<p>The return of cricket’s biggest celebration, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl-2020">Indian Premier League (IPL)</a>, has got the cricket superstars bantering on cricket after a sabbatical, and it is not just about on-field action that is being referred to here. On Thursday, Hardik Pandya and AB de Villiers got into a fun word-war on Twitter. It all began when Mumbai Indians all-rounder Hardik Pandya tried trolling MS Dhoni on Twitter for getting out in ‘Gully Cricket’ by gully rules.</p>

<p>He posted a 20-second video featuring MS Dhoni for&nbsp;Dream11’s latest campaign, where MSD is playing gully cricket with youngsters and hits a brilliant four; but gets out, as the ball directly hits a scooter. And by gully cricket rules, a direct shot on the scooter is declared out. Pandya took to Twitter and jokingly wrote to MS Dhoni:</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-trivia-top-records-of-thala-ms-dhoni-in-the-tournament-328205" hreflang="en">IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament</a></strong><br />
<br />
<i>‘’@msdhoni Two-wheeler pe laga toh four?!! Hahahahaha! #YahanSabSameHai&nbsp;#YeApnaGameHai #Dream11IPL @Dream11“</i></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="tl">.<a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a>, Scooter pe laga toh four?!! Hahahahaha! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YahanSabSameHai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YahanSabSameHai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YeApnaGameHai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YeApnaGameHai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dream11IPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dream11IPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Dream11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dream11</a><a href="https://t.co/uaTLbG5VBy">https://t.co/uaTLbG5VBy</a></p>
— hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7/status/1306450390901092352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Much to Pandya’s surprise, RCB’s attacking batsman AB de Villiers came to MSD’s defence. ABD shared another 20-second video featuring Pandya where he hits a six, but in turn loses the ball in a gully cricket match, and is asked to spare 20 Rs. for the lost ball. AB de Villiers posted:</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-king-kohli-to-afghan-spin-wizard-five-to-watch-in-ipl-2020-328330">From King Kohli to Afghan spin wizard: five to watch in IPL 2020</a></strong></p>

<p><i>“Need 20 bucks change @hardikpandya7? #20RupeesLoan #YahanSabSameHai #YeApnaGameHai #Dream11IPL @Dream11”</i></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Need 20 bucks change <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hardikpandya7</a> ?😂😂😂 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/20RupeesLoan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#20RupeesLoan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YahanSabSameHai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YahanSabSameHai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YeApnaGameHai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YeApnaGameHai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dream11IPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dream11IPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Dream11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dream11</a><a href="https://t.co/KLPs2qByAH">https://t.co/KLPs2qByAH</a></p>
— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17/status/1306497443299815425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>These videos are based on the newly launched campaign by&nbsp;Dream11&nbsp;called&nbsp;<i>‘Ye Apna Game Hain’</i>.</p>

<p>Hardik Pandya is all set to make a comeback post his lengthy injury layoff. Pandya's form will be crucial for defending champions MI. All eyes will be set on the screen, as retired Indian skipper, MSD, will be seen in action after a long break. Whereas, AB de Villiers will look forward to helping RCB win their first IPL trophy since the league's inception in tough weather conditions.</p>


The return of cricket’s biggest celebration, Indian Premier League (IPL), has got the cricket superstars bantering on cricket after a sabbatical, and it is not just about on-field action that is being referred to here.

The return of cricket’s biggest celebration, Indian Premier League (IPL), has got the cricket superstars bantering on cricket after a sabbatical, and it is not just about on-field action that is being referred to here. On Thursday, Hardik Pandya and AB de Villiers got into a fun word-war on Twitter. It all began when Mumbai Indians all-rounder Hardik Pandya tried trolling MS Dhoni on Twitter for getting out in ‘Gully Cricket’ by gully rules. He posted a 20-second video featuring MS Dhoni for Dream11’s latest campaign, where MSD is playing gully cricket with youngsters and hits a brilliant four; but gets out, as the ball directly hits a scooter. And by gully cricket rules, a direct shot on the scooter is declared out. Pandya took to Twitter and jokingly wrote to MS Dhoni: ALSO READ: IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament ‘’@msdhoni Two-wheeler pe laga toh four?!! Hahahahaha! #YahanSabSameHai #YeApnaGameHai #Dream11IPL @Dream11“ .@msdhoni, Scooter pe laga toh four?!! Hahahahaha! #YahanSabSameHai #YeApnaGameHai #Dream11IPL @Dream11https://t.co/uaTLbG5VBy — hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) September 17, 2020 × Much to Pandya’s surprise, RCB’s attacking batsman AB de Villiers came to MSD’s defence. ABD shared another 20-second video featuring Pandya where he hits a six, but in turn loses the ball in a gully cricket match, and is asked to spare 20 Rs. for the lost ball. AB de Villiers posted: ALSO READ: From King Kohli to Afghan spin wizard: five to watch in IPL 2020 “Need 20 bucks change @hardikpandya7? #20RupeesLoan #YahanSabSameHai #YeApnaGameHai #Dream11IPL @Dream11” Need 20 bucks change @hardikpandya7 ?😂😂😂 #20RupeesLoan #YahanSabSameHai #YeApnaGameHai #Dream11IPL @Dream11https://t.co/KLPs2qByAH — AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) September 17, 2020 × These videos are based on the newly launched campaign by Dream11 called ‘Ye Apna Game Hain’. Hardik Pandya is all set to make a comeback post his lengthy injury layoff. Pandya's form will be crucial for defending champions MI. All eyes will be set on the screen, as retired Indian skipper, MSD, will be seen in action after a long break. Whereas, AB de Villiers will look forward to helping RCB win their first IPL trophy since the league's inception in tough weather conditions.

IPL 2020: Hardik Pandya Jokingly trolls MS Dhoni, ABD; reminds him not to mess with ‘Thala’

IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament

<p>India's Mahendra Singh Dhoni may have signed off from international duties but he'll be at the heart of the action in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League</a> -- a tournament he helped inspire, and where he remains a towering figure.</p>

<p>Dhoni, who has led the Chennai Super Kings to three titles and five runner-up finishes in the IPL's 12 editions, will feature in the opening match on Saturday against the Mumbai Indians, the defending champions.</p>

<p>The game comes more than a year after the 39-year-old last played for India in their semi-final loss to New Zealand in the 2019 World Cup.</p>

<p>After much speculation, the wicketkeeper-batsman finally announced the end of his 16-year international career last month.</p>

<p>And without the pressure of having to play well to keep his place in the national team, the flamboyant Dhoni is expected to shine in UAE, the IPL's temporary home as India battles a rampant coronavirus problem.</p>

<p>"He is very fit and I believe he is working very hard on it. Plus he has stopped playing international cricket so there will be less burden on his body," Saba Karim, another former India wicketkeeper, told AFP.</p>

<p>"Global cricket still needs an icon like MS Dhoni to continue."</p>

<p>Dhoni's captaincy began with India winning the inaugural T20 World Cup title in 2007, a success that triggered the birth of the IPL -- the world's most popular and richest cricket league --&nbsp;a year later.</p>

<p>"Dhoni played an instrumental role in kick-starting the IPL because of the way he brought a different dimension to the shorter format of the game because of his aggressive side with the willow," Karim said.</p>

<p>"Also with his calm exterior behind the stumps."</p>

<p>Dhoni, once hailed as the world's best finisher, has played 190 IPL matches, scoring 4,432 runs including 23 half-centuries.</p>

<p>An exemplary leader with fast glovework, Dhoni has made Chennai one of IPL's most loved franchises with almost 200,000 people following the team's fan club on Twitter.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2>- 'Soul of Chennai' -</h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chennai chief executive Kasi Viswanathan says Dhoni remains key to the team's plans and they expect him to keep playing till the 2022 edition.</p>

<p>The team has been under scrutiny after arriving in the UAE last month with two players testing positive for the coronavirus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Senior batsman Suresh Raina and veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh later opted out of the competition.</p>

<p>"I swear if Dhoni pulls out of IPL, there's no IPL for me this year!" a Twitter user wrote after the withdrawals.</p>

<p>Cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra said Dhoni is "the biggest strength of the team and the entire franchise is dependent on him".&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He is the soul of Chennai Super Kings. As long as he is there, CSK's heart keeps beating and they move forward. MS Dhoni, the player and the captain, has a great impact," Chopra&nbsp;said on his YouTube show.</p>

<p>"Dhoni is going to rule the roost once again as a captain, as a batsman."</p>

<p>Chennai and Dhoni were plunged into controversy in 2015, when the team were banned from the IPL for two years for match-fixing.</p>

<p>But Dhoni and his team -- which includes many players aged over 35, including Australia's Shane Watson and South African Imran Tahir -- came back with a bang.</p>

<p>Labelled 'Dad's Army' by the media, Chennai returned to lift the title in 2018 and establish themselves as one of the most consistent teams in IPL history.</p>

<p>"Dhoni is Chennai, Chennai is Dhoni. If Dhoni is doing well. Chennai is doing well," veteran commentator Harsha Bhogle said on Cricbuzz.com.</p>


India's Mahendra Singh Dhoni may have signed off from international duties but he'll be at the heart of the action in the Indian Premier League -- a tournament he helped inspire, and where he remains a towering figure.

India's Mahendra Singh Dhoni may have signed off from international duties but he'll be at the heart of the action in the Indian Premier League -- a tournament he helped inspire, and where he remains a towering figure. Dhoni, who has led the Chennai Super Kings to three titles and five runner-up finishes in the IPL's 12 editions, will feature in the opening match on Saturday against the Mumbai Indians, the defending champions. The game comes more than a year after the 39-year-old last played for India in their semi-final loss to New Zealand in the 2019 World Cup. After much speculation, the wicketkeeper-batsman finally announced the end of his 16-year international career last month. And without the pressure of having to play well to keep his place in the national team, the flamboyant Dhoni is expected to shine in UAE, the IPL's temporary home as India battles a rampant coronavirus problem. "He is very fit and I believe he is working very hard on it. Plus he has stopped playing international cricket so there will be less burden on his body," Saba Karim, another former India wicketkeeper, told AFP. "Global cricket still needs an icon like MS Dhoni to continue." Dhoni's captaincy began with India winning the inaugural T20 World Cup title in 2007, a success that triggered the birth of the IPL -- the world's most popular and richest cricket league -- a year later. "Dhoni played an instrumental role in kick-starting the IPL because of the way he brought a different dimension to the shorter format of the game because of his aggressive side with the willow," Karim said. "Also with his calm exterior behind the stumps." Dhoni, once hailed as the world's best finisher, has played 190 IPL matches, scoring 4,432 runs including 23 half-centuries. An exemplary leader with fast glovework, Dhoni has made Chennai one of IPL's most loved franchises with almost 200,000 people following the team's fan club on Twitter. - 'Soul of Chennai' - Chennai chief executive Kasi Viswanathan says Dhoni remains key to the team's plans and they expect him to keep playing till the 2022 edition. The team has been under scrutiny after arriving in the UAE last month with two players testing positive for the coronavirus. Senior batsman Suresh Raina and veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh later opted out of the competition. "I swear if Dhoni pulls out of IPL, there's no IPL for me this year!" a Twitter user wrote after the withdrawals. Cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra said Dhoni is "the biggest strength of the team and the entire franchise is dependent on him". "He is the soul of Chennai Super Kings. As long as he is there, CSK's heart keeps beating and they move forward. MS Dhoni, the player and the captain, has a great impact," Chopra said on his YouTube show. "Dhoni is going to rule the roost once again as a captain, as a batsman." Chennai and Dhoni were plunged into controversy in 2015, when the team were banned from the IPL for two years for match-fixing. But Dhoni and his team -- which includes many players aged over 35, including Australia's Shane Watson and South African Imran Tahir -- came back with a bang. Labelled 'Dad's Army' by the media, Chennai returned to lift the title in 2018 and establish themselves as one of the most consistent teams in IPL history. "Dhoni is Chennai, Chennai is Dhoni. If Dhoni is doing well. Chennai is doing well," veteran commentator Harsha Bhogle said on Cricbuzz.com.

