent-hardik-patel-back-in-indias-t20-squad-for-south-africa-series-246481" target="_blank">Mahendra Singh Dhoni</a>, captain of the Chennai Super Kings is reported to start his training from March 2 along with other players as the 13th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) closes in.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;38-year-old&nbsp;whose future as a&nbsp;sportsman in this game&nbsp;has been a subject of intense speculation since the ICC 50-over World Cup of 2019, is expected to begin preparing at the M A Chidambaram stadium for the upcoming IPL.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-drops-dhoni-in-central-contract-list-for-the-players-274648" target="_blank">BCCI drops Dhoni in central contract list for players</a></p>

<p>The opening match for IPL 2020 will put CSK against defending champion Mumbai Indians on the latter's home turf on March 29. CEO of the cricket team, KS Viswanathan stated that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ms-dhoni-sets-out-to-discharge-his-duties-as-lieutenant-colonel-in-territorial-army-239647" target="_blank">Dhoni</a> will be training&nbsp;with players who are available as the full preparatory camp of the team begins on March 19.</p>

<p>Practice sessions for the former India captain are expected to last for a couple of weeks with the likes of Suresh Raina and Ambati Rayudu among others. This is reported to provide&nbsp;the veteran stumper&nbsp;opportunities to bond with the new players in the CSK set-up.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dhoni-may-retire-from-odis-soon-ravi-shastri-273336" target="_blank">MS Dhoni may retire from ODIs soon: Ravi Shastri</a></p>

<p>Dhoni had commenced training with the Jharkhand team some time back, and would also look to get into the groove as he has been away from the game for a while now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Practice sessions of the Super Kings’ team never failed to attract crowds in thousands in the past, and with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ms-dhoni-not-to-be-part-of-wi-tour-to-join-parachute-regiment-for-2-months-237535" target="_blank">Dhoni </a>set for early arrival&nbsp;for preparation similar numbers can be expected this time around as well.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-should-be-going-without-being-pushed-out-says-sunil-gavaskar-250813" target="_blank">MS Dhoni should be going 'without being pushed out', says Sunil Gavaskar</a></p>

<p>The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/legendary-cricketer-like-ms-dhoni-knows-when-to-retire-says-msk-prasad-237485" target="_blank">three-time IPL champion</a>&nbsp;had picked up veteran leggie Piyush Chawla, Aussie pacer Josh Hazelwood, England all-rounder Sam Curran and Tamil Nadu left-arm spinner R Sai Kishore during the auction held in December of 2019.</p>


Mahendra Singh Dhoni, captain of the Chennai Super Kings is reported to start his training from March 2 along with other players as the 13th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) closes in.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, captain of the Chennai Super Kings is reported to start his training from March 2 along with other players as the 13th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) closes in. The 38-year-old whose future as a sportsman in this game has been a subject of intense speculation since the ICC 50-over World Cup of 2019, is expected to begin preparing at the M A Chidambaram stadium for the upcoming IPL. Also Read: BCCI drops Dhoni in central contract list for players The opening match for IPL 2020 will put CSK against defending champion Mumbai Indians on the latter's home turf on March 29. CEO of the cricket team, KS Viswanathan stated that Dhoni will be training with players who are available as the full preparatory camp of the team begins on March 19. Practice sessions for the former India captain are expected to last for a couple of weeks with the likes of Suresh Raina and Ambati Rayudu among others. This is reported to provide the veteran stumper opportunities to bond with the new players in the CSK set-up. Also Read: MS Dhoni may retire from ODIs soon: Ravi Shastri Dhoni had commenced training with the Jharkhand team some time back, and would also look to get into the groove as he has been away from the game for a while now. Practice sessions of the Super Kings’ team never failed to attract crowds in thousands in the past, and with Dhoni set for early arrival for preparation similar numbers can be expected this time around as well. Also Read: MS Dhoni should be going 'without being pushed out', says Sunil Gavaskar The three-time IPL champion had picked up veteran leggie Piyush Chawla, Aussie pacer Josh Hazelwood, England all-rounder Sam Curran and Tamil Nadu left-arm spinner R Sai Kishore during the auction held in December of 2019.

IPL 2020: Mahendra Singh Dhoni trains with CSK for clash against Mumbai Indians on March 2

<p>India's Board Control of Cricket in India(BCCI) today released the list of players in the annual player retainership of the year for the senior team. The list had renewed contracts for the players.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The BCCI announces the Annual Player Contracts for Team India (Senior Men) for the period from October 2019 to September 2020.<br />
<br />
Saini, Mayank, Shreyas, Washington and Deepak Chahar get annual player contracts.<br />
<br />
More details here - <a href="https://t.co/84iIn1vs9B">https://t.co/84iIn1vs9B</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/S6ZPq7FBt1">pic.twitter.com/S6ZPq7FBt1</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1217724563271774208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>India's World Cup-winning captain MS Dhoni,38,&nbsp;was dropped from the list. According to ANI sources, Dhoni was given a heads up before this decision.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sources: MS Dhoni was informed that he won't be given BCCI's central contact, before the decision was announced today. A player needs to play a minimum of three T20 matches in a particular season to be eligible for BCCI central contract. <a href="https://t.co/FHYfvA1PEc">pic.twitter.com/FHYfvA1PEc</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1217756983203221504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Captain cool"&nbsp;has not played for India since appearing for Team India in the World Cup semi-finals against New Zealand in England last summer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A few days ago coach Ravi Shastri had spilt&nbsp;the beans regarding Dhoni's future, saying that at his age he should focus on&nbsp;T20Is.&nbsp;He has retired from Test cricket.</p>

<p>Dhoni was in "A category" - players in this bracket earn Rs 5 crore.&nbsp;MS Dhoni has played 90 Tests, 350 ODIs, and &nbsp;98 T20I.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Skipper Virat Kohli, Indian vice-captain Rohit Sharma, and top spearhead pacer Jasprit Bumrah have been retained in the highest A+ bracket of Rs 7 crore. Among others, batsman K L Rahul has been promoted from B grade to A.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>BCCI's present List:&nbsp;</strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Grade A+ (7 crores)</strong>: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah.</p>

<p><strong>Grade A (5 crores):</strong> Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, K L Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant.</p>

<p><strong>Grade B (3 crores):</strong> Wriddhiman Saha, Umesh Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Hardik Pandya, Mayank Agarwal.</p>

<p><strong>Grade C (1 crore):</strong> Kedar Jadhav, Navdeep Saini, Deepak Chahar, Manish Pandey, Hanuma Vihari, Shardul Thakur, Shreyas Iyer, Washington Sundar.</p>


India's Board Control of Cricket in India(BCCI) today released the list of players in the annual player retainership of the year for the senior team. The list had renewed contracts for the players.

India's Board Control of Cricket in India(BCCI) today released the list of players in the annual player retainership of the year for the senior team. The list had renewed contracts for the players. The BCCI announces the Annual Player Contracts for Team India (Senior Men) for the period from October 2019 to September 2020. Saini, Mayank, Shreyas, Washington and Deepak Chahar get annual player contracts. More details here - https://t.co/84iIn1vs9B #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/S6ZPq7FBt1 — BCCI (@BCCI) January 16, 2020 × India's World Cup-winning captain MS Dhoni,38, was dropped from the list. According to ANI sources, Dhoni was given a heads up before this decision. Sources: MS Dhoni was informed that he won't be given BCCI's central contact, before the decision was announced today. A player needs to play a minimum of three T20 matches in a particular season to be eligible for BCCI central contract. pic.twitter.com/FHYfvA1PEc — ANI (@ANI) January 16, 2020 × "Captain cool" has not played for India since appearing for Team India in the World Cup semi-finals against New Zealand in England last summer. A few days ago coach Ravi Shastri had spilt the beans regarding Dhoni's future, saying that at his age he should focus on T20Is. He has retired from Test cricket. Dhoni was in "A category" - players in this bracket earn Rs 5 crore. MS Dhoni has played 90 Tests, 350 ODIs, and 98 T20I. Skipper Virat Kohli, Indian vice-captain Rohit Sharma, and top spearhead pacer Jasprit Bumrah have been retained in the highest A+ bracket of Rs 7 crore. Among others, batsman K L Rahul has been promoted from B grade to A. BCCI's present List: Grade A+ (7 crores): Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah. Grade A (5 crores): Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, K L Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant. Grade B (3 crores): Wriddhiman Saha, Umesh Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Hardik Pandya, Mayank Agarwal. Grade C (1 crore): Kedar Jadhav, Navdeep Saini, Deepak Chahar, Manish Pandey, Hanuma Vihari, Shardul Thakur, Shreyas Iyer, Washington Sundar.