Goodbye India, hello IPL: Dhoni set to 'rule roost' in UAE

<p>Chennai Super Kings were seen gearing up for their opening clash against Mumbai Indians.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-face-off-intense-rivalry-between-mumbai-indians-and-chennai-super-kings-327555" hreflang="en">IPL Face-off: Intense rivalry between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings</a></strong></p>

<p>Despite significant absentees in the squad, the star players in the team were seen sweating it out on the training ground.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A complete <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YelloveGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YelloveGame</a> when the Kings Clash! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> 🦁💛 <a href="https://t.co/QxRfeqXmdP">pic.twitter.com/QxRfeqXmdP</a></p>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1305849020821180416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>CSK skipper MS Dhoni, also known as Thala, was seen donning wicket-keeping gloves during the practice match. MS Dhoni's return to the cricket pitch is the most anticipated moment in this year's IPL.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The team has faced many setbacks even before the season has started, with over a dozen members testing positive to Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh pulling out of the tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-who-are-the-favourites-in-mi-vs-csk-opener-gautam-gambhir-opines-327724" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Who are the favourites in MI vs CSK opener? Gautam Gambhir opines</a></p>

<p>However, Players like Faf Du Plessis, Shane Watson and Dwayne Bravo were seen during the practice match. Head coach Stephen Fleming and batting coach Mike Hussey were seen during the training too.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Murali Vijay, who is likely to fill Suresh Raina's shoes, was seen playing during the practice match. &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p>Chennai will begin their IPL campaign vying for a fourth trophy, whereas, defending champions Mumbai Indians will be looking to extend their title-record to five.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batsman Ruturaj Gaikwad continues to remain in quarantine as he is yet to test negative for COVID-19 after 13-14 days in self-isolation.</p>

<p>Gaikwad was among the two players tested positive for coronavirus in the CSK camp with the other player being Deepak Chahar, who has tested negative for the virus and started training with the rest of Super Kings squad.</p>


Chennai Super Kings were seen gearing up for their opening clash against Mumbai Indians. IN PICS | IPL Face-off: Intense rivalry between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings Despite significant absentees in the squad, the star players in the team were seen sweating it out on the training ground.

Chennai Super Kings were seen gearing up for their opening clash against Mumbai Indians. IN PICS | IPL Face-off: Intense rivalry between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings Despite significant absentees in the squad, the star players in the team were seen sweating it out on the training ground. A complete #YelloveGame when the Kings Clash! #WhistlePodu 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/QxRfeqXmdP — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) September 15, 2020 × CSK skipper MS Dhoni, also known as Thala, was seen donning wicket-keeping gloves during the practice match. MS Dhoni's return to the cricket pitch is the most anticipated moment in this year's IPL. The team has faced many setbacks even before the season has started, with over a dozen members testing positive to Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh pulling out of the tournament. Also read: IPL 2020: Who are the favourites in MI vs CSK opener? Gautam Gambhir opines However, Players like Faf Du Plessis, Shane Watson and Dwayne Bravo were seen during the practice match. Head coach Stephen Fleming and batting coach Mike Hussey were seen during the training too. Murali Vijay, who is likely to fill Suresh Raina's shoes, was seen playing during the practice match. Chennai will begin their IPL campaign vying for a fourth trophy, whereas, defending champions Mumbai Indians will be looking to extend their title-record to five. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batsman Ruturaj Gaikwad continues to remain in quarantine as he is yet to test negative for COVID-19 after 13-14 days in self-isolation. Gaikwad was among the two players tested positive for coronavirus in the CSK camp with the other player being Deepak Chahar, who has tested negative for the virus and started training with the rest of Super Kings squad.

Watch: MS Dhoni and Co. gear up for IPL 2020 with a practice match

IPL Face-off: Intense rivalry between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings

<p>Piyush Chawla will be seen playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> and the veteran leg-spinner is excited to team-up with MS Dhoni after many years. In IPL 2020 auctions, CSK shelled out a heavy INR 6.75 crore on Chawla and it would be interesting to see how he fares after spending successful years with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).</p>

<p>CSK have one of the strongest spin attacks among all the franchises and their bowling attack could help them reach the playoffs again. Chawla, who has fallen down the pecking order when it comes to international cricket but continues to be a force in IPL 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“If a captain is believing in you, what more do you want?” Chawla told Firstpost.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/star-studded-commentary-panel-for-ipl-2020-announced-no-place-for-sanjay-manjrekar-heres-full-list-327478" hreflang="en">Star-studded commentary panel for IPL 2020 announced, no place for Sanjay Manjrekar - here's full list</a></strong></p>

<p>“Definitely (excited about the reunion with Dhoni). Koi bhi leg spinner ko chahiye ke unko accha captain mile (Any leg spinner would want a good captain). I am getting Dhoni bhai, world’s best captain, aur kya chahiye (what more do you want)?”</p>

<p>Chawla picked up 62 wickets off 70 matches for KKR in his six-year stay with the two-time IPL winners. Chawla is of the view that Dhoni gives freedom to the bowler and is always ready to help a player out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s always the same with Dhoni bhai as well. He gives freedom to the bowler, whatever you feel, go with it,” he said. “He is always helping you out. And when he feels, this kind of thing might happen, then he gives suggestions to the bowler that let’s do this.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-hope-to-carry-domestic-form-into-ipl-2020-says-kings-xi-punjabs-mandeep-singh-327464" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Hope to carry domestic form into IPL 2020, says Kings XI Punjab's Mandeep Singh</a></strong></p>

<p>Whenever he thought that the bowler would need something in the game, he would advise from behind the wickets. So that is a very big help.”</p>

<p>The Indian Premier League is set to kick-start from September 19 with the final scheduled for November 10 in the UAE.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Piyush Chawla will be seen playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 and the veteran leg-spinner is excited to team-up with MS Dhoni after many years.

Piyush Chawla will be seen playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 and the veteran leg-spinner is excited to team-up with MS Dhoni after many years. In IPL 2020 auctions, CSK shelled out a heavy INR 6.75 crore on Chawla and it would be interesting to see how he fares after spending successful years with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). CSK have one of the strongest spin attacks among all the franchises and their bowling attack could help them reach the playoffs again. Chawla, who has fallen down the pecking order when it comes to international cricket but continues to be a force in IPL 2020. “If a captain is believing in you, what more do you want?” Chawla told Firstpost. ALSO READ: Star-studded commentary panel for IPL 2020 announced, no place for Sanjay Manjrekar - here's full list “Definitely (excited about the reunion with Dhoni). Koi bhi leg spinner ko chahiye ke unko accha captain mile (Any leg spinner would want a good captain). I am getting Dhoni bhai, world’s best captain, aur kya chahiye (what more do you want)?” Chawla picked up 62 wickets off 70 matches for KKR in his six-year stay with the two-time IPL winners. Chawla is of the view that Dhoni gives freedom to the bowler and is always ready to help a player out. “It’s always the same with Dhoni bhai as well. He gives freedom to the bowler, whatever you feel, go with it,” he said. “He is always helping you out. And when he feels, this kind of thing might happen, then he gives suggestions to the bowler that let’s do this. ALSO READ: Exclusive: Hope to carry domestic form into IPL 2020, says Kings XI Punjab's Mandeep Singh Whenever he thought that the bowler would need something in the game, he would advise from behind the wickets. So that is a very big help.” The Indian Premier League is set to kick-start from September 19 with the final scheduled for November 10 in the UAE.

I am getting Dhoni bhai: Piyush Chawla ecstatic to pair up with 'world's best captain' in IPL 2020

<p>Former Australian Spinner Brad Hogg on Monday has named the players in his IPL 2020 XI. Surprisingly Hogg missed out on some big names while doing so.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/great-to-be-back-aussie-legend-shane-warne-returns-to-rajasthan-royals-as-a-mentor-327280" hreflang="en">'Great to be back': Legend Shane Warne returns to Rajasthan Royals as mentor</a></p>

<p>Hogg did not mention CSK skipper MS Dhoni, who has won three titles with Chennai and now aims at fourth for the team. Royal Challengers Bangalore's AB de Villiers and Kings XI Punjab's Chris Gayle also were not included in the XI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hogg first talked about the players who made it to the list and then explained why these three big cricketing stalwarts missed out from the list.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“First up, David Warner from Sunrisers Hyderabad. Consistent performer gets his team off to great starts and gets his runs at a good click. Opening the batting with Warner is Rohit Sharma. He is dynamite in IPL cricket. Best opening batsman in white-ball cricket around the world. You got to have him in this list.</p>

<p>“Coming in at No.3 is Virat Kohli from RCB. If you lose an early wicket, he just comes out, utilizes his timing to pierce the infield in the powerplay. During the middle-overs he rotates the strike but also finds the boundary and quite consistently,” Hogg said.</p>

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<p>“At No.4, the captain of this team Kane Williamson. He has got a good head on his shoulders, great ambassador for the game and he has got a good strike-rate in the middle overs of a 140. If the team is on the back foot with a couple of early wickets, he is the man with the composure to get the momentum back in the batting stake. At No. 5 is Rishabh Pant. I like the way he puts his team first. If he needs to find the boundary from ball one, he will find it for you. He backs his ability and he will be the keeper as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“At No. 6 is Andre Russell from KKR. He will be coming no earlier than the 12th over. I just want him to finish off the innings with his power hitting. But also his all-round ability with the ball. He can bowl the couple of fast powerful overs at the middle of the opposition innings. At No.7 comes in Ravindra Jadeja. I can utilize him with the new ball as well as in the middle overs where he is quite economical. Also, his fielding is exceptional. Best fielder in IPL cricket and he can also handle the bat.</p>