BCCI drops Dhoni in central contract list for players

<p>Indian cricket team coach Ravi Shastri revealed on Thursday that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../ms-dhoni-visits-team-india-at-jsca-stadium- complex-in-ranchi-257464">MS Dhoni</a> may soon end his prolific ODI career, but may still be keen on playing T20Is.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni, who was deemed as 'Captain Cool', has not donned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../india-vs-sri-lanka-2nd-t20i-india-thrash-sri- lanka-by-7-wickets-in-the-second-t20i-take-1-0-lead-272801">Indian team</a> Jersey since the semi-final defeat against New Zealand, where he was run out following a half-century. He went on to train with 106 TA Battalion (Para) in Jammu and Kashmir for two weeks and missed the West Indies Series.</p>

<p>"He has finished (playing) test match cricket. In all probability, he will finish one-day cricket. At his age I think, the only format he will want to play is T20," Shastri told a TV news channel.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/looking-forward-to-seeing-our-indian-fans-warner-ahead-of-odi-series-273103">Looking forward to seeing our Indian fans: David Warner ahead of ODI series</a></p>

<p>Dhoni is one of the most successful captains for the Indian team as he has led the Indian team to win every ICC trophy across the globe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ravi Shastri was looking forward to Dhoni's performance in the IPL that will help them set the tone on what Dhoni's future will look like.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If he feels, when he comes back, that something is not right, he will quit...But if he has a cracking IPL season then, you know..." said Shastri.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that it's the selector's job in the end, and if he plays well in IPL he would put himself into the contention.</p>

<p>MS Dhoni has had one of the best ODI careers as an individual, scoring 10 centuries and 73 half-centuries with an average of 50.6.</p>


Indian cricket team coach Ravi Shastri revealed on Thursday that MS Dhoni may soon end his prolific ODI career, but may still be keen on playing T20Is. Dhoni, who was deemed as 'Captain Cool', has not donned the Indian team Jersey since the semi-final defeat against New Zealand, where he was run out following a half-century.

Indian cricket team coach Ravi Shastri revealed on Thursday that MS Dhoni may soon end his prolific ODI career, but may still be keen on playing T20Is. Dhoni, who was deemed as 'Captain Cool', has not donned the Indian team Jersey since the semi-final defeat against New Zealand, where he was run out following a half-century. He went on to train with 106 TA Battalion (Para) in Jammu and Kashmir for two weeks and missed the West Indies Series. "He has finished (playing) test match cricket. In all probability, he will finish one-day cricket. At his age I think, the only format he will want to play is T20," Shastri told a TV news channel. Also Read: Looking forward to seeing our Indian fans: David Warner ahead of ODI series Dhoni is one of the most successful captains for the Indian team as he has led the Indian team to win every ICC trophy across the globe. Ravi Shastri was looking forward to Dhoni's performance in the IPL that will help them set the tone on what Dhoni's future will look like. "If he feels, when he comes back, that something is not right, he will quit...But if he has a cracking IPL season then, you know..." said Shastri. He added that it's the selector's job in the end, and if he plays well in IPL he would put himself into the contention. MS Dhoni has had one of the best ODI careers as an individual, scoring 10 centuries and 73 half-centuries with an average of 50.6.

MS Dhoni may retire from ODIs soon: Ravi Shastri

<p>The time has come for India's long-serving wicketkeeper-batsman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-always-thinks-about-indian-cricket-says-virat-kohli-249623">Mahendra Singh Dhoni</a> to bow out of international cricket - and he should go before he's pushed, batting great Sunil Gavaskar said.</p>

<p>Former captain Dhoni has been the subject of intense speculation among fans, ex-players and pundits over when he will retire from international cricket since India's semi-final exit from the World Cup.</p>

<p>The veteran of 350 one-dayers, who quit playing Tests at the end of 2014, has not provided any hint of what his plans are.</p>

<p>However, he made himself unavailable for India's tour of the West Indies and instead opted to spend 15 days with India's territorial army, a reservist force that draws on civilians who can do short stints to assist the military.</p>

<p>Dhoni was also a notable omission from India's Twenty20 squad for the ongoing three-match series against South Africa.</p>

<p>"Nobody knows what's in MSD's mind. Only he can clarify what he thinks his future with Indian cricket is," former India captain and opening batsman Gavaskar told India Today.</p>

<p>"But he's now 38, by the time the next T20 World Cup comes he will be over 39 years old. I think India should be looking ahead."</p>

<p>Dhoni captained India to the World Twenty20 crown in 2007, and the 50-over World Cup title at home four years later, and enjoys cult status in the cricket-mad country.</p>

<p>At his prime Dhoni was widely considered the best "finisher" in the game but his electrifying ability to put bowlers to the sword to the end of innings has waned of late, while he has also struggled to make solid starts. Dhoni's glovework, however, still remains top class.</p>

<p>The next 50-over World Cup is still four years away but the World Twenty20 will be held in 2020 and Dhoni enjoys unwavering support from India captain Virat Kohli who has publicly backed him on numerous occasions.</p>

<p>"His value to the side is always going to be fantastic. It's not just the runs he will score or the catches and the stumpings he will effect," said Gavaskar, who once held the record for most Test runs and centuries in the longest format of the game.</p>

<p>"His overall presence is so calming on the field, it's fantastic for the captain because the captain gets the benefit of his views. So that's a huge plus.</p>

<p>"But I think the time has come. Everybody has a shelf life," he added. "He should be going without being pushed out. He should be going on his own terms."</p>


The time has come for India's long-serving wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni to bow out of international cricket - and he should go before he's pushed, batting great Sunil Gavaskar said.

The time has come for India's long-serving wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni to bow out of international cricket - and he should go before he's pushed, batting great Sunil Gavaskar said. Former captain Dhoni has been the subject of intense speculation among fans, ex-players and pundits over when he will retire from international cricket since India's semi-final exit from the World Cup. The veteran of 350 one-dayers, who quit playing Tests at the end of 2014, has not provided any hint of what his plans are. However, he made himself unavailable for India's tour of the West Indies and instead opted to spend 15 days with India's territorial army, a reservist force that draws on civilians who can do short stints to assist the military. Dhoni was also a notable omission from India's Twenty20 squad for the ongoing three-match series against South Africa. "Nobody knows what's in MSD's mind. Only he can clarify what he thinks his future with Indian cricket is," former India captain and opening batsman Gavaskar told India Today. "But he's now 38, by the time the next T20 World Cup comes he will be over 39 years old. I think India should be looking ahead." Dhoni captained India to the World Twenty20 crown in 2007, and the 50-over World Cup title at home four years later, and enjoys cult status in the cricket-mad country. At his prime Dhoni was widely considered the best "finisher" in the game but his electrifying ability to put bowlers to the sword to the end of innings has waned of late, while he has also struggled to make solid starts. Dhoni's glovework, however, still remains top class. The next 50-over World Cup is still four years away but the World Twenty20 will be held in 2020 and Dhoni enjoys unwavering support from India captain Virat Kohli who has publicly backed him on numerous occasions. "His value to the side is always going to be fantastic. It's not just the runs he will score or the catches and the stumpings he will effect," said Gavaskar, who once held the record for most Test runs and centuries in the longest format of the game. "His overall presence is so calming on the field, it's fantastic for the captain because the captain gets the benefit of his views. So that's a huge plus. "But I think the time has come. Everybody has a shelf life," he added. "He should be going without being pushed out. He should be going on his own terms."

MS Dhoni should be going 'without being pushed out', says Sunil Gavaskar

<p>Long-serving wicketkeeper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ms-dhoni-sets-out-to-discharge-his-duties-as-lieutenant-colonel-in-territorial-army-239647">Mahendra Singh Dhoni</a>'s absence from India's tour of West Indies has handed young Rishabh Pant the perfect opportunity to gain experience and unleash his potential, captain Virat Kohli has said.</p>

<p>Dhoni is sitting out India's tour, which begins with the first Twenty20 against West Indies in Florida later on Saturday, to discharge his responsibilities as an honorary colonel in the army.</p>

<p>The 38-year-old is part of the Territorial Army, a reservist force that draws on civilians who can do short stints to assist the military, and started patrol duties in conflict-torn Jammu and Kashmir from Wednesday.</p>

<p>Pant, 21, has been long earmarked as the successor to Dhoni, who is a veteran of 350 one-dayers and quit playing Tests at the end of 2014.</p>

<p>"It's a great opportunity for someone like Rishabh Pant to really play a lot of international cricket, show his credentials, really unleash his potential at this stage," Kohli told reporters in Fort Lauderdale.</p>

<p>"We know how much ability he has and we all want him to become a consistent performer for the Indian cricket team.</p>

<p>"MS's experience is always going to be a very, very crucial factor but having said that some of these younger guys have a great opportunity ahead of them and they should just look forward to it."</p>

<p>Dhoni, 38, has been the subject of intense speculation on his retirement from international cricket since India's semi-final exit from the World Cup.</p>

<p>Questions have been raised by former cricketers, pundits and local media if it was the right time for him to step away and help India groom his successor.</p>

<p>Dhoni has not provided even a hint of his plans but he enjoys unwavering support from Kohli, who has publicly backed him on numerous occasions.</p>

<p>With regular all-rounder Hardik Pandya also rested for the trip to the Caribbean, where India will play three T20s, three ODIs and two Tests, the touring side will miss their regular 'finishers' in the limited-overs formats.</p>

<p>Kohli said it was a chance for the fringe players to make their case ahead of next year's World T20 in Australia.</p>

<p>"It's a great opportunity for the guys stepping in, to deliver what we need from them as a team and really cement their spots," Kohli said.</p>

<p>"Not having the two finishers, Hardik and MS, around is different to what we are used to. But it also presents an opportunity for the guys coming in to show what they have.</p>

<p>"Looking forward to the World T20 next year I think it's a great position to be in for all these guys coming in."</p>


Long-serving wicketkeeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni's absence from India's tour of West Indies has handed young Rishabh Pant the perfect opportunity to gain experience and unleash his potential, captain Virat Kohli has said.