<p>“At No.8 is Sunil Narine from KKR. Yes he can bowl in the powerplay, the death overs as well as in the middle. And he is very handy with the bat as well. Now coming in at No.9 in Chahal. I love the way he has carried the RCB attack for a number of years. He is very economical and picks up wickets in those middle overs,” he further went on.</p>

<p>“At No.10 is Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Picks wickets up with the new ball, swings it both ways. But also very economical in the death overs. Bhuvneshwar Kumar will be supported by the No.11 in this team who is from MI. Its Bumrah. He doesn’t need any introduction. He can bowl in any phase of the game. He is the one you turn to when you need a breackthrough,” Hogg added.</p>

<p>“Now, I haven’t got MS Dhoni, or AB de Villiers, or Chris Gayle in there. They are a little bit long in the tooth, a little bit old. But, they can turn things around, and be my final XI at the end of the tournament when I go back and revisit this vlog,” Hogg concluded.</p>

<p>Brad Hogg's IPL 2020 XI: David Warner, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson (C), Rishabh Pant, Andre Russell, Ravindra Jadeja, Sunil Narine, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah.</p>


Former Australian Spinner Brad Hogg on Monday has named the players in his IPL 2020 XI. Surprisingly Hogg missed out on some big names while doing so. Also read: 'Great to be back': Legend Shane Warne returns to Rajasthan Royals as mentor Hogg did not mention CSK skipper MS Dhoni, who has won three titles with Chennai and now aims at fourth for the team.

Former Australian Spinner Brad Hogg on Monday has named the players in his IPL 2020 XI. Surprisingly Hogg missed out on some big names while doing so. Also read: 'Great to be back': Legend Shane Warne returns to Rajasthan Royals as mentor Hogg did not mention CSK skipper MS Dhoni, who has won three titles with Chennai and now aims at fourth for the team. Royal Challengers Bangalore's AB de Villiers and Kings XI Punjab's Chris Gayle also were not included in the XI. Hogg first talked about the players who made it to the list and then explained why these three big cricketing stalwarts missed out from the list. “First up, David Warner from Sunrisers Hyderabad. Consistent performer gets his team off to great starts and gets his runs at a good click. Opening the batting with Warner is Rohit Sharma. He is dynamite in IPL cricket. Best opening batsman in white-ball cricket around the world. You got to have him in this list. “Coming in at No.3 is Virat Kohli from RCB. If you lose an early wicket, he just comes out, utilizes his timing to pierce the infield in the powerplay. During the middle-overs he rotates the strike but also finds the boundary and quite consistently,” Hogg said. × “At No.4, the captain of this team Kane Williamson. He has got a good head on his shoulders, great ambassador for the game and he has got a good strike-rate in the middle overs of a 140. If the team is on the back foot with a couple of early wickets, he is the man with the composure to get the momentum back in the batting stake. At No. 5 is Rishabh Pant. I like the way he puts his team first. If he needs to find the boundary from ball one, he will find it for you. He backs his ability and he will be the keeper as well. “At No. 6 is Andre Russell from KKR. He will be coming no earlier than the 12th over. I just want him to finish off the innings with his power hitting. But also his all-round ability with the ball. He can bowl the couple of fast powerful overs at the middle of the opposition innings. At No.7 comes in Ravindra Jadeja. I can utilize him with the new ball as well as in the middle overs where he is quite economical. Also, his fielding is exceptional. Best fielder in IPL cricket and he can also handle the bat. “At No.8 is Sunil Narine from KKR. Yes he can bowl in the powerplay, the death overs as well as in the middle. And he is very handy with the bat as well. Now coming in at No.9 in Chahal. I love the way he has carried the RCB attack for a number of years. He is very economical and picks up wickets in those middle overs,” he further went on. “At No.10 is Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Picks wickets up with the new ball, swings it both ways. But also very economical in the death overs. Bhuvneshwar Kumar will be supported by the No.11 in this team who is from MI. Its Bumrah. He doesn’t need any introduction. He can bowl in any phase of the game. He is the one you turn to when you need a breackthrough,” Hogg added. “Now, I haven’t got MS Dhoni, or AB de Villiers, or Chris Gayle in there. They are a little bit long in the tooth, a little bit old. But, they can turn things around, and be my final XI at the end of the tournament when I go back and revisit this vlog,” Hogg concluded. Brad Hogg's IPL 2020 XI: David Warner, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson (C), Rishabh Pant, Andre Russell, Ravindra Jadeja, Sunil Narine, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah.

Brad Hogg excludes Dhoni, de Villiers and Gayle from his IPL 2020 XI; explains why

<p>Former Indian captain Anil Kumble has said that MS Dhoni will give his 100 per cent for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> despite the two-time World Cup announcing his international retirement in August.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kumble cited his own experience of playing in IPL after announcing retirement as he said knowing Dhoni, he will give his full effort to do the best for the Super Kings.</p>

<p>"Knowing MS, he will give his 100 percent. Even when I played the IPL, the second season, I had retired from international cricket," Kumble was quoted by PTI.</p>

<p>Kumble was appointed as the head coach of Kings XI Punjab and will be taking the charge to help the franchise win their first IPL title.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-leaves-for-dubai-to-oversee-preparations-326190" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: BCCI president Sourav Ganguly leaves for Dubai to oversee preparations</a></strong></p>

<p>However, Kumble batted for more Indian coaches in IPL as he said having one Indian as head coach in entire IPL isn’t the true reflection of the resources and quality of Indian cricket while adding he would want to see many Indians being part of IPL as head coaches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I would like to see more Indian coaches in the IPL. It is not a true reflection of the Indian resources. I would want to see many Indians being part of the IPL as head coaches," he added.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2020-from-raina-to-malinga-top-players-who-have-pulled-out-of-the-tournament-326040" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: From Raina to Malinga - Top players who have pulled out of the tournament</a></strong></p>

<p>"It is a bit of an irony one Indian as head coach. I think at some point of time there will be a lot more Indian coaches.”<br />
Meanwhile, Kings XI Punjab, led by swashbuckling KL Rahul, are set to commence their IPL 2020 campaign against Delhi Capitals on</p>

<p>September 20 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The 13th edition of the Indian Premier League starts on September 19 and the final will be played on November 10.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Former Indian captain Anil Kumble has said that MS Dhoni will give his 100 per cent for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 despite the two-time World Cup announcing his international retirement in August.

Former Indian captain Anil Kumble has said that MS Dhoni will give his 100 per cent for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 despite the two-time World Cup announcing his international retirement in August. Kumble cited his own experience of playing in IPL after announcing retirement as he said knowing Dhoni, he will give his full effort to do the best for the Super Kings. "Knowing MS, he will give his 100 percent. Even when I played the IPL, the second season, I had retired from international cricket," Kumble was quoted by PTI. Kumble was appointed as the head coach of Kings XI Punjab and will be taking the charge to help the franchise win their first IPL title. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: BCCI president Sourav Ganguly leaves for Dubai to oversee preparations However, Kumble batted for more Indian coaches in IPL as he said having one Indian as head coach in entire IPL isn’t the true reflection of the resources and quality of Indian cricket while adding he would want to see many Indians being part of IPL as head coaches. "I would like to see more Indian coaches in the IPL. It is not a true reflection of the Indian resources. I would want to see many Indians being part of the IPL as head coaches," he added. IN PICS | IPL 2020: From Raina to Malinga - Top players who have pulled out of the tournament "It is a bit of an irony one Indian as head coach. I think at some point of time there will be a lot more Indian coaches.” Meanwhile, Kings XI Punjab, led by swashbuckling KL Rahul, are set to commence their IPL 2020 campaign against Delhi Capitals on September 20 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The 13th edition of the Indian Premier League starts on September 19 and the final will be played on November 10.

IPL 2020: MS Dhoni will give 100 per cent for CSK despite international retirement, says Kumble

<p>A letter of appreciation was sent to ace India cricketer Suresh Raina by the PM NArendra Modi’s office to laud their achievements in the game of cricket on August 19.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-shares-heartfelt-letter-penned-by-pm-narendra-modi-after-retirement-call-321898"><strong>Also read: MS Dhoni shares heartfelt letter penned by PM Narendra Modi after retirement call</strong></a><br />
<br />
Raina announced his retirement on August 15, along with captain cool MS Dhoni, bringing end to a golden era. Wishes poured in from around the world, after two highly successful careers culminated after serving the nation for so long.<br />
<br />
<strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-and-i-hugged-and-cried-a-lot-after-announcing-retirement-suresh-raina-321124" hreflang="en">MS Dhoni and I hugged and cried a lot after announcing retirement: Suresh Raina</a></strong></p>

<p>"I do not want to use the word 'retirement' because you are too young and energetic to 'retire'," PM Modi, who also wrote a letter of appreciation to Dhoni, said in a two-page note to Raina, which he posted on his Twitter page on Friday.</p>

<p>"During your cricketing career, you sometimes faced setbacks including injuries but every time you overcame those challenges, thanks to your tenacity," he said.<br />
<br />
Raina, on his part, thanked the Prime Minister.</p>

<p>"When we play, we give our blood &amp; sweat for the nation. No better appreciation than being loved by the people of this country and even more by the country's PM. Thank you @narendramodi ji for your words of appreciation &amp; best wishes. I accept them with gratitude. Jai Hind," the cricketer tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When we play, we give our blood &amp; sweat for the nation. No better appreciation than being loved by the people of this country and even more by the country’s PM. Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji for your words of appreciation &amp; best wishes. I accept them with gratitude. Jai Hind!🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/l0DIeQSFh5">pic.twitter.com/l0DIeQSFh5</a></p>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1296651450974498817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>In the letter, Modi recollected how much he enjoyed Raina's most famous innings of 34 not out in a tricky run-chase against a formidable Australia in the 2011 World Cup quarter-final at Motera.</p>

<p>"India can never forget your inspiring role during the 2011 World Cup especially during the later matches. I saw you live in action at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad, during the Quarter Final against Australia. Your anchoring innings had a big role to play in our team's victory.</p>

<p>"I can confidently say that most fans will miss your elegant cover drives, one which I was lucky to witness that day," said the PM, who was back then the Chief Minister of Gujarat.</p>

<p>The PM also described Raina as the perfect team-man who enjoyed others' successes.</p>

<p>"...Suresh Raina will always be synonymous with team spirit. You played not for personal glory but for the glory of your team and the glory of India.<br />
<br />
"Your enthusiasm on the field was infectious and we could all witness that you would be among the first and most animated players to celebrate the fall of opposing team's wicket," the PM wrote.</p>

<p>A bonafide IPL legend, Raina was praised by the Prime Minister for his prowess in the T20 format.</p>

<p>"As a batsman, you especially distinguished yourself across all mediums and particularly in the newest form of the game, the T20 cricket. This is not an easy format.</p>

<p>"In tune with our times, it requires quick fixes in double quick time. Again your promptness and speed were assets for this form," Modi said, lavishing praise on the IPL's most prolific batsman.</p>

<p>His sharp fielding was also acknowledged in the Prime Minister's appreciation letter.</p>

<p>"Your fielding was exemplary and inspiring. Some of the best catches in recent international cricket have your distinctive imprint. It would take days to count the number of runs you saved with your alertness on the field."</p>

<p>The PM also praised Raina for his participation in social initiatives like 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan' and the cause of women's empowerment.</p>

<p>"I am glad you are attached to India's cultural roots and proud of deepening youth's connect with our glorious ethos as well as value systems," Modi said.</p>

<p>"I am confident you will have an equally fruitful and successful innings in whatever you wish to pursue in times to come."<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from PTI)</em></p>


A letter of appreciation was sent to ace India cricketer Suresh Raina by the PM NArendra Modi’s office to laud their achievements in the game of cricket on August 19.

A letter of appreciation was sent to ace India cricketer Suresh Raina by the PM NArendra Modi’s office to laud their achievements in the game of cricket on August 19. Also read: MS Dhoni shares heartfelt letter penned by PM Narendra Modi after retirement call Raina announced his retirement on August 15, along with captain cool MS Dhoni, bringing end to a golden era. Wishes poured in from around the world, after two highly successful careers culminated after serving the nation for so long. ALSO READ: MS Dhoni and I hugged and cried a lot after announcing retirement: Suresh Raina "I do not want to use the word 'retirement' because you are too young and energetic to 'retire'," PM Modi, who also wrote a letter of appreciation to Dhoni, said in a two-page note to Raina, which he posted on his Twitter page on Friday. "During your cricketing career, you sometimes faced setbacks including injuries but every time you overcame those challenges, thanks to your tenacity," he said. Raina, on his part, thanked the Prime Minister. "When we play, we give our blood & sweat for the nation. No better appreciation than being loved by the people of this country and even more by the country's PM. Thank you @narendramodi ji for your words of appreciation & best wishes. I accept them with gratitude. Jai Hind," the cricketer tweeted. When we play, we give our blood & sweat for the nation. No better appreciation than being loved by the people of this country and even more by the country’s PM. Thank you @narendramodi ji for your words of appreciation & best wishes. I accept them with gratitude. Jai Hind!🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/l0DIeQSFh5 — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) August 21, 2020 × In the letter, Modi recollected how much he enjoyed Raina's most famous innings of 34 not out in a tricky run-chase against a formidable Australia in the 2011 World Cup quarter-final at Motera. "India can never forget your inspiring role during the 2011 World Cup especially during the later matches. I saw you live in action at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad, during the Quarter Final against Australia. Your anchoring innings had a big role to play in our team's victory. "I can confidently say that most fans will miss your elegant cover drives, one which I was lucky to witness that day," said the PM, who was back then the Chief Minister of Gujarat. The PM also described Raina as the perfect team-man who enjoyed others' successes. "...Suresh Raina will always be synonymous with team spirit. You played not for personal glory but for the glory of your team and the glory of India. "Your enthusiasm on the field was infectious and we could all witness that you would be among the first and most animated players to celebrate the fall of opposing team's wicket," the PM wrote. A bonafide IPL legend, Raina was praised by the Prime Minister for his prowess in the T20 format. "As a batsman, you especially distinguished yourself across all mediums and particularly in the newest form of the game, the T20 cricket. This is not an easy format. "In tune with our times, it requires quick fixes in double quick time. Again your promptness and speed were assets for this form," Modi said, lavishing praise on the IPL's most prolific batsman. His sharp fielding was also acknowledged in the Prime Minister's appreciation letter. "Your fielding was exemplary and inspiring. Some of the best catches in recent international cricket have your distinctive imprint. It would take days to count the number of runs you saved with your alertness on the field." The PM also praised Raina for his participation in social initiatives like 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan' and the cause of women's empowerment. "I am glad you are attached to India's cultural roots and proud of deepening youth's connect with our glorious ethos as well as value systems," Modi said. "I am confident you will have an equally fruitful and successful innings in whatever you wish to pursue in times to come." (With inputs from PTI)

'You are way too young and energetic to retire': PM Modi sends letter of appreciation to Suresh Raina

<p>Mahendra Singh Dhoni on Thursday took to social media platform Twitter to share a heartfelt letter written by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the former Indian captain announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket on August 15, 2020.</p>

<p>“An Artist,Soldier and Sportsperson what they crave for is appreciation, that their hard work and sacrifice is getting noticed and appreciated by everyone.thanks PM @narendramodi for your appreciation and good wishes,” Dhoni tweeted on Thursday in what was his first tweet since February 14, 2020.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An Artist,Soldier and Sportsperson what they crave for is appreciation, that their hard work and sacrifice is getting noticed and appreciated by everyone.thanks PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> for your appreciation and good wishes. <a href="https://t.co/T0naCT7mO7">pic.twitter.com/T0naCT7mO7</a></p>
— Mahendra Singh Dhoni (@msdhoni) <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni/status/1296362680580636672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-and-i-hugged-and-cried-a-lot-after-announcing-retirement-suresh-raina-321124" hreflang="en">MS Dhoni and I hugged and cried a lot after announcing retirement: Suresh Raina</a></strong></p>

<p>While the entire nation was coming to terms that Dhoni, India’s most successful captain, won’t be seen playing in the Blue jersey again, PM Modi penned a heartfelt letter to the iconic wicketkeeper-batsman. &nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi congratulated Dhoni for a terrific and trophy-laden&nbsp;career while thanking him for his incredible contribution to India. He then recalled some of the most iconic moments of Dhoni’s career, especially the 2011 World Cup final and 2007 World T20 while lauding him for inspiring many to work towards their dreams. Finally, PM Modi wished Dhoni the very best his future endeavours.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"Where we come from does not matter as long as we know where we are headed..." From Narendra to Mahendra...a glorious tribute to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thala</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> from Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a>. 🦁💛 <a href="https://t.co/H4oBLaidA7">https://t.co/H4oBLaidA7</a></p>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1296374811615047682?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Dhoni officially called it quits from international cricket as India celebrated its 74th Independence Day. The two-time World Cup-winning captain took to Instagram to share an emotional video which covered his entire cricketing journey with the Men in Blue.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ms-dhoni-announces-retirement-check-out-some-of-his-coolest-records-311213">MS Dhoni announces retirement! Check out some of his coolest records</a></strong></p>

<p>"Thanks. Thanks a lot for ur love and support thorughout.from 1929 hrs consider me as retired" - Dhoni captioned the video on his Instagram handle.</p>

<p>Dhoni scored 4876 runs in Test cricket (90 matches) at an average of 38.09 with six centuries and 33 half-centuries but it was the shorter formats of the game where the world witnessed the best of his talent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 350 ODIs, Dhoni smashed 10,773 runs at an incredible average of 50.57 with 10 tons and 73 half-centuries to his name. In 98 T20Is, he hammered 1617 runs at a strike-rate of 126.13 in what has been a dream ride for Dhoni and Team India.</p>

<p>Dhoni will be seen playing for Chennai Supers Kings in IPL 2020 starting September 19 in the UAE.</p>


Mahendra Singh Dhoni on Thursday took to social media platform Twitter to share a heartfelt letter written by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the former Indian captain announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket on August 15, 2020.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni on Thursday took to social media platform Twitter to share a heartfelt letter written by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the former Indian captain announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket on August 15, 2020. “An Artist,Soldier and Sportsperson what they crave for is appreciation, that their hard work and sacrifice is getting noticed and appreciated by everyone.thanks PM @narendramodi for your appreciation and good wishes,” Dhoni tweeted on Thursday in what was his first tweet since February 14, 2020. An Artist,Soldier and Sportsperson what they crave for is appreciation, that their hard work and sacrifice is getting noticed and appreciated by everyone.thanks PM @narendramodi for your appreciation and good wishes. pic.twitter.com/T0naCT7mO7 — Mahendra Singh Dhoni (@msdhoni) August 20, 2020 × ALSO READ: MS Dhoni and I hugged and cried a lot after announcing retirement: Suresh Raina While the entire nation was coming to terms that Dhoni, India’s most successful captain, won’t be seen playing in the Blue jersey again, PM Modi penned a heartfelt letter to the iconic wicketkeeper-batsman. PM Modi congratulated Dhoni for a terrific and trophy-laden career while thanking him for his incredible contribution to India. He then recalled some of the most iconic moments of Dhoni’s career, especially the 2011 World Cup final and 2007 World T20 while lauding him for inspiring many to work towards their dreams. Finally, PM Modi wished Dhoni the very best his future endeavours. "Where we come from does not matter as long as we know where we are headed..." From Narendra to Mahendra...a glorious tribute to #Thala @msdhoni from Prime Minister @narendramodi @PMOIndia. 🦁💛 https://t.co/H4oBLaidA7 — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) August 20, 2020 × Dhoni officially called it quits from international cricket as India celebrated its 74th Independence Day. The two-time World Cup-winning captain took to Instagram to share an emotional video which covered his entire cricketing journey with the Men in Blue. IN PICS | MS Dhoni announces retirement! Check out some of his coolest records "Thanks. Thanks a lot for ur love and support thorughout.from 1929 hrs consider me as retired" - Dhoni captioned the video on his Instagram handle. Dhoni scored 4876 runs in Test cricket (90 matches) at an average of 38.09 with six centuries and 33 half-centuries but it was the shorter formats of the game where the world witnessed the best of his talent. In 350 ODIs, Dhoni smashed 10,773 runs at an incredible average of 50.57 with 10 tons and 73 half-centuries to his name. In 98 T20Is, he hammered 1617 runs at a strike-rate of 126.13 in what has been a dream ride for Dhoni and Team India. Dhoni will be seen playing for Chennai Supers Kings in IPL 2020 starting September 19 in the UAE.