Long-serving wicketkeeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni's absence from India's tour of West Indies has handed young Rishabh Pant the perfect opportunity to gain experience and unleash his potential, captain Virat Kohli has said. Dhoni is sitting out India's tour, which begins with the first Twenty20 against West Indies in Florida later on Saturday, to discharge his responsibilities as an honorary colonel in the army. The 38-year-old is part of the Territorial Army, a reservist force that draws on civilians who can do short stints to assist the military, and started patrol duties in conflict-torn Jammu and Kashmir from Wednesday. Pant, 21, has been long earmarked as the successor to Dhoni, who is a veteran of 350 one-dayers and quit playing Tests at the end of 2014. "It's a great opportunity for someone like Rishabh Pant to really play a lot of international cricket, show his credentials, really unleash his potential at this stage," Kohli told reporters in Fort Lauderdale. "We know how much ability he has and we all want him to become a consistent performer for the Indian cricket team. "MS's experience is always going to be a very, very crucial factor but having said that some of these younger guys have a great opportunity ahead of them and they should just look forward to it." Dhoni, 38, has been the subject of intense speculation on his retirement from international cricket since India's semi-final exit from the World Cup. Questions have been raised by former cricketers, pundits and local media if it was the right time for him to step away and help India groom his successor. Dhoni has not provided even a hint of his plans but he enjoys unwavering support from Kohli, who has publicly backed him on numerous occasions. With regular all-rounder Hardik Pandya also rested for the trip to the Caribbean, where India will play three T20s, three ODIs and two Tests, the touring side will miss their regular 'finishers' in the limited-overs formats. Kohli said it was a chance for the fringe players to make their case ahead of next year's World T20 in Australia. "It's a great opportunity for the guys stepping in, to deliver what we need from them as a team and really cement their spots," Kohli said. "Not having the two finishers, Hardik and MS, around is different to what we are used to. But it also presents an opportunity for the guys coming in to show what they have. "Looking forward to the World T20 next year I think it's a great position to be in for all these guys coming in."

Virat Kohli eggs on Rishabh Pant to unleash potential in MS Dhoni's absence

<p>With speculation rife about Mahendra Singh Dhoni's retirement, India's chief selector MSK Prasad added to the debate on Sunday by saying that former captain of the Indian cricket team knows when to retire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prasad was addressing media while unveiling <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-squads-for-upcoming-tour-to-west-indies-announced-237433">India's squads for the upcoming West Indies tour</a>, which is scheduled to kick-off from August 3.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni has been the subject of intense speculation&nbsp;on his retirement after India's semi-final exit from the recently concluded Cricket World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Retirement is purely individual. A legendary cricketer like MS Dhoni, knows when to retire but what is the future course of action, what is the roadmap that we have to create is in the hands of the selection committee," said Prasad during a press conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni, who quit playing Tests at the end of 2014, has made himself unavailable for the Windies tour where India will play three T20s, three ODIs and two Tests. It has been reported that he will be spending two months with his paramilitary regiment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni is an honorary lieutenant colonel in India's territorial army and has pulled out of the tour to serve his regiment for the given period of time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the absence of Dhoni, young Rishabh Pant has been selected in the squad as the wicket-keeper across formats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prasad said that the selection committee has laid down plans to give more opportunities to young Pant in order to groom him further.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We've laid down a few more plans and thought of giving as many opportunities to Pant and to see he is groomed. This is our plan right now," said Prasad while announcing the squad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pant will be India's lone wicketkeeper in the limited-overs formats but he will be joined by Wriddhiman Saha in the Test series.&nbsp;</p>


With speculation rife about Mahendra Singh Dhoni's retirement, India's chief selector MSK Prasad added to the debate on Sunday by saying that former captain of the Indian cricket team knows when to retire.

With speculation rife about Mahendra Singh Dhoni's retirement, India's chief selector MSK Prasad added to the debate on Sunday by saying that former captain of the Indian cricket team knows when to retire. Prasad was addressing media while unveiling India's squads for the upcoming West Indies tour, which is scheduled to kick-off from August 3. Dhoni has been the subject of intense speculation on his retirement after India's semi-final exit from the recently concluded Cricket World Cup. "Retirement is purely individual. A legendary cricketer like MS Dhoni, knows when to retire but what is the future course of action, what is the roadmap that we have to create is in the hands of the selection committee," said Prasad during a press conference. Dhoni, who quit playing Tests at the end of 2014, has made himself unavailable for the Windies tour where India will play three T20s, three ODIs and two Tests. It has been reported that he will be spending two months with his paramilitary regiment. Dhoni is an honorary lieutenant colonel in India's territorial army and has pulled out of the tour to serve his regiment for the given period of time. In the absence of Dhoni, young Rishabh Pant has been selected in the squad as the wicket-keeper across formats. Prasad said that the selection committee has laid down plans to give more opportunities to young Pant in order to groom him further. "We've laid down a few more plans and thought of giving as many opportunities to Pant and to see he is groomed. This is our plan right now," said Prasad while announcing the squad. Pant will be India's lone wicketkeeper in the limited-overs formats but he will be joined by Wriddhiman Saha in the Test series.

'Legendary cricketer like MS Dhoni, knows when to retire,' says MSK Prasad

<p>The future of long-serving wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni and finding a solution to the number four batting conundrum will top the agenda when India's selectors meet in Mumbai on Sunday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-squad-for-west-indies-tour-will-be-out-on-this-date-237173">to pick the squads</a> for the team's tour of West Indies.</p>

<p>Dhoni, who turned 38 this month during the Cricket World Cup, enjoys cult status in the cricket-mad country after he captained the side to the World Twenty20 title in 2007 and their second 50-over World Cup title in 2011 at home.</p>

<p>The veteran of 350 one-dayers, however, has been the subject of intense speculation on his retirement from international cricket over the past few days since India's semi-final exit from the World Cup.</p>

<p>Widely considered as the best 'finisher' in contemporary cricket, Dhoni has recently struggled to start his innings while his ability to put bowlers to the sword at the end has also been on the wane.</p>

<p>Dhoni's glovework, however, still remains top class and questions have been raised by former cricketers, pundits and local media if it was the right time for him to step away and help India groom his successor.</p>

<p>The next 50-over World Cup is still four years away but the World Twenty20 will be held in 2020, leaving chief selector MSK Prasad and his colleagues to plan for the tournament in Australia.</p>

<p>Dhoni, who quit playing tests at the end of 2014, has not provided even a hint of what his plans are but he enjoys unwavering support from India captain Virat Kohli who has publicly backed him on numerous occasions in the past.</p>

<p>India will play three T20s, three ODIs and two tests in the Caribbean and the tour will provide the opportunity for the selectors to test the fringe players while resting some who play all three formats for the team.</p>

<p>The team have also failed to nail down the number four batting position in the limited overs sides, something that hurt them during the World Cup, and a new set of batsmen are expected to audition for the spot.</p>

<p>All-rounder Vijay Shankar, who was initially given the nod, left the World Cup through injury while KL Rahul had to move up to open the innings when Shikhar Dhawan was ruled out.</p>

<p>India's test wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, the favourite to fill in Dhoni's shoes in the limited overs formats, slotted into the role during the latter stages of the World Cup, while Manish Pandey, Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill are also in the mix.</p>


The future of long-serving wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni and finding a solution to the number four batting conundrum will top the agenda when India's selectors meet in Mumbai on Sunday to pick the squads for the team's tour of West Indies.

The future of long-serving wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni and finding a solution to the number four batting conundrum will top the agenda when India's selectors meet in Mumbai on Sunday to pick the squads for the team's tour of West Indies. Dhoni, who turned 38 this month during the Cricket World Cup, enjoys cult status in the cricket-mad country after he captained the side to the World Twenty20 title in 2007 and their second 50-over World Cup title in 2011 at home. The veteran of 350 one-dayers, however, has been the subject of intense speculation on his retirement from international cricket over the past few days since India's semi-final exit from the World Cup. Widely considered as the best 'finisher' in contemporary cricket, Dhoni has recently struggled to start his innings while his ability to put bowlers to the sword at the end has also been on the wane. Dhoni's glovework, however, still remains top class and questions have been raised by former cricketers, pundits and local media if it was the right time for him to step away and help India groom his successor. The next 50-over World Cup is still four years away but the World Twenty20 will be held in 2020, leaving chief selector MSK Prasad and his colleagues to plan for the tournament in Australia. Dhoni, who quit playing tests at the end of 2014, has not provided even a hint of what his plans are but he enjoys unwavering support from India captain Virat Kohli who has publicly backed him on numerous occasions in the past. India will play three T20s, three ODIs and two tests in the Caribbean and the tour will provide the opportunity for the selectors to test the fringe players while resting some who play all three formats for the team. The team have also failed to nail down the number four batting position in the limited overs sides, something that hurt them during the World Cup, and a new set of batsmen are expected to audition for the spot. All-rounder Vijay Shankar, who was initially given the nod, left the World Cup through injury while KL Rahul had to move up to open the innings when Shikhar Dhawan was ruled out. India's test wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, the favourite to fill in Dhoni's shoes in the limited overs formats, slotted into the role during the latter stages of the World Cup, while Manish Pandey, Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill are also in the mix.