MS Dhoni shares heartfelt letter penned by PM Narendra Modi after retirement call

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is eager to host a farewell match for former captain MS Dhoni, who announced his retirement from international cricket, on August 15, 2020. A senior BCCI official has said that the board will have a word with Dhoni, during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 and chalk out plans accordingly.</p>

<p>According to reports, with no international series right now, Dhoni’s farewell match could come after the IPL with the official stating that he has done a lot for the nation and deserves all the respect while adding that Dhoni announced his retirement when nobody was even thinking of it.</p>

<p>However, the BCCI official clarified that the farewell match will depend on Dhoni’s opinion and what he wants but added that there will be proper felicitation ceremony for the two-time World Cup winner captain regardless of whether he agrees or not.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-dream11-tencent-and-chinese-connection-321516" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Dream11, Tencent and Chinese connection</a></strong></p>

<p>Many former cricketers have agreed that Dhoni deserves a farewell match but are of the view that the glovesman won’t agree to proposal. Nonetheless, the fans will continue to witness Dhoni in action in Indian Premier League (IPL) with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) hierarchy expecting him to continue playing beyond the age of 50.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemand Soren had also asked for a farewell match for Dhoni while appealing to the BCCI by saying that Jharkhand would host the final match of Dhoni.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistans-waqar-wants-to-stay-on-longer-after-bad-light-delays-in-second-test-321408" hreflang="en">Pakistan's Waqar wants to 'stay on longer' after bad light delays in second Test</a></strong></p>

<p>Dhoni, who is the most successful captain of Team India led the Men in Blue to triumphs in ICC World T20 in 2007, ICC World Cup 2011 and ICC Champions Trophy in 2013. He remains to be the only captain to have lifted all the major ICC trophies while also guiding India to No. 1 Test status.&nbsp;</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is eager to host a farewell match for former captain MS Dhoni, who announced his retirement from international cricket, on August 15, 2020.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is eager to host a farewell match for former captain MS Dhoni, who announced his retirement from international cricket, on August 15, 2020. A senior BCCI official has said that the board will have a word with Dhoni, during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 and chalk out plans accordingly. According to reports, with no international series right now, Dhoni’s farewell match could come after the IPL with the official stating that he has done a lot for the nation and deserves all the respect while adding that Dhoni announced his retirement when nobody was even thinking of it. However, the BCCI official clarified that the farewell match will depend on Dhoni’s opinion and what he wants but added that there will be proper felicitation ceremony for the two-time World Cup winner captain regardless of whether he agrees or not. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Dream11, Tencent and Chinese connection Many former cricketers have agreed that Dhoni deserves a farewell match but are of the view that the glovesman won’t agree to proposal. Nonetheless, the fans will continue to witness Dhoni in action in Indian Premier League (IPL) with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) hierarchy expecting him to continue playing beyond the age of 50. Even Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemand Soren had also asked for a farewell match for Dhoni while appealing to the BCCI by saying that Jharkhand would host the final match of Dhoni. ALSO READ: Pakistan's Waqar wants to 'stay on longer' after bad light delays in second Test Dhoni, who is the most successful captain of Team India led the Men in Blue to triumphs in ICC World T20 in 2007, ICC World Cup 2011 and ICC Champions Trophy in 2013. He remains to be the only captain to have lifted all the major ICC trophies while also guiding India to No. 1 Test status.

BCCI eager to host farewell match for MS Dhoni

<p>Mahendra Singh Dhoni is arguably the greatest white-ball skipper in the history of the game, former England captains Michael Vaughan and Nasser Hussain said in a tribute to the Indian who quit international cricket on Saturday.</p>

<p>Known for his unflappable demeanour, ‘Captain Cool’ Dhoni led India to World Cup titles in 2007 (Twenty20) and 2011 (ODI), besides overseeing their 2013 Champions Trophy triumph.</p>

<p>India also became the top-ranked test team under Dhoni, who ended an illustrious, trophy-laden career with an Instagram message.</p>

<p>“What an incredible international career. You could argue the greatest ever white ball captain &amp; finisher,” tweeted Vaughan.</p>

<p>Hussain also praised Dhoni’s ability to finish a game in style, best illustrated in the final of the 2011 World Cup when Dhoni sealed India’s victory with a six.</p>

<p>“A great captain, probably the best white-ball captain there has ever been,” Hussain told Sky Sports.</p>

<p>“And also a cool, calm customer under pressure; a great finisher of a game, the game wasn’t won until you got Dhoni out.”</p>

<p>Dhoni aggregated 17,000 international runs across formats and claimed more than 800 victims as wicketkeeper.</p>

<p>Spin great Shane Warne was another admirer of Dhoni’s phlegmatic brand of leadership.</p>

<p>“He had a calmness about him that was fantastic and he always got the best out of his team...” Warne told Sky Sports.</p>

<p>“His players really respected him and responded to the way Dhoni wanted to play the game.”</p>

<p>Warne also extended a public invitation to Dhoni to play next year in The Hundred, English cricket’s new short-form competition, where he has taken on the role as head coach for the London Spirit.</p>

<p>“I just wonder if I could get him down to the London Spirit next year for The Hundred,” Warne said.</p>

<p>“I might put out a call to see if he wants to play at Lord’s. I’ll find the money, MS!”</p>


Mahendra Singh Dhoni is arguably the greatest white-ball skipper in the history of the game, former England captains Michael Vaughan and Nasser Hussain said in a tribute to the Indian who quit international cricket on Saturday.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni is arguably the greatest white-ball skipper in the history of the game, former England captains Michael Vaughan and Nasser Hussain said in a tribute to the Indian who quit international cricket on Saturday. Known for his unflappable demeanour, ‘Captain Cool’ Dhoni led India to World Cup titles in 2007 (Twenty20) and 2011 (ODI), besides overseeing their 2013 Champions Trophy triumph. India also became the top-ranked test team under Dhoni, who ended an illustrious, trophy-laden career with an Instagram message. “What an incredible international career. You could argue the greatest ever white ball captain & finisher,” tweeted Vaughan. Hussain also praised Dhoni’s ability to finish a game in style, best illustrated in the final of the 2011 World Cup when Dhoni sealed India’s victory with a six. “A great captain, probably the best white-ball captain there has ever been,” Hussain told Sky Sports. “And also a cool, calm customer under pressure; a great finisher of a game, the game wasn’t won until you got Dhoni out.” Dhoni aggregated 17,000 international runs across formats and claimed more than 800 victims as wicketkeeper. Spin great Shane Warne was another admirer of Dhoni’s phlegmatic brand of leadership. “He had a calmness about him that was fantastic and he always got the best out of his team...” Warne told Sky Sports. “His players really respected him and responded to the way Dhoni wanted to play the game.” Warne also extended a public invitation to Dhoni to play next year in The Hundred, English cricket’s new short-form competition, where he has taken on the role as head coach for the London Spirit. “I just wonder if I could get him down to the London Spirit next year for The Hundred,” Warne said. “I might put out a call to see if he wants to play at Lord’s. I’ll find the money, MS!”

Dhoni arguably greatest white-ball captain, say Vaughan and Hussain

<p>The crestfallen look on Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s face was beamed across the subcontinent as the then 23-year-old — his silky black mane cascading on his broad shoulders — appeared gutted after a nightmarish international debut in 2004.</p>

<p>Dhoni had fallen for a first ball duck in Chittagong, and in the cruellest of manner — run out.</p>

<p>For much of the next decade-and-half, Dhoni subjected rivals to such agonies — from behind the stumps, with the bat, and as a shrewd captain of a highly successful team.</p>

<p>Three and half months after that forgettable debut, Dhoni announced his arrival with a breath-taking 148 off 123 balls against Pakistan in Visakhapatnam.</p>

<p>He wielded the willow like a mace and his batting was less technique and more pyrotechnic.</p>

<p>He did not have the steely defence of a Rahul Dravid or the silken touch of a VVS Laxman but Dhoni made up with his muscular ingenuity.</p>

<p>He converted the yorker into a scoring opportunity with his trademark ‘helicopter shot’, a culmination of violent convulsions involving his arm, wrists and torso.</p>

<p>Dhoni wrote his own keeping manual too, barely moving hands sideways before gathering the ball and rather thrusting them down to pull off electric stumpings.</p>

<p>His biggest legacy, however, would be as India’s ‘Captain Cool’ who was also one of one-day cricket’s greatest finishers.</p>

<p>Dhoni is the only captain to win all ICC trophies — T20 World Cup in 2007, 50-overs World Cup in 2011 and Champions Trophy in 2013. Under him, India also became the top ranked test nation in 2009.</p>

<p>And he led a cricket-mad nation of 1.3 billion with ice in his veins.</p>

<p>“It’s almost as if he doesn’t have them; a performance-enhancing gift from birth,” India’s former mental conditioning coach Paddy Upton wrote about Dhoni’s control over emotion in his memoir.</p>

<h3>INSPIRING DECISION</h3>

<p>Dhoni’s penchant for taking inspiring decisions was best illustrated in the tense final of the 2007 World Cup, when he famously asked an unheralded Joginder Sharma to bowl the final over in a tactical masterstroke against Pakistan.</p>

<p>He also transformed himself into a formidable ‘finisher’, securing India’s 2011 World Cup victory by hitting a six in the final against Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>Age, however, appeared to catch up with him in the World Cup in England last year.</p>

<p>He struggled to time the ball even against mediocre attacks and failed to provide the late assault that he once routinely delivered.</p>

<p>Those wild, flowing tresses that was once a rage among the youths in rural India, have now been replaced by greying sideburns.</p>

<p>An enigma throughout his career, Dhoni quit test cricket in the middle of India’s 2014 series in Australia.</p>

<p>On Saturday, he again shocked an unsuspecting nation, announcing his exit from international cricket with a cryptic Instagram message.</p>

<p>His fairytale rise from India’s cricketing backwaters of Jharkhand sounds like a storyline straight out of a Bollywood script. In reality, it’s the other way round.</p>

<p>Known for his fondness for bikes and military fatigue, Dhoni’s stellar career inspired a 2016 biopic “M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story” which was a roaring box office success.</p>

<p>Such has been his influence that successor Virat Kohli still considers Dhoni his captain.</p>

<p>“The world has seen achievements, I’ve seen the person. Thanks for everything skip. I tip my hat to you,” Kohli said on Twitter on Saturday.</p>


The crestfallen look on Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s face was beamed across the subcontinent as the then 23-year-old — his silky black mane cascading on his broad shoulders — appeared gutted after a nightmarish international debut in 2004.

The crestfallen look on Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s face was beamed across the subcontinent as the then 23-year-old — his silky black mane cascading on his broad shoulders — appeared gutted after a nightmarish international debut in 2004. Dhoni had fallen for a first ball duck in Chittagong, and in the cruellest of manner — run out. For much of the next decade-and-half, Dhoni subjected rivals to such agonies — from behind the stumps, with the bat, and as a shrewd captain of a highly successful team. Three and half months after that forgettable debut, Dhoni announced his arrival with a breath-taking 148 off 123 balls against Pakistan in Visakhapatnam. He wielded the willow like a mace and his batting was less technique and more pyrotechnic. He did not have the steely defence of a Rahul Dravid or the silken touch of a VVS Laxman but Dhoni made up with his muscular ingenuity. He converted the yorker into a scoring opportunity with his trademark ‘helicopter shot’, a culmination of violent convulsions involving his arm, wrists and torso. Dhoni wrote his own keeping manual too, barely moving hands sideways before gathering the ball and rather thrusting them down to pull off electric stumpings. His biggest legacy, however, would be as India’s ‘Captain Cool’ who was also one of one-day cricket’s greatest finishers. Dhoni is the only captain to win all ICC trophies — T20 World Cup in 2007, 50-overs World Cup in 2011 and Champions Trophy in 2013. Under him, India also became the top ranked test nation in 2009. And he led a cricket-mad nation of 1.3 billion with ice in his veins. “It’s almost as if he doesn’t have them; a performance-enhancing gift from birth,” India’s former mental conditioning coach Paddy Upton wrote about Dhoni’s control over emotion in his memoir. INSPIRING DECISION Dhoni’s penchant for taking inspiring decisions was best illustrated in the tense final of the 2007 World Cup, when he famously asked an unheralded Joginder Sharma to bowl the final over in a tactical masterstroke against Pakistan. He also transformed himself into a formidable ‘finisher’, securing India’s 2011 World Cup victory by hitting a six in the final against Sri Lanka. Age, however, appeared to catch up with him in the World Cup in England last year. He struggled to time the ball even against mediocre attacks and failed to provide the late assault that he once routinely delivered. Those wild, flowing tresses that was once a rage among the youths in rural India, have now been replaced by greying sideburns. An enigma throughout his career, Dhoni quit test cricket in the middle of India’s 2014 series in Australia. On Saturday, he again shocked an unsuspecting nation, announcing his exit from international cricket with a cryptic Instagram message. His fairytale rise from India’s cricketing backwaters of Jharkhand sounds like a storyline straight out of a Bollywood script. In reality, it’s the other way round. Known for his fondness for bikes and military fatigue, Dhoni’s stellar career inspired a 2016 biopic “M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story” which was a roaring box office success. Such has been his influence that successor Virat Kohli still considers Dhoni his captain. “The world has seen achievements, I’ve seen the person. Thanks for everything skip. I tip my hat to you,” Kohli said on Twitter on Saturday.

Hinterland to centrestage, Dhoni ends journey with enigma intact

<p>Former president of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) – N Srinivasan – has revealed how he chipped in to save MS Dhoni from getting removed as the captain of Indian team in 2011/12. Srinivasan’s latest revelations come in after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-announces-retirement-from-international-cricket-320826">Dhoni announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket on August 15, 2020</a> after enjoying a trophy-laded career spanning over 16 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Dhoni has spectacularly led India to World Cup win in 2011, Team India’s performance in Test cricket left the selectors unimpressed and they decided to sack Dhoni as captain after whitewashes in Test series in England and Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Srinivasan chipped in and returned from his holiday to save the swashbuckling glovesman as the skipper of Indian team. Srinivasan was left stunned to hear that the selectors were thinking of removing him as ODI captain despite India lifting the World Cup in April 2011.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-and-i-hugged-and-cried-a-lot-after-announcing-retirement-suresh-raina-321124" hreflang="en">MS Dhoni and I hugged and cried a lot after announcing retirement: Suresh Raina</a></strong></p>

<p>“This was 2011. India had won the World Cup. And (then) in Australia, we didn’t do well in the Tests. So, one of the selectors wanted to remove him (Dhoni) as the ODI captain. The point is, how do you remove him as the ODI captain? He had won the World Cup (in April 2011)," Srinivasan told Indian Express.</p>

<p>"They (selectors) had not even thought of who would be his replacement. There was a discussion and then (before the formal meeting) I said there was no way in which he would not be a player (captain).</p>

<p>"In fact, it was a holiday. I was playing golf. I came back. Sanjay Jagdale was the (BCCI) secretary at that time and he said, 'Sir, they (selectors]) are refusing to choose the captain. They will take him [Dhoni] in the team [as a player].' I came and said that MS Dhoni would be the captain. I exercised all my authority as the (BCCI) president," he added.</p>

<p>Reflecting back at the decision, Srinivasan said he was glad he stood his ground. As per old constitution of the BCCI, team selectors needed a final approval from the board president. However, after Lodha reforms, the chief selector holds the right to give the final nod in selection matters.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-retires-sachin-tendulkar-recalls-best-moment-of-his-life-while-playing-with-msd-320837" hreflang="en">MS Dhoni retires: Sachin Tendulkar recalls best moment of his life while playing with MSD</a></strong></p>

<p>“See, there was apparently some prejudice somewhere, which reflected. He (Dhoni) has won the World Cup for you. After 1983, India won it again and you say, ‘I don’t want him to be the ODI captain’! Left to them (selectors), they might have (dropped him as a player). I don’t know. I think that was the most unfair (move) and I am glad that I stood my ground,” Srinivasan said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Dhoni will continue to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Chennai Super Kings and will be seen in action from September 19.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Former president of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) – N Srinivasan – has revealed how he chipped in to save MS Dhoni from getting removed as the captain of Indian team in 2011/12.

Former president of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) – N Srinivasan – has revealed how he chipped in to save MS Dhoni from getting removed as the captain of Indian team in 2011/12. Srinivasan’s latest revelations come in after Dhoni announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket on August 15, 2020 after enjoying a trophy-laded career spanning over 16 years. While Dhoni has spectacularly led India to World Cup win in 2011, Team India’s performance in Test cricket left the selectors unimpressed and they decided to sack Dhoni as captain after whitewashes in Test series in England and Australia. However, Srinivasan chipped in and returned from his holiday to save the swashbuckling glovesman as the skipper of Indian team. Srinivasan was left stunned to hear that the selectors were thinking of removing him as ODI captain despite India lifting the World Cup in April 2011. ALSO READ: MS Dhoni and I hugged and cried a lot after announcing retirement: Suresh Raina “This was 2011. India had won the World Cup. And (then) in Australia, we didn’t do well in the Tests. So, one of the selectors wanted to remove him (Dhoni) as the ODI captain. The point is, how do you remove him as the ODI captain? He had won the World Cup (in April 2011)," Srinivasan told Indian Express. "They (selectors) had not even thought of who would be his replacement. There was a discussion and then (before the formal meeting) I said there was no way in which he would not be a player (captain). "In fact, it was a holiday. I was playing golf. I came back. Sanjay Jagdale was the (BCCI) secretary at that time and he said, 'Sir, they (selectors]) are refusing to choose the captain. They will take him [Dhoni] in the team [as a player].' I came and said that MS Dhoni would be the captain. I exercised all my authority as the (BCCI) president," he added. Reflecting back at the decision, Srinivasan said he was glad he stood his ground. As per old constitution of the BCCI, team selectors needed a final approval from the board president. However, after Lodha reforms, the chief selector holds the right to give the final nod in selection matters. ALSO READ: MS Dhoni retires: Sachin Tendulkar recalls best moment of his life while playing with MSD “See, there was apparently some prejudice somewhere, which reflected. He (Dhoni) has won the World Cup for you. After 1983, India won it again and you say, ‘I don’t want him to be the ODI captain’! Left to them (selectors), they might have (dropped him as a player). I don’t know. I think that was the most unfair (move) and I am glad that I stood my ground,” Srinivasan said. Meanwhile, Dhoni will continue to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Chennai Super Kings and will be seen in action from September 19.

How N Srinivasan stopped selectors from sacking MS Dhoni as captain

<p>Both MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina on Saturday announced their retirement from all forms of international cricket – a decision that came as a massive surprise to the cricket fraternity. While it was Dhoni, who called it quits from the gentlemen’s game first, Raina – one of Dhoni’s most trusted personnel – followed the footsteps of the former Indian captain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Raina has now revealed what went through behind the scenes before and after the duo hanged their boots from international cricket. Interestingly, Raina and Dhoni have not shared just the Indian dressing room but has been a part of Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings for long.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Raina said that he knew Dhoni would announce his retirement after reaching Chennai and hence, he was ready with his call as well. The southpaw further revealed that after announcing retirement, they both hugged and cried a lot and partied in the night.</p>

<p>“I knew Dhoni would announce his retirement upon reaching Chennai, so I was ready. I, Piyush Chawla, Deepak Chahar and Karn Sharma reached Ranchi on 14th with the chartered plane, and picked up Mahi bhai and Monu Singh,” Raina told Dainik Jagran.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/witty-classy-cool-relive-some-of-the-best-quotes-from-ms-dhoni-320847">Witty, classy, cool: Relive some of the best quotes from MS Dhoni</a></strong></p>

<p>“After announcing our retirement, we hugged and cried a lot. I, Piyush, Ambati Rayudu, Kedar Jadhav and Karn sat together after that, talked about our careers and our relationship. We partied during the night,” Raina added.</p>

<p>The former Indian cricketer said that they both had decided to announce their retirement on August 15 as it was 73 years since India attained Independence. Notably, Dhoni’s jersey was 7 while Raina donned no. three and the duo decided it was a good occasion to call it quits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Thanks. Thanks a lot for ur love and support throughout.from 1929 hrs consider me as Retired," Dhoni posted on Instagram.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hinterland-to-centrestage-dhoni-ends-journey-with-enigma-intact-321107" hreflang="en">Hinterland to centrestage, Dhoni ends journey with enigma intact</a></strong></p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CD6ZQn1lGBi/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" 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">Thanks a lot for ur love and support throughout.from 1929 hrs consider me as Retired</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/mahi7781/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> M S Dhoni</a> (@mahi7781) on <time datetime="2020-08-15T14:01:53+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Aug 15, 2020 at 7:01am PDT</time></p>
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<p>"It was nothing but lovely playing with you, @mahi7781 . With my heart full of pride, I choose to join you in this journey. Thank you India. Jai Hind!" tweeted Raina.&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CD6d3QChY-V/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" 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">It was nothing but lovely playing with you, @mahi7781 . With my heart full of pride, I choose to join you in this journey. Thank you India. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳</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/sureshraina3/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Suresh Raina</a> (@sureshraina3) on <time datetime="2020-08-15T14:36:33+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Aug 15, 2020 at 7:36am PDT</time></p>
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<p>The duo won’t be seen in Indian jersey anymore but will continue to entertain cricket lovers in IPL.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Both MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina on Saturday announced their retirement from all forms of international cricket – a decision that came as a massive surprise to the cricket fraternity.