Selectors face questions over MS Dhoni, number four batsman

<p>Former Indian skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-virender-sehwag-to-vvs-laxman-wishes-pour-in-as-ms-dhoni-turns-38-233742">Mahendra Singh Dhoni celebrated his 38th birthday</a> with wife Sakshi and daughter Ziva along with some members of the Indian cricket team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The celebrations started after India's seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka in their final league stage match on Saturday in Leeds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His wife Shaki posted a slo-mo video on her Instagram account in which Dhoni can be seen cutting the cake.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was also spotted dancing with Ziva in one of the videos surfacing on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>All-rounder Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant shared boomerang videos with Dhoni, in which the former captain is not at all looking as if he is ageing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the videos:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">DHONI cutting the birthday cake along with Ziva and his friends. 😍❤️<br />
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"Video Of The Day" 👌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayDhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/V6PyZ2WnfL">pic.twitter.com/V6PyZ2WnfL</a></p>
— DHONIsm™ ❤️ (@DHONIism) <a href="https://twitter.com/DHONIism/status/1147763657398345734?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy birthday Mahi bhai! Everyday spent with you is a chance to learn and grow. Thank you for being one of the biggest role models in my life ❤️🚁 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayDhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/JUsEMkZYOK">pic.twitter.com/JUsEMkZYOK</a></p>
— hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7/status/1147765448747864065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy birthday mahi bhai . Thank u for always being there as a mentor as a brother as a friend. Have more success in life always🤗🤗 <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/X35YD12h9u">pic.twitter.com/X35YD12h9u</a></p>
— Rishabh Pant (@RishabPant777) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabPant777/status/1147726435794034688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">DHONI cutting the Birthday cake along with ZIVA and his team mates. 😍❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayDhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/kpbhWT6hLm">pic.twitter.com/kpbhWT6hLm</a></p>
— DHONIsm™ ❤️ (@DHONIism) <a href="https://twitter.com/DHONIism/status/1147840168038035457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bzl9430Hmhn/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Happy Bday boy !</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sakshisingh_r/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Sakshi Singh Dhoni</a> (@sakshisingh_r) on <time datetime="2019-07-06T23:10:02+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jul 6, 2019 at 4:10pm PDT</time></p>
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<p>Dhoni has led India to the number one ranking in both Test and ODI formats and also won all major cricketing accolades that one can achieve during their playing stint.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He is the only international captain to have won ICC 50-over World Cup, T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings team won three titles in Indian Premier League (IPL).&nbsp;</p>


Former Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni celebrated his 38th birthday with wife Sakshi and daughter Ziva along with some members of the Indian cricket team. The celebrations started after India's seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka in their final league stage match on Saturday in Leeds.

Former Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni celebrated his 38th birthday with wife Sakshi and daughter Ziva along with some members of the Indian cricket team. The celebrations started after India's seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka in their final league stage match on Saturday in Leeds. His wife Shaki posted a slo-mo video on her Instagram account in which Dhoni can be seen cutting the cake. He was also spotted dancing with Ziva in one of the videos surfacing on social media. All-rounder Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant shared boomerang videos with Dhoni, in which the former captain is not at all looking as if he is ageing. Watch the videos: DHONI cutting the birthday cake along with Ziva and his friends. 😍❤️ "Video Of The Day" 👌#HappyBirthdayDhoni pic.twitter.com/V6PyZ2WnfL — DHONIsm™ ❤️ (@DHONIism) July 7, 2019 × Happy birthday Mahi bhai! Everyday spent with you is a chance to learn and grow. Thank you for being one of the biggest role models in my life ❤️🚁 #HappyBirthdayDhoni @msdhoni pic.twitter.com/JUsEMkZYOK — hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) July 7, 2019 × Happy birthday mahi bhai . Thank u for always being there as a mentor as a brother as a friend. Have more success in life always🤗🤗 @msdhoni pic.twitter.com/X35YD12h9u — Rishabh Pant (@RishabPant777) July 7, 2019 × DHONI cutting the Birthday cake along with ZIVA and his team mates. 😍❤️#HappyBirthdayDhoni pic.twitter.com/kpbhWT6hLm — DHONIsm™ ❤️ (@DHONIism) July 7, 2019 × View this post on Instagram Happy Bday boy ! A post shared by Sakshi Singh Dhoni (@sakshisingh_r) on Jul 6, 2019 at 4:10pm PDT × Dhoni has led India to the number one ranking in both Test and ODI formats and also won all major cricketing accolades that one can achieve during their playing stint. He is the only international captain to have won ICC 50-over World Cup, T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy. MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings team won three titles in Indian Premier League (IPL).

In pics: MS Dhoni's birthday celebration with family and teammates

<p>Indian opener Rohit Sharma's response to&nbsp;Mahendra Singh Dhoni's birthday plans is epic and will definitely leave you laughing out loud.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India's former captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-virender-sehwag-to-vvs-laxman-wishes-pour-in-as-ms-dhoni-turns-38-233742">Dhoni&nbsp;has turned 38</a> and fans, family, friends have wished him, also #HappyBirthdayDhoni is Twitter's top trend since yesterday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit was addressing the media after India's seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka in their final league stage match of Cricket World Cup 2019 on Saturday in Leeds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On being asked about Dhoni's birthday plans, Rohit gave a hilarious reply, he said, "What do you tell someone on their birthday? Happy birthday only right?" &nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have our travel day tomorrow and we don't know we are going to Manchester or Birmingham. Accordingly, we will cut the cake during the bus drive. We will send you the photos," Rohit added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Is there anyone as candid and funny as <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a>? Here's what he had to say when asked about a message for Birthday Boy <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> 😄😁 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/aCD23hgKts">pic.twitter.com/aCD23hgKts</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1147596327276228611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>In the match, Rohit smashed a stunning century and became the first player to hit five centuries in a single World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He is only the fourth batsman after Sachin Tendulkar, Matthew Hayden and Shakib Al Hasan to score more than 600 runs at a single World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India have entered the semi-finals and will lock horns with New Zealand on July 9 for a place in final of Cricket World Cup 2019.&nbsp;</p>


Indian opener Rohit Sharma's response to Mahendra Singh Dhoni's birthday plans is epic and will definitely leave you laughing out loud. India's former captain Dhoni has turned 38 and fans, family, friends have wished him, also #HappyBirthdayDhoni is Twitter's top trend since yesterday.

Indian opener Rohit Sharma's response to Mahendra Singh Dhoni's birthday plans is epic and will definitely leave you laughing out loud. India's former captain Dhoni has turned 38 and fans, family, friends have wished him, also #HappyBirthdayDhoni is Twitter's top trend since yesterday. Rohit was addressing the media after India's seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka in their final league stage match of Cricket World Cup 2019 on Saturday in Leeds. On being asked about Dhoni's birthday plans, Rohit gave a hilarious reply, he said, "What do you tell someone on their birthday? Happy birthday only right?" "We have our travel day tomorrow and we don't know we are going to Manchester or Birmingham. Accordingly, we will cut the cake during the bus drive. We will send you the photos," Rohit added. Watch the video: Is there anyone as candid and funny as @ImRo45? Here's what he had to say when asked about a message for Birthday Boy @msdhoni 😄😁 #TeamIndia #CWC19 #SLvIND pic.twitter.com/aCD23hgKts — BCCI (@BCCI) July 6, 2019 × In the match, Rohit smashed a stunning century and became the first player to hit five centuries in a single World Cup. He is only the fourth batsman after Sachin Tendulkar, Matthew Hayden and Shakib Al Hasan to score more than 600 runs at a single World Cup. India have entered the semi-finals and will lock horns with New Zealand on July 9 for a place in final of Cricket World Cup 2019.

Watch: Rohit Sharma's hilarious response to MS Dhoni's birthday plans

<p>Rohit Sharma admitted there were "lessons" to be learnt from England's bowlers after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-england-end-indias-unbeaten-run-to-revive-semis-hopes-231858">India suffered their first defeat</a> of this World Cup against the hosts on Sunday.</p>

<p>Sharma hit 102 - his third century of the tournament - but India fell short of their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-england-yuzvendra-chahal-completes-his-most-expensive-bowling-spell-in-indian-world-cup-history-231815">338-run target in 31-run loss</a> at Edgbaston.</p>

<p>The Indian vice-captain defended his batsmen while stressing the England bowlers made it hard for both Dhoni and Jadhav, who were both booed by a large Indian crowd in Birmingham.</p>

<p>"When MS and Kedar were batting, I think they were trying to hit, but they were not able to because of the slowness of the pitch," said the Indian vice-captain.</p>

<p>"You've got to give credit to English team because they used the conditions really well. They used the longer boundary really well."</p>

<p>MS Dhoni and Kedar Jadhav were criticised for their lack of intent in the final five overs when the duo managed just 39 runs.</p>

<p>It is not the first time that Dhoni, who remained unbeaten on 42 off 31 deliveries, and Jadhav, who made 12 not out, have got flak for batting slowly.</p>

<p>Jonny Bairstow led England's charge with his 111 off 109 balls to set up an England victory that got them a step closer to booking a semi-finals berth.</p>

<p>Bowlers led by Chris Woakes then bowled a disciplined line to choke India in the final overs despite a 138-run second-wicket stand between Sharma and skipper Virat Kohli.</p>

<p>"They played better cricket throughout this match. While batting they had not one but three partnerships. On the other side we had only one big partnership," Sharma told reporters after India's first loss in seven matches.</p>

<p>"They mixed the short ball and the slower ball and forced us to hit at the longer boundaries which was a lesson for us for our next game."</p>

<p>India need to win one of their remaining two group matches to clinch their semi-final berth, with their next clash against Bangladesh slated for Tuesday back in Birmingham.</p>

<p>Virat Kohli's side looked capable of making a record World Cup run chase at 198 for two from 36 overs, only to lose the plot in the last 10 overs.</p>

<p>England paceman Liam Plunkett took three key wickets, including the prized scalp of Kohli for 66.</p>

<p>Woakes struck early to send back KL Rahul trudging back to the pavilion for nought and later cut short Sharma's innings in the 37th over.</p>

<p>"Losing an early wicket always puts you under pressure, and we lost KL right at the start, and they bowled pretty well in the first 10 overs," said Sharma.</p>

<p>Kohli was not too pleased with the ground in Birmingham having a very short boundary on one side, saying the toss became crucial due to this factor.</p>

<p>"The toss was vital, especially since the boundary was that short. It is a coincidence that it just falls under the limitations of the shortest boundary you can have," Kohli said in the post-match presentation.</p>

<p>"It is quite bizarre on a flat pitch. It is crazy things fall in place like that randomly."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If the batsmen are able to reverse sweep you for six on a 59 metre boundary there is not much you can do. And one side was 82 metres."</p>


Rohit Sharma admitted there were "lessons" to be learnt from England's bowlers after India suffered their first defeat of this World Cup against the hosts on Sunday.