Both MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina on Saturday announced their retirement from all forms of international cricket – a decision that came as a massive surprise to the cricket fraternity. While it was Dhoni, who called it quits from the gentlemen’s game first, Raina – one of Dhoni’s most trusted personnel – followed the footsteps of the former Indian captain. Raina has now revealed what went through behind the scenes before and after the duo hanged their boots from international cricket. Interestingly, Raina and Dhoni have not shared just the Indian dressing room but has been a part of Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings for long. Raina said that he knew Dhoni would announce his retirement after reaching Chennai and hence, he was ready with his call as well. The southpaw further revealed that after announcing retirement, they both hugged and cried a lot and partied in the night. “I knew Dhoni would announce his retirement upon reaching Chennai, so I was ready. I, Piyush Chawla, Deepak Chahar and Karn Sharma reached Ranchi on 14th with the chartered plane, and picked up Mahi bhai and Monu Singh,” Raina told Dainik Jagran. IN PICS | Witty, classy, cool: Relive some of the best quotes from MS Dhoni “After announcing our retirement, we hugged and cried a lot. I, Piyush, Ambati Rayudu, Kedar Jadhav and Karn sat together after that, talked about our careers and our relationship. We partied during the night,” Raina added. The former Indian cricketer said that they both had decided to announce their retirement on August 15 as it was 73 years since India attained Independence. Notably, Dhoni’s jersey was 7 while Raina donned no. three and the duo decided it was a good occasion to call it quits. "Thanks. Thanks a lot for ur love and support throughout.from 1929 hrs consider me as Retired," Dhoni posted on Instagram. ALSO READ: Hinterland to centrestage, Dhoni ends journey with enigma intact View this post on Instagram Thanks a lot for ur love and support throughout.from 1929 hrs consider me as Retired A post shared by M S Dhoni (@mahi7781) on Aug 15, 2020 at 7:01am PDT × "It was nothing but lovely playing with you, @mahi7781 . With my heart full of pride, I choose to join you in this journey. Thank you India. Jai Hind!" tweeted Raina. View this post on Instagram It was nothing but lovely playing with you, @mahi7781 . With my heart full of pride, I choose to join you in this journey. Thank you India. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳 A post shared by Suresh Raina (@sureshraina3) on Aug 15, 2020 at 7:36am PDT × The duo won’t be seen in Indian jersey anymore but will continue to entertain cricket lovers in IPL.

MS Dhoni and I hugged and cried a lot after announcing retirement: Suresh Raina

<p>As India`s World Cup-winning captain, Mahendra Singh Dhoni on Saturday announced <a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/ms-dhoni-announces-retirement-from-international-cricket-320826">retirement</a> from the international cricket, several Bollywood celebrities thanked the wicket-keeper batsman for treating them with his 16-year-long innings.<br />
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Celebrities like Anushka Sharma, Varun Dhawan, Vicky Kaushal, Riteish Deshmukh, and others took to social media to react to the retirement of the 'Captain Cool'.</p>

<p><strong>In pics:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/photos/witty-classy-cool-relive-some-of-the-best-quotes-from-ms-dhoni-320847" hreflang="en">Witty, classy, cool: Relive some of the best quotes from MS Dhoni</a><br />
<br />
Actor-producer Anushka Sharma posted a picture of Dhoni on her Instagram stories and thanked him for the cricket memories that he has given to every fan."Thank You MSD for the memories that we will never forget," she wrote along with the picture.<br />
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<img alt="anushka" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="140e3e64-d726-4614-99ef-8664d029ce61" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2844%29_7.jpg" /><br />
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Actor Vicky Kaushal, on the other hand, took to Instagram stories and posted a creative picture of the former skipper and wrote," What an inning! Thank You for everything."</p>

<p><img alt="varun" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a58dc331-169c-4fa5-87d0-ef97bcaf6a11" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2843%29_8.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Varun Dhawan also posted two pictures of Dhoni from the cricket stadium on Instagram stories and wrote, "Pure Class," along with one picture and, "Thank U," with the other one.</p>

<p>Riteish Deshmukh also posted a picture of the ace cricketer and said that Dhoni cannot retire from the hearts of the fans."No retirement from our hearts #MSDhoni," tweeted Deshmukh.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">No retirement from our hearts ♥️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/SMRA15L00L">pic.twitter.com/SMRA15L00L</a></p>
— Riteish Deshmukh (@Riteishd) <a href="https://twitter.com/Riteishd/status/1294643814448001027?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Actor Randeep Hooda took to Twitter and shared a picture of Dhoni from the stadium and wrote, "Nooooo," in disbelief to the news of his retirement and then said, "You`ve always known the best .. Thanks for the entertainment."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">बहुत याराना लगता है ।।<br />
It’s too much...<br />
thank you for all the gentleness and the aggressive entertainment Suresh Raina bro 🤗🙏🏽<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rainaretires?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rainaretires</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/raina?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#raina</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ycvq6Di6Xi">pic.twitter.com/Ycvq6Di6Xi</a></p>
— Randeep Hooda (@RandeepHooda) <a href="https://twitter.com/RandeepHooda/status/1294660306606542851?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>'Pati Patni Aur Woh'&nbsp;actor Kartik Aaryan posted a picture of one of the iconic moves of the former cricketer and asked if there is anything that can change his mind of retiring from international cricket. "Id there anything we can do to change your mind?" he wrote.</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CD6qWT0JL0a/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" 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">Greatest Ever !! 🔥 @mahi7781</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/kartikaaryan/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> KARTIK AARYAN</a> (@kartikaaryan) on <time datetime="2020-08-15T16:25:39+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Aug 15, 2020 at 9:25am PDT</time></p>
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<p>Dhoni made his ODI debut in 2004 and changed the face of Indian cricket with his calm demeanour, sharp understanding of the game, and astute leadership qualities.He is among the most successful captains in world cricket. It was under his leadership that India lifted the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2011 after having led India to triumph in the ICC World T20 in its maiden edition of the tournament held in 2007 in South Africa.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/ms-dhoni-retires-sachin-tendulkar-recalls-best-moment-of-his-life-while-playing-with-msd-320837" hreflang="en">MS Dhoni retires: Sachin Tendulkar recalls best moment of his life while playing with MSD</a><br />
<br />
With India winning the ICC Champions Trophy in 2013 in England, Dhoni became the first and is still the only captain to date to have won all three ICC Trophies.While his heroics in the limited-overs formats are well documented, it was also under his leadership that India became the number one Test side in 2009 and the team stayed at the top for over 600 days.<br />
<br />
He has led India to victory in 21 home Test matches, the most by an Indian captain. Leaving behind a rich legacy that will be difficult to replicate, Dhoni holds the record for most international matches as captain (332).Unarguably the quickest man behind the wicket, Dhoni has 195 international stumpings, the most by any wicket-keeper.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/photos/ms-dhoni-announces-retirement-check-out-some-of-his-coolest-records-311213" hreflang="en">MS Dhoni announces retirement! Check out some of his coolest records</a><br />
<br />
Dhoni had played 350 ODIs and scored 10,773 runs with the highest score of 183* against Sri Lanka. In 98 T20Is, he amassed 1617 runs at an average of 37.60.Also referred to as 'Captain Cool', Dhoni is known for his calmness and exquisite captaincy on the field.<br />
<br />
He was also known for his knack of opting for reviews and many have jokingly remarked to change the 'Decision-Review System's' name to 'Dhoni-Review System'. In December 2014, he announced his retirement from Test cricket and gave a chance to the likes of Wriddhiman Saha.<br />
<br />
Dhoni called time on his Test career after playing 90 Tests, managing to score 4,876 runs at an average of 38.09. Then in 2017, he handed over the captaincy to Virat Kohli in the 50-over format.Dhoni was slated to return to the cricket field on March 29 during the IPL`s opening match between CSK and Mumbai Indians.However, the tournament will now be played in the UAE from September 19 to November 10. He will continue to captain CSK in the IPL 2020.</p>


As India`s World Cup-winning captain, Mahendra Singh Dhoni on Saturday announced retirement from the international cricket, several Bollywood celebrities thanked the wicket-keeper batsman for treating them with his 16-year-long innings.

As India`s World Cup-winning captain, Mahendra Singh Dhoni on Saturday announced retirement from the international cricket, several Bollywood celebrities thanked the wicket-keeper batsman for treating them with his 16-year-long innings. Celebrities like Anushka Sharma, Varun Dhawan, Vicky Kaushal, Riteish Deshmukh, and others took to social media to react to the retirement of the 'Captain Cool'. In pics: Witty, classy, cool: Relive some of the best quotes from MS Dhoni Actor-producer Anushka Sharma posted a picture of Dhoni on her Instagram stories and thanked him for the cricket memories that he has given to every fan."Thank You MSD for the memories that we will never forget," she wrote along with the picture. Actor Vicky Kaushal, on the other hand, took to Instagram stories and posted a creative picture of the former skipper and wrote," What an inning! Thank You for everything." Varun Dhawan also posted two pictures of Dhoni from the cricket stadium on Instagram stories and wrote, "Pure Class," along with one picture and, "Thank U," with the other one. Riteish Deshmukh also posted a picture of the ace cricketer and said that Dhoni cannot retire from the hearts of the fans."No retirement from our hearts #MSDhoni," tweeted Deshmukh. No retirement from our hearts ♥️ #MSDhoni @msdhoni pic.twitter.com/SMRA15L00L — Riteish Deshmukh (@Riteishd) August 15, 2020 × Actor Randeep Hooda took to Twitter and shared a picture of Dhoni from the stadium and wrote, "Nooooo," in disbelief to the news of his retirement and then said, "You`ve always known the best .. Thanks for the entertainment." बहुत याराना लगता है ।। It’s too much... thank you for all the gentleness and the aggressive entertainment Suresh Raina bro 🤗🙏🏽#rainaretires #raina pic.twitter.com/Ycvq6Di6Xi — Randeep Hooda (@RandeepHooda) August 15, 2020 × 'Pati Patni Aur Woh' actor Kartik Aaryan posted a picture of one of the iconic moves of the former cricketer and asked if there is anything that can change his mind of retiring from international cricket. "Id there anything we can do to change your mind?" he wrote. View this post on Instagram Greatest Ever !! 🔥 @mahi7781 A post shared by KARTIK AARYAN (@kartikaaryan) on Aug 15, 2020 at 9:25am PDT × Dhoni made his ODI debut in 2004 and changed the face of Indian cricket with his calm demeanour, sharp understanding of the game, and astute leadership qualities.He is among the most successful captains in world cricket. It was under his leadership that India lifted the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2011 after having led India to triumph in the ICC World T20 in its maiden edition of the tournament held in 2007 in South Africa. Also read: MS Dhoni retires: Sachin Tendulkar recalls best moment of his life while playing with MSD With India winning the ICC Champions Trophy in 2013 in England, Dhoni became the first and is still the only captain to date to have won all three ICC Trophies.While his heroics in the limited-overs formats are well documented, it was also under his leadership that India became the number one Test side in 2009 and the team stayed at the top for over 600 days. He has led India to victory in 21 home Test matches, the most by an Indian captain. Leaving behind a rich legacy that will be difficult to replicate, Dhoni holds the record for most international matches as captain (332).Unarguably the quickest man behind the wicket, Dhoni has 195 international stumpings, the most by any wicket-keeper. Also read: MS Dhoni announces retirement! Check out some of his coolest records Dhoni had played 350 ODIs and scored 10,773 runs with the highest score of 183* against Sri Lanka. In 98 T20Is, he amassed 1617 runs at an average of 37.60.Also referred to as 'Captain Cool', Dhoni is known for his calmness and exquisite captaincy on the field. He was also known for his knack of opting for reviews and many have jokingly remarked to change the 'Decision-Review System's' name to 'Dhoni-Review System'. In December 2014, he announced his retirement from Test cricket and gave a chance to the likes of Wriddhiman Saha. Dhoni called time on his Test career after playing 90 Tests, managing to score 4,876 runs at an average of 38.09. Then in 2017, he handed over the captaincy to Virat Kohli in the 50-over format.Dhoni was slated to return to the cricket field on March 29 during the IPL`s opening match between CSK and Mumbai Indians.However, the tournament will now be played in the UAE from September 19 to November 10. He will continue to captain CSK in the IPL 2020.