Rohit Sharma admitted there were "lessons" to be learnt from England's bowlers after India suffered their first defeat of this World Cup against the hosts on Sunday. Sharma hit 102 - his third century of the tournament - but India fell short of their 338-run target in 31-run loss at Edgbaston. The Indian vice-captain defended his batsmen while stressing the England bowlers made it hard for both Dhoni and Jadhav, who were both booed by a large Indian crowd in Birmingham. "When MS and Kedar were batting, I think they were trying to hit, but they were not able to because of the slowness of the pitch," said the Indian vice-captain. "You've got to give credit to English team because they used the conditions really well. They used the longer boundary really well." MS Dhoni and Kedar Jadhav were criticised for their lack of intent in the final five overs when the duo managed just 39 runs. It is not the first time that Dhoni, who remained unbeaten on 42 off 31 deliveries, and Jadhav, who made 12 not out, have got flak for batting slowly. Jonny Bairstow led England's charge with his 111 off 109 balls to set up an England victory that got them a step closer to booking a semi-finals berth. Bowlers led by Chris Woakes then bowled a disciplined line to choke India in the final overs despite a 138-run second-wicket stand between Sharma and skipper Virat Kohli. "They played better cricket throughout this match. While batting they had not one but three partnerships. On the other side we had only one big partnership," Sharma told reporters after India's first loss in seven matches. "They mixed the short ball and the slower ball and forced us to hit at the longer boundaries which was a lesson for us for our next game." India need to win one of their remaining two group matches to clinch their semi-final berth, with their next clash against Bangladesh slated for Tuesday back in Birmingham. Virat Kohli's side looked capable of making a record World Cup run chase at 198 for two from 36 overs, only to lose the plot in the last 10 overs. England paceman Liam Plunkett took three key wickets, including the prized scalp of Kohli for 66. Woakes struck early to send back KL Rahul trudging back to the pavilion for nought and later cut short Sharma's innings in the 37th over. "Losing an early wicket always puts you under pressure, and we lost KL right at the start, and they bowled pretty well in the first 10 overs," said Sharma. Kohli was not too pleased with the ground in Birmingham having a very short boundary on one side, saying the toss became crucial due to this factor. "The toss was vital, especially since the boundary was that short. It is a coincidence that it just falls under the limitations of the shortest boundary you can have," Kohli said in the post-match presentation. "It is quite bizarre on a flat pitch. It is crazy things fall in place like that randomly." "If the batsmen are able to reverse sweep you for six on a 59 metre boundary there is not much you can do. And one side was 82 metres."

World Cup 2019: Dhoni, Jadhav booed by India supporters as Rohit reflects on poor show against England

<p>A cricket fan has complained about Sanjay Manjrekar's commentary during the twelfth edition of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">Cricket World Cup</a>, which is underway in England and Wales.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has often&nbsp;been criticised for his on-air comments and Twitter posts and a similar incident happened again in the ongoing edition of World Cup as a fan has called his comments "biased".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addie Kumar, a cricket fan from Sydney, Australia has taken a swing at Majrekar in a letter written to the International Cricket Council (ICC).</p>

<p><strong>In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/major-takeaways-from-indias-historic-world-cup-win-over-pakistan-in-manchester-227794">Major takeaways from India's historic win over Pakistan in World Cup</a></strong></p>

<p>The letter addressed to ICC's head office in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), read, "Hey ICC! Greetings from Sydney, Australia. A bit of feedback about Sanjay Manjrekar, on your commentary panel, for CWC: I find him utterly biased and very unprofessional, behind the mic. He also sounds full of himself. Other than that, great World Cup. Thanks."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addie tweeted the letter with a caption, "I am unhappy with Sanjay Manjerekar’s commentary. I wrote to ICC about it. #CWC19."</p>

<p>In another tweet, Addie wrote, "This is for the comment Manjrekar made a few days ago when he said this about Dhoni: "He is our watchdog behind the stumps". You are a commentator. You have no side. There is no "us". There is no "our". #CWC19."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I am unahappy with Sanjay Manjerekar's commentary. I wrote to ICC about it. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://t.co/KzgqtLHuzU">pic.twitter.com/KzgqtLHuzU</a></p>
— Addie Kumar (@adityeah) <a href="https://twitter.com/adityeah/status/1142275772180156416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>The cricketer-turned-commentator&nbsp;has played international cricket for India from 1987 until 1996 as a right-handed middle order batsman.&nbsp;</p>


A cricket fan has complained about Sanjay Manjrekar's commentary during the twelfth edition of the Cricket World Cup, which is underway in England and Wales. Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has often been criticised for his on-air comments and Twitter posts and a similar incident happened again in the ongoing edition of World Cup as a fan has called his comments "biased".

A cricket fan has complained about Sanjay Manjrekar's commentary during the twelfth edition of the Cricket World Cup, which is underway in England and Wales. Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has often been criticised for his on-air comments and Twitter posts and a similar incident happened again in the ongoing edition of World Cup as a fan has called his comments "biased". Addie Kumar, a cricket fan from Sydney, Australia has taken a swing at Majrekar in a letter written to the International Cricket Council (ICC). In pics: Major takeaways from India's historic win over Pakistan in World Cup The letter addressed to ICC's head office in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), read, "Hey ICC! Greetings from Sydney, Australia. A bit of feedback about Sanjay Manjrekar, on your commentary panel, for CWC: I find him utterly biased and very unprofessional, behind the mic. He also sounds full of himself. Other than that, great World Cup. Thanks." Addie tweeted the letter with a caption, "I am unhappy with Sanjay Manjerekar’s commentary. I wrote to ICC about it. #CWC19." In another tweet, Addie wrote, "This is for the comment Manjrekar made a few days ago when he said this about Dhoni: "He is our watchdog behind the stumps". You are a commentator. You have no side. There is no "us". There is no "our". #CWC19." I am unahappy with Sanjay Manjerekar's commentary. I wrote to ICC about it. #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/KzgqtLHuzU — Addie Kumar (@adityeah) June 22, 2019 × The cricketer-turned-commentator has played international cricket for India from 1987 until 1996 as a right-handed middle order batsman.

World Cup: Fan complains about Sanjay Manjrekar's 'biased' commentary, writes to ICC

<p>Afghanistan restricted India to an achievable target as the 'Men in Blue' struggled against Afghan spinners and posted&nbsp;224 for eight in their 50 overs in the Match 28 of Cricket World Cup 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-28-india-vs-afghanistan-229477">India made a sluggish start</a> after electing to bat first but the top batting order failed to leave any impact despite skipper Virat Kohli, who scored 67 from 63 balls in Southampton on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fans and spectators categorically criticised former India skipper MS Dhoni for his slow innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni struggled to find any fluency, hitting 28 off 52 balls before he was stumped by Ikram Alikhil off the bowling of Rashid.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This was the first time in eight years, Dhoni was stumped and only the second in his One-Day International&nbsp;career, both times in World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In World Cup 2011, on Devendra Bishoo's ball, Dhoni was stumped by wicket-keeper Devon Thomas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Overall, Dhoni has been stumped on six occasions in his international cricket career.&nbsp;</p>


Afghanistan restricted India to an achievable target as the 'Men in Blue' struggled against Afghan spinners and posted 224 for eight in their 50 overs in the Match 28 of Cricket World Cup 2019.

Afghanistan restricted India to an achievable target as the 'Men in Blue' struggled against Afghan spinners and posted 224 for eight in their 50 overs in the Match 28 of Cricket World Cup 2019. India made a sluggish start after electing to bat first but the top batting order failed to leave any impact despite skipper Virat Kohli, who scored 67 from 63 balls in Southampton on Saturday. Fans and spectators categorically criticised former India skipper MS Dhoni for his slow innings. Dhoni struggled to find any fluency, hitting 28 off 52 balls before he was stumped by Ikram Alikhil off the bowling of Rashid. This was the first time in eight years, Dhoni was stumped and only the second in his One-Day International career, both times in World Cup. In World Cup 2011, on Devendra Bishoo's ball, Dhoni was stumped by wicket-keeper Devon Thomas. Overall, Dhoni has been stumped on six occasions in his international cricket career.

World Cup: MS Dhoni stumped in ODIs for the first time in 8 years

Gloves Row: ICC Says Individual Messages Are Not Permitted

Gravitas:  ICC Vs BCCI: Row Over Dhoni's Gloves

<p>Former Indian cricket captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=ms+dhoni">Mahendra Singh Dhoni</a> has revealed his childhood dream which can be his post-retirement career option. He said that since childhood, he wanted to become a painter and also shared two of his paintings. Dhoni said that he will soon hold an exhibition of his paintings and asked for suggestions and advice from his fans in this regard.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a video shared on Instagram, Dhoni said, "I wanted to share a secret with all of you. Right from when I was a kid I always wanted to become an artist."</p>

<p>"So decided I have played a lot of cricket and it's time for me to take up what I really wanted to become. And I started getting into painting."</p>

<p>Twitterati was&nbsp;rather stunned as one user wrote, "@msdhoni is this happening for real? Unbelievable!"</p>

<p>Another user suggested, "Chill out folks. @msdhoni's video is nothing short of a comedy sketch and is meant to be taken that way."</p>

<p>Well, it is difficult to guess that paintings are made by Dhoni or his daughter Ziva.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video to see the&nbsp;paintings!</strong></p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BxtsSZPhsot/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">बॉलर्स के छक्के छुड़ा-छुड़कार दुनिया जीत चुके 'थाला' रिटायरमेंट के बाद छुड़ाएंगे पेंटर्स के छक्के 😉 वीडियो क्रेडिट: @m.s_dhoni.7 #msdhoni #postretirementplan #MSD #Thala #cricket #Indiacricket #Indiacricketteam #Wc2019</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/hindimesports/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Hindi Me Sports</a> (@hindimesports) on <time datetime="2019-05-21T06:18:48+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">May 20, 2019 at 11:18pm PDT</time></p>
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<p>Dhoni is the first choice wicket-keeper for the England-bound Indian cricket team to play the Cricket World Cup 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is expected that the two-time World Cup-winning captain will announce retirement after the World Cup.&nbsp;</p>


Former Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has revealed his childhood dream which can be his post-retirement career option. He said that since childhood, he wanted to become a painter and also shared two of his paintings.

Former Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has revealed his childhood dream which can be his post-retirement career option. He said that since childhood, he wanted to become a painter and also shared two of his paintings. Dhoni said that he will soon hold an exhibition of his paintings and asked for suggestions and advice from his fans in this regard. In a video shared on Instagram, Dhoni said, "I wanted to share a secret with all of you. Right from when I was a kid I always wanted to become an artist." "So decided I have played a lot of cricket and it's time for me to take up what I really wanted to become. And I started getting into painting." Twitterati was rather stunned as one user wrote, "@msdhoni is this happening for real? Unbelievable!" Another user suggested, "Chill out folks. @msdhoni's video is nothing short of a comedy sketch and is meant to be taken that way." Well, it is difficult to guess that paintings are made by Dhoni or his daughter Ziva. Watch the video to see the paintings! View this post on Instagram बॉलर्स के छक्के छुड़ा-छुड़कार दुनिया जीत चुके 'थाला' रिटायरमेंट के बाद छुड़ाएंगे पेंटर्स के छक्के 😉 वीडियो क्रेडिट: @m.s_dhoni.7 #msdhoni #postretirementplan #MSD #Thala #cricket #Indiacricket #Indiacricketteam #Wc2019 A post shared by Hindi Me Sports (@hindimesports) on May 20, 2019 at 11:18pm PDT × Dhoni is the first choice wicket-keeper for the England-bound Indian cricket team to play the Cricket World Cup 2019. It is expected that the two-time World Cup-winning captain will announce retirement after the World Cup.

Watch: MS Dhoni reveals 'childhood dream' of becoming painter, shares few artworks

<p>Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the skipper of Chennai team, has reached another milestone while playing the final of Indian Premier League 2019 against Mumbai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni became the most successful wicket-keeper in the history of IPL by taking his dismissals tally to 132.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni, who took two catches in the IPL final against Mumbai, has now taken 94 catches and 38 stumpings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He surpassed his Indian teammate Dinesh Karthik.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Karthik has 131 dismissals to his credit while Robin Uthappa has 90 scalps behind the stumps.</p>

<p>In the match, Dhoni took Quinton de Kock's catch off Shardul Thakur's bowling.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After that he reached the milestone with a diving catch off Deepak Chahar to dismiss Rohit Sharma.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">MS Dhoni's involvement in getting rid of both the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MumbaiIndians?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MumbaiIndians</a> openers takes him to 132 dismissals in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> - setting a new record.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvCSK</a> <a href="https://t.co/dACuk70Akw">pic.twitter.com/dACuk70Akw</a></p>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1127584927413936128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Mumbai and Chennai have played a total of 27 matches out of which Mumbai won 16 and Chennai managed to win 11.&nbsp;</p>


Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the skipper of Chennai team, has reached another milestone while playing the final of Indian Premier League 2019 against Mumbai. Dhoni became the most successful wicket-keeper in the history of IPL by taking his dismissals tally to 132.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the skipper of Chennai team, has reached another milestone while playing the final of Indian Premier League 2019 against Mumbai. Dhoni became the most successful wicket-keeper in the history of IPL by taking his dismissals tally to 132. Dhoni, who took two catches in the IPL final against Mumbai, has now taken 94 catches and 38 stumpings. He surpassed his Indian teammate Dinesh Karthik. Karthik has 131 dismissals to his credit while Robin Uthappa has 90 scalps behind the stumps. In the match, Dhoni took Quinton de Kock's catch off Shardul Thakur's bowling. After that he reached the milestone with a diving catch off Deepak Chahar to dismiss Rohit Sharma. MS Dhoni's involvement in getting rid of both the #MumbaiIndians openers takes him to 132 dismissals in #VIVOIPL - setting a new record.#MIvCSK pic.twitter.com/dACuk70Akw — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 12, 2019 × Mumbai and Chennai have played a total of 27 matches out of which Mumbai won 16 and Chennai managed to win 11.

IPL 2019: MS Dhoni became most successful keeper in IPL history

<p>Defending champions Chennai entered their eighth IPL final and skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni credited the clinical effort of his bowing unit for setting up the platform for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-defending-champions-chennai-defeat-delhi-to-storm-into-final-217611">comfortable win over Delhi in the Qualifier 2</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Opting to bowl, Chennai first restricted Delhi to 147 for nine and then chased down the target with six wickets in hand to set up a clash against Mumbai in the IPL final in Hyderabad on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The crucial part was to keep getting wickets. The credit needs to go to the bowlers. The captain only asks this is what I need. Then it's up to them to figure out how to bowl, and they have to put in the hard yards," Dhoni said at the post-match presentation ceremony.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Thanks to the bowling department for where we are this season. I would have preferred it if the openers finished it off. Once they got the required rate below 6 an over, there was no reason to play big shots and get out. They did the hard yards," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni also lauded the entire Chennai team for producing a clinical performance when it mattered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's the usual route, last year was the exception. The kind of response from the boys today was brilliant. The way we batted to get 140-plus runs was very nice," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The spinners got some turn, and we kept getting wickets at the right time."</p>

<p>Delhi&nbsp;captain Shreyas Iyer, on the contrary, blamed his batting department for the loss.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We had a disappointing start, losing two wickets in the powerplay, and it was hard to recover from that. They have amazing spinners. But we've had a great season," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"None of the batsmen took the initiative to take the team through and there wasn't a partnership buidling. Disappointing for us but a good learning."</p>

<p>Iyer, though, was about the pitch on offer this season at their home turf at the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's something to think about (the Delhi pitch). We didn't win too many home games, but we can't complain about pitches. We've been practising a lot on slow wickets. As professionals we can't give excuses," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think we've learned a lot, looking at seniors like MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma leading their teams. It's a proud moment for me, standing with them at the toss. They talk to me, share their experiences, and that's great for me."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shedding more light on his experience of leading the team, Iyer said: "I've heard Rohit and many of them talk about how difficult it is to be captain, and yeah, it's not an easy job to do, but I'm happy to be the captain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Really proud of the boys. Loving the way we've gelled as a family. The coaches and support staff have been amazing. A lot more to come next season. We've found the base, now is the time to grow," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Man-of-the-match Faf du Plessis, who hit a 39-ball 50 during the chase, said Chennai's experience of winning big games did the trick even though they didn't have a very good outing in the last phase of the tournament this season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We didn't have the best run in the last five or six games, but we do have a lot of confidence as a team that's won a lot of big games. We drew a lot of strength from that," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our strength is to get partnerships going and extend that, even if we take our time initially. We've got a lot of good batsmen down the order, and we back them to catch up with the required rate."&nbsp;</p>


Defending champions Chennai entered their eighth IPL final and skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni credited the clinical effort of his bowing unit for setting up the platform for the comfortable win over Delhi in the Qualifier 2.

Defending champions Chennai entered their eighth IPL final and skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni credited the clinical effort of his bowing unit for setting up the platform for the comfortable win over Delhi in the Qualifier 2. Opting to bowl, Chennai first restricted Delhi to 147 for nine and then chased down the target with six wickets in hand to set up a clash against Mumbai in the IPL final in Hyderabad on Sunday. "The crucial part was to keep getting wickets. The credit needs to go to the bowlers. The captain only asks this is what I need. Then it's up to them to figure out how to bowl, and they have to put in the hard yards," Dhoni said at the post-match presentation ceremony. "Thanks to the bowling department for where we are this season. I would have preferred it if the openers finished it off. Once they got the required rate below 6 an over, there was no reason to play big shots and get out. They did the hard yards," he added. Dhoni also lauded the entire Chennai team for producing a clinical performance when it mattered. "It's the usual route, last year was the exception. The kind of response from the boys today was brilliant. The way we batted to get 140-plus runs was very nice," he said. "The spinners got some turn, and we kept getting wickets at the right time." Delhi captain Shreyas Iyer, on the contrary, blamed his batting department for the loss. "We had a disappointing start, losing two wickets in the powerplay, and it was hard to recover from that. They have amazing spinners. But we've had a great season," he said. "None of the batsmen took the initiative to take the team through and there wasn't a partnership buidling. Disappointing for us but a good learning." Iyer, though, was about the pitch on offer this season at their home turf at the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium. "It's something to think about (the Delhi pitch). We didn't win too many home games, but we can't complain about pitches. We've been practising a lot on slow wickets. As professionals we can't give excuses," he said. "I think we've learned a lot, looking at seniors like MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma leading their teams. It's a proud moment for me, standing with them at the toss. They talk to me, share their experiences, and that's great for me." Shedding more light on his experience of leading the team, Iyer said: "I've heard Rohit and many of them talk about how difficult it is to be captain, and yeah, it's not an easy job to do, but I'm happy to be the captain. "Really proud of the boys. Loving the way we've gelled as a family. The coaches and support staff have been amazing. A lot more to come next season. We've found the base, now is the time to grow," he said. Man-of-the-match Faf du Plessis, who hit a 39-ball 50 during the chase, said Chennai's experience of winning big games did the trick even though they didn't have a very good outing in the last phase of the tournament this season. "We didn't have the best run in the last five or six games, but we do have a lot of confidence as a team that's won a lot of big games. We drew a lot of strength from that," he said. "Our strength is to get partnerships going and extend that, even if we take our time initially. We've got a lot of good batsmen down the order, and we back them to catch up with the required rate."

Dhoni credits bowlers for easy win over DC in Qualifier 2

<p>Chennai skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni said that his side should have read the pitch better after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-mumbai-enter-final-after-defeating-chennai-by-6-wickets-216823">losing to Mumbai in Qualifier 1</a> of Indian Premier League 2019 on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Suryakumar Yadav dazzled as he scored an unbeaten 71 runs off 54 balls, which included 10 boundaries at the Chidambaram Stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Chepauk's a sluggish pitch, which offered considerable turn and odd bounce, Suryakumar played a brilliant innings with Mumbai reaching the target in 18.3 overs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the post-match presentation, Dhoni said, "We had to assess the conditions quickly, we have played 6 to 7 games on this pitch and should have read the pitch better, that's the home advantage."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chennai, however, will get another chance to make it to their eighth summit clash as they will now play the second Qualifier against the winner of the 'Eliminator' between Delhi and Hyderabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further added, "We needed to know how the pitch behaves, would it be tacky? Is the ball coming on or not, those were the things we didn't do well, I think the batting needs to get better."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">.<a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a> can book an early ✈ to Hyderabad as <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> await one of DC or SRH in Qualifier 2.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvCSK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/0gfyvT4unR">pic.twitter.com/0gfyvT4unR</a></p>
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<p>Dhoni also said, "Hopefully, we will do well in the next game."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni also pointed out the mistakes his team made during the match, he said, "I think we were a bit unlucky at times, some balls dropped right in the middle, a few catches weren't taken."</p>

<p>"We perhaps had to bowl slightly away from the batsmen, could have slowed down the pace and bowl with more variations," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, the ecstatic winning captain Rohit Sharma said, "Great feeling to know that we'll be playing the finals. Three days now in which we can switch off before the final."&nbsp;</p>


Chennai skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni said that his side should have read the pitch better after losing to Mumbai in Qualifier 1 of Indian Premier League 2019 on Tuesday.

Chennai skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni said that his side should have read the pitch better after losing to Mumbai in Qualifier 1 of Indian Premier League 2019 on Tuesday. Suryakumar Yadav dazzled as he scored an unbeaten 71 runs off 54 balls, which included 10 boundaries at the Chidambaram Stadium. On Chepauk's a sluggish pitch, which offered considerable turn and odd bounce, Suryakumar played a brilliant innings with Mumbai reaching the target in 18.3 overs. During the post-match presentation, Dhoni said, "We had to assess the conditions quickly, we have played 6 to 7 games on this pitch and should have read the pitch better, that's the home advantage." Chennai, however, will get another chance to make it to their eighth summit clash as they will now play the second Qualifier against the winner of the 'Eliminator' between Delhi and Hyderabad. He further added, "We needed to know how the pitch behaves, would it be tacky? Is the ball coming on or not, those were the things we didn't do well, I think the batting needs to get better." .@mipaltan can book an early ✈ to Hyderabad as @ChennaiIPL await one of DC or SRH in Qualifier 2.#MIvCSK #VIVOIPL pic.twitter.com/0gfyvT4unR — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 7, 2019 × Dhoni also said, "Hopefully, we will do well in the next game." Dhoni also pointed out the mistakes his team made during the match, he said, "I think we were a bit unlucky at times, some balls dropped right in the middle, a few catches weren't taken." "We perhaps had to bowl slightly away from the batsmen, could have slowed down the pace and bowl with more variations," he added. On the other hand, the ecstatic winning captain Rohit Sharma said, "Great feeling to know that we'll be playing the finals. Three days now in which we can switch off before the final."

'We should have read pitch better', says MS Dhoni after losing to Mumbai in Qualifier 1

<p>Former captain of the Indian cricket team, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=ms+dhoni">Mahendra Singh Dhoni</a>, a seasoned wicket-keeper, has troubled his opponents with his sharp skills behind the stumps.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With his splendid batting in the middle-order, Dhoni is termed as one of the best finishers of the game as he has won many matches for his team with the help of a boundary or six.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni is popular for his precise decision-making at crucial junctures of the match including at the toss.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But who would have thought that all of this is related to a student, who is sitting in an examination hall, giving his end-of-semester exam?&nbsp;</p>

<p>Believe it or not, it is very much related as a question paper given to students of Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT-M) asked a Dhoni-related question.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The students were asked to help Chennai skipper Dhoni to choose whether to bat or field if he wins the toss in his next Indian Premier League match.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>The question was:</strong> "Dew can play a major role in day-night matches. Excessive dew in the outfield makes the ball wet. For spinners, the challenge is to grip the wet ball and get it to impart spin. For fast bowlers, it is difficult to hit the desired length. Hence, this can put the fielding team at a disadvantage. During IPL 2019, Chennai Super Kings are likely to play a qualifier at Chepauk Stadium on May 7. As per the weather forecast on May 7, the relative humidity in Chennai is expected to be 70 per cent. The temperature at the start of the game is expected to be 39 degrees. At the beginning of the second innings, the temperature is expected to drop to 27 degrees. Based on this info, if Dhoni wins the toss would you recommend batting or fielding first. Justify your answer."&nbsp;</p>

<p>This was highlighted when the International Cricket Council (ICC) tweeted about it, hailing the Professor Vignesh Muthuvijayan, who set the question paper.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shout out to Professor Vignesh at <a href="https://twitter.com/iitmadras?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iitmadras</a> for making exams relevant to important, real-life issues!<br />
<br />
Can anyone help <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> make a decision before the toss tomorrow? (and show your workings 😜) <a href="https://t.co/8fp7rGI5BG">pic.twitter.com/8fp7rGI5BG</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1125404977810243584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hats off to the professor who made this question. Some people ask that what is the use of this kinds study in real world so this question is the answer to all that such people.</p>
— Khetki Raj (@khetkiraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/khetkiraj/status/1125829267235921920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wow amazing...</p>
— MuthuDFAN (@muthu2328) <a href="https://twitter.com/muthu2328/status/1125611969061343232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Shout out to Professor Vignesh at @iitmadras for making exams relevant to important, real-life issues! Can anyone help @msdhoni and @ChennaiIPL make a decision before the toss tomorrow? (and show your workings)," ICC tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Twitter users hailed the Professor, who had set the question paper.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> And Help 😅😂😂<br />
We Still are The Nursery Students Of That University Where Dhoni is The Ultimate Principal ❤️❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a></p>
— Srkian Arpan Sarkar (@srk_arpan) <a href="https://twitter.com/srk_arpan/status/1125413731406532609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> will bowl first as the temperature is 39 in the beginning and in second innings it will drop to 27, hence major chances of due because of 70% humidity as the humid air will turn into water (due) on cold surfaces.</p>
— Durwas Mohite (@DurwasMohite) <a href="https://twitter.com/DurwasMohite/status/1125408340136341504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> wins the toss they should bowl first.</p>
— K U Mukuntan23 (@Mukuntan23) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mukuntan23/status/1125409066224738305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It's obvious whoever win the toss will elect field first. Dew will play crucial role , fielding second will definitely become challenging. Though Chennai has a spinning track , spinners in second inning will be in trouble to control the ball.<br />
<br />
Win the toss , win the match.</p>
— Patel Meet (@msp_011) <a href="https://twitter.com/msp_011/status/1125416629003624448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>In the match, the Qualifier 1 of IPL 2019,&nbsp;Dhoni did win the toss and opted to bat first but eventually lost the match to Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai.&nbsp;</p>


Former captain of the Indian cricket team, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, a seasoned wicket-keeper, has troubled his opponents with his sharp skills behind the stumps. With his splendid batting in the middle-order, Dhoni is termed as one of the best finishers of the game as he has won many matches for his team with the help of a boundary or six.

Former captain of the Indian cricket team, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, a seasoned wicket-keeper, has troubled his opponents with his sharp skills behind the stumps. With his splendid batting in the middle-order, Dhoni is termed as one of the best finishers of the game as he has won many matches for his team with the help of a boundary or six. Dhoni is popular for his precise decision-making at crucial junctures of the match including at the toss. But who would have thought that all of this is related to a student, who is sitting in an examination hall, giving his end-of-semester exam? Believe it or not, it is very much related as a question paper given to students of Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT-M) asked a Dhoni-related question. The students were asked to help Chennai skipper Dhoni to choose whether to bat or field if he wins the toss in his next Indian Premier League match. The question was: "Dew can play a major role in day-night matches. Excessive dew in the outfield makes the ball wet. For spinners, the challenge is to grip the wet ball and get it to impart spin. For fast bowlers, it is difficult to hit the desired length. Hence, this can put the fielding team at a disadvantage. During IPL 2019, Chennai Super Kings are likely to play a qualifier at Chepauk Stadium on May 7. As per the weather forecast on May 7, the relative humidity in Chennai is expected to be 70 per cent. The temperature at the start of the game is expected to be 39 degrees. At the beginning of the second innings, the temperature is expected to drop to 27 degrees. Based on this info, if Dhoni wins the toss would you recommend batting or fielding first. Justify your answer." This was highlighted when the International Cricket Council (ICC) tweeted about it, hailing the Professor Vignesh Muthuvijayan, who set the question paper. Shout out to Professor Vignesh at @iitmadras for making exams relevant to important, real-life issues! Can anyone help @msdhoni and @ChennaiIPL make a decision before the toss tomorrow? (and show your workings 😜) pic.twitter.com/8fp7rGI5BG — ICC (@ICC) May 6, 2019 × Hats off to the professor who made this question. Some people ask that what is the use of this kinds study in real world so this question is the answer to all that such people. — Khetki Raj (@khetkiraj) May 7, 2019 × Wow amazing... — MuthuDFAN (@muthu2328) May 7, 2019 × "Shout out to Professor Vignesh at @iitmadras for making exams relevant to important, real-life issues! Can anyone help @msdhoni and @ChennaiIPL make a decision before the toss tomorrow? (and show your workings)," ICC tweeted. While Twitter users hailed the Professor, who had set the question paper. @msdhoni And Help 😅😂😂 We Still are The Nursery Students Of That University Where Dhoni is The Ultimate Principal ❤️❤️@ChennaiIPL — Srkian Arpan Sarkar (@srk_arpan) May 6, 2019 × @msdhoni will bowl first as the temperature is 39 in the beginning and in second innings it will drop to 27, hence major chances of due because of 70% humidity as the humid air will turn into water (due) on cold surfaces. — Durwas Mohite (@DurwasMohite) May 6, 2019 × If @msdhoni wins the toss they should bowl first. — K U Mukuntan23 (@Mukuntan23) May 6, 2019 × It's obvious whoever win the toss will elect field first. Dew will play crucial role , fielding second will definitely become challenging. Though Chennai has a spinning track , spinners in second inning will be in trouble to control the ball. Win the toss , win the match. — Patel Meet (@msp_011) May 6, 2019 × In the match, the Qualifier 1 of IPL 2019, Dhoni did win the toss and opted to bat first but eventually lost the match to Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai.

Twitterati hail IIT Madras for asking a question related to MS Dhoni

<p>Chennai's skipper MS Dhoni, who was critical of his side's top-batting order after losing the previous game to Bangalore, looked satisfied after Shane Watson guided <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-shane-watsons-96-gets-chennai-back-on-winning-track-213086">Chennai defeat Hyderabad by six wickets</a> on Tuesday.</p>

<p>On Chidambaram Stadium track, Watson roared back to form with a 96 off 53 balls splendid knock.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the post-match presentation ceremony, Dhoni hailed Watson as a "matchwinner". He said, "Watson has been a matchwinner for us. He has been batting well in the nets."</p>

<p>He added, "Although he (Watson) did struggle a bit. This is the time when you need to back them."&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the win, Chennai have returned on top in the point table with eight wins from 11 games, whereas Hyderabad remained at fourth with five wins from 10 games.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On being asked about Chennai mantra of success, Dhoni said that "it's a secret" and he won't reveal it before retirement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With a witty smile on his face, he added, "If I tell everyone what it is, then they won't buy me at the auctions." &nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni further added, "The crowd support and franchise's support are key of course. Huge credit has to also go to the support staff who play a huge role in keeping the team atmosphere good for the team and other individuals."</p>

<p>"Other than this, I can't reveal anything till I retire."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Will <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> tell <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bhogleharsha</a> the secret to <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a>'s consistency, season after season 👀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvSRH</a> <a href="https://t.co/FMasdNUqzP">pic.twitter.com/FMasdNUqzP</a></p>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1120760569856811008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Dhoni has battled a dodgy back for a long time and he wants to be careful with it as the ICC World Cup is round the corner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Chennai skipper said that there has been some stiffness but it is holding up as of now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The back is holding up, it's not getting worse, with the World Cup coming up, can't afford that, because that's too important," Dhoni said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni said that at the highest level, there aren't any players who are not playing with a niggle or two.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If it becomes worse, I certainly take some time off but at this level you play with some niggle or the other. Because if you wait to get fully fit, then there will be a gap of five years between two matches," the skipper said cheekily.</p>


Chennai's skipper MS Dhoni, who was critical of his side's top-batting order after losing the previous game to Bangalore, looked satisfied after Shane Watson guided Chennai defeat Hyderabad by six wickets on Tuesday.

Chennai's skipper MS Dhoni, who was critical of his side's top-batting order after losing the previous game to Bangalore, looked satisfied after Shane Watson guided Chennai defeat Hyderabad by six wickets on Tuesday. On Chidambaram Stadium track, Watson roared back to form with a 96 off 53 balls splendid knock. During the post-match presentation ceremony, Dhoni hailed Watson as a "matchwinner". He said, "Watson has been a matchwinner for us. He has been batting well in the nets." He added, "Although he (Watson) did struggle a bit. This is the time when you need to back them." With the win, Chennai have returned on top in the point table with eight wins from 11 games, whereas Hyderabad remained at fourth with five wins from 10 games. On being asked about Chennai mantra of success, Dhoni said that "it's a secret" and he won't reveal it before retirement. With a witty smile on his face, he added, "If I tell everyone what it is, then they won't buy me at the auctions." Dhoni further added, "The crowd support and franchise's support are key of course. Huge credit has to also go to the support staff who play a huge role in keeping the team atmosphere good for the team and other individuals." "Other than this, I can't reveal anything till I retire." Will @msdhoni tell @bhogleharsha the secret to @ChennaiIPL's consistency, season after season 👀#CSKvSRH pic.twitter.com/FMasdNUqzP — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 23, 2019 × Dhoni has battled a dodgy back for a long time and he wants to be careful with it as the ICC World Cup is round the corner. The Chennai skipper said that there has been some stiffness but it is holding up as of now. "The back is holding up, it's not getting worse, with the World Cup coming up, can't afford that, because that's too important," Dhoni said. Dhoni said that at the highest level, there aren't any players who are not playing with a niggle or two. "If it becomes worse, I certainly take some time off but at this level you play with some niggle or the other. Because if you wait to get fully fit, then there will be a gap of five years between two matches," the skipper said cheekily.

'They won't buy me at the auctions', says MS Dhoni on revealing Chennai's 'secret' success mantra

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-wont-buy-me-at-the-auctions-says-ms-dhoni-on-revealing-chennais-secret-success-mantra-213087">Mahendra Singh Dhoni</a> will not hesitate to take time off before World Cup if his niggling back problem worsens during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), the stumper-batsman has said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-shane-watsons-96-gets-chennai-back-on-winning-track-213086">Chennai </a>skipper Dhoni missed last week's defeat by&nbsp;Hyderabad due to a back spasm and the 37-year-old is unwilling to risk a serious injury that could rule him out of the World Cup starting in England and Wales on May 30.</p>

<p>"It's holding up, it's not showing signs of getting worse. With the World Cup coming up, I have to keep in mind that I can't really get injured," Dhoni said of his injury after Chennai's six-wicket victory over Hyderabad on Tuesday.</p>

<p>"There's a bit of stiffness. There was a bit of spasm at the start of the tournament but there's no spasm as of now. I'm used to playing international cricket with some kind of pain", said Dhoni.</p>

<p>He added, "If you wait to be 100 per cent before you play a game maybe you'd have to wait five years before you play the next game. It's something I can afford to do. If it gets worse, I'll definitely take some time off."</p>

<p>Dhoni has played 341 one-day internationals, scoring 10,500 runs at an average of just under 51, and his glovework makes him the first-choice wicketkeeper in the limited-overs format.</p>

<p>India's 2011 World Cup winning captain has scored over 300 runs in nine ODIs this year, with four half-centuries, including three in a row during the tour of Australia.</p>

<p>The IPL ends on May 12. India begins its World Cup campaign against South Africa in Southampton on June 5.</p>


Mahendra Singh Dhoni will not hesitate to take time off before World Cup if his niggling back problem worsens during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), the stumper-batsman has said.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni will not hesitate to take time off before World Cup if his niggling back problem worsens during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), the stumper-batsman has said. Chennai skipper Dhoni missed last week's defeat by Hyderabad due to a back spasm and the 37-year-old is unwilling to risk a serious injury that could rule him out of the World Cup starting in England and Wales on May 30. "It's holding up, it's not showing signs of getting worse. With the World Cup coming up, I have to keep in mind that I can't really get injured," Dhoni said of his injury after Chennai's six-wicket victory over Hyderabad on Tuesday. "There's a bit of stiffness. There was a bit of spasm at the start of the tournament but there's no spasm as of now. I'm used to playing international cricket with some kind of pain", said Dhoni. He added, "If you wait to be 100 per cent before you play a game maybe you'd have to wait five years before you play the next game. It's something I can afford to do. If it gets worse, I'll definitely take some time off." Dhoni has played 341 one-day internationals, scoring 10,500 runs at an average of just under 51, and his glovework makes him the first-choice wicketkeeper in the limited-overs format. India's 2011 World Cup winning captain has scored over 300 runs in nine ODIs this year, with four half-centuries, including three in a row during the tour of Australia. The IPL ends on May 12. India begins its World Cup campaign against South Africa in Southampton on June 5.

Dhoni to take rest before World Cup if back trouble worsens

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