'No retirement from our hearts': B-town reacts as MS Dhoni calls time on his international career

Witty, classy, cool: Relive some of the best quotes from MS Dhoni

<p>The much-awaited <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> is set to commence from September 19 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the preparations for the cash-rich tournament have started in full flow. While the BCCI has received all the necessary clearance from Indian government, the teams are gearing up to fly to the UAE after August 20.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before jetting off to the UAE, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will gather at the MA Chidambaram Stadium with players set to arrive in Chennai by August 15. CSK skipper MS Dhoni got tested for COVID-19 ahead of their IPL 2020 camp as he underwent a test on Wednesday and the report is expected to be out by Thursday afternoon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per reports, Dhoni’s sample was taken by the micro praxis lab at Guru Nanak hospital from his farmhouse in Ranchi. Apart from Dhoni, CSK player Monu Kumar Singh also gave his sample.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-dhoni-raina-among-other-csk-players-to-reach-chennai-by-august-15-319774" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Dhoni, Raina among other CSK players to reach Chennai by August 15</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier, CSK CEO Kasi Vishwanathan had confirmed to WION that the entire team will be flying to the UAE on August 21.</p>

<p>“The entire team will be flying to the UAE on August 21 and all the arrangements related to it have been made,” Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Vishwanathan told WION on Tuesday while adding that the team will put base in "Dubai".</p>

<p>“Dhoni, Raina and every other Indian player from the squad will reach Chennai by August 15 and after that we will have a small camp to get everyone on the same page,” Vishwanathan added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-salutes-kings-xi-punjab-and-ipl-dream-with-sheldon-cottrell-319471" hreflang="en">Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Dhoni will be back on the cricket field after playing his last professional match in the ICC World Cup 2019 semi-final against New Zealand.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
Both the players will travel to Chennai for the five-day CSK camp if they get a negative res</p>


The much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is set to commence from September 19 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the preparations for the cash-rich tournament have started in full flow.

The much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is set to commence from September 19 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the preparations for the cash-rich tournament have started in full flow. While the BCCI has received all the necessary clearance from Indian government, the teams are gearing up to fly to the UAE after August 20. Before jetting off to the UAE, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will gather at the MA Chidambaram Stadium with players set to arrive in Chennai by August 15. CSK skipper MS Dhoni got tested for COVID-19 ahead of their IPL 2020 camp as he underwent a test on Wednesday and the report is expected to be out by Thursday afternoon. As per reports, Dhoni’s sample was taken by the micro praxis lab at Guru Nanak hospital from his farmhouse in Ranchi. Apart from Dhoni, CSK player Monu Kumar Singh also gave his sample. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Dhoni, Raina among other CSK players to reach Chennai by August 15 Earlier, CSK CEO Kasi Vishwanathan had confirmed to WION that the entire team will be flying to the UAE on August 21. “The entire team will be flying to the UAE on August 21 and all the arrangements related to it have been made,” Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Vishwanathan told WION on Tuesday while adding that the team will put base in "Dubai". “Dhoni, Raina and every other Indian player from the squad will reach Chennai by August 15 and after that we will have a small camp to get everyone on the same page,” Vishwanathan added. ALSO READ: Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell Meanwhile, Dhoni will be back on the cricket field after playing his last professional match in the ICC World Cup 2019 semi-final against New Zealand. Both the players will travel to Chennai for the five-day CSK camp if they get a negative res

IPL 2020: MS Dhoni undergoes COVID-19 test, report expected today

<p>Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni has turned 39 and the entire cricket fraternity, fans from all over the world have been wishing the legendary Indian cricketer. Dwayne Bravo, one of Dhoni's CSK teammates gifted the 'Thala' with a special song.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/happy-birthday-ms-dhoni-world-unites-to-celebrate-as-wishes-and-tributes-pour-in-for-msd-311327" hreflang="en">Happy Birthday MS Dhoni: World unites to celebrate as wishes and tributes pour in for MSD</a></p>

<p>Bravo has composed a song paying tribute to MS dhoni and has titled it 'Helicopter 7'. Bravo composed lyrics in the way that it talked about some of his milestones representing Team India. He is one of the most successful skipper for the team and has won every major ICC trophy -- the only captain to do so.</p>

<p><strong>Also see:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ms-dhoni-turns-39-check-out-some-of-his-coolest-records-311213">MS Dhoni turns 39! Check out some of his coolest records</a></p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings (CSK)'s official Twitter handle also released the song, on Monday evening, and captioned the post: "The Helicopter 7 has taken off! @DJBravo47's tribute to #Thala @msdhoni, his brother from another mother! #HappyBirthdayDhoni #WhistlePodu"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Helicopter 7 has taken off! <a href="https://twitter.com/DJBravo47?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DJBravo47</a>'s tribute to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thala</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a>, his brother from another mother! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayDhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> 🦁💛 <a href="https://t.co/KAs8gGFIzt">pic.twitter.com/KAs8gGFIzt</a></p>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1280165928961859585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier, Bravo had announced the song that he would dedicate to Dhoni and will release it on his birthday. He took to social media platform Instagram to share this news with his fans. He wrote: “Just to keep my fans updated on @mahi7781 song!! #7 as you’ll request the plan is to release this song on his birthday, Also, we have a new dance!! It’s called the Helicopter ?? pls tag me your version of the helicopter ?? dance and I will pick out the best dance and make it the official Dance for MS!!”</p>

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<p>While Dhoni last took to the cricket field in the semi-final of ICC World Cup 2019, fans have been waiting to catch a glimpse of MSD smashing it all over the park. In normal circumstances, Dhoni would have played in IPL 2020 and might have again taken CSK to the playoffs, which has become a regularity.&nbsp;</p>


Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni has turned 39 and the entire cricket fraternity, fans from all over the world have been wishing the legendary Indian cricketer. Dwayne Bravo, one of Dhoni's CSK teammates gifted the 'Thala' with a special song.

Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni has turned 39 and the entire cricket fraternity, fans from all over the world have been wishing the legendary Indian cricketer. Dwayne Bravo, one of Dhoni's CSK teammates gifted the 'Thala' with a special song. Also read: Happy Birthday MS Dhoni: World unites to celebrate as wishes and tributes pour in for MSD Bravo has composed a song paying tribute to MS dhoni and has titled it 'Helicopter 7'. Bravo composed lyrics in the way that it talked about some of his milestones representing Team India. He is one of the most successful skipper for the team and has won every major ICC trophy -- the only captain to do so. Also see: MS Dhoni turns 39! Check out some of his coolest records Chennai Super Kings (CSK)'s official Twitter handle also released the song, on Monday evening, and captioned the post: "The Helicopter 7 has taken off! @DJBravo47's tribute to #Thala @msdhoni, his brother from another mother! #HappyBirthdayDhoni #WhistlePodu" The Helicopter 7 has taken off! @DJBravo47's tribute to #Thala @msdhoni, his brother from another mother! #HappyBirthdayDhoni #WhistlePodu 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/KAs8gGFIzt — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) July 6, 2020 × Earlier, Bravo had announced the song that he would dedicate to Dhoni and will release it on his birthday. He took to social media platform Instagram to share this news with his fans. He wrote: “Just to keep my fans updated on @mahi7781 song!! #7 as you’ll request the plan is to release this song on his birthday, Also, we have a new dance!! It’s called the Helicopter ?? pls tag me your version of the helicopter ?? dance and I will pick out the best dance and make it the official Dance for MS!!” × While Dhoni last took to the cricket field in the semi-final of ICC World Cup 2019, fans have been waiting to catch a glimpse of MSD smashing it all over the park. In normal circumstances, Dhoni would have played in IPL 2020 and might have again taken CSK to the playoffs, which has become a regularity.

Watch: CSK teammate Dwayne Bravo dedicates a song to MS Dhoni on his birthday

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to organise a six-week camp for its elite cricketers somewhere in July and speculations have started whether Mahendra Singh Dhoni will make the cut or not. The BCCI is looking for a safe time and venue for the camp after the third week of July and in case if it is not possible then players will join their respective IPL camps later in the year.</p>

<p>While Dhoni is not in the central contracts list, a few players from outside the pool is expected to feature in the camp. Former chief selector MSK Prasad is of the view that Dhoni should feature in the camp if the preparation is for the T20 World Cup, otherwise players like KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson are there for the bilaterals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I don't know whether T20 World Cup is happening or not. If it is happening and you are just looking at the camp as a pre-cursor to the tournament, then MS should definitely be there. If it's a case of bilaterals, then you already have KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson," Prasad told PTI.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-2011-world-cup-final-fixing-allegation-sri-lankan-government-launches-probe-307111" hreflang="en">After 2011 World Cup final fixing allegation, Sri Lankan government launches probe</a></strong></p>

<p>Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra said that if Dhoni wants to be there in the camp then he should be there, no questions asked.</p>

<p>"If I was a national selector, MS Dhoni will be in my team but the bigger question is that whether he wants to play or not. It's what Dhoni wants at the end of the day," Nehra said.</p>

<p>Whereas Harbhajan Singh has said that he wants to see youngsters take part in the camp while mentioning the likes of Ravi Bishnoi, Yashasvi Jaiswal and in-form Suryakumar Yadav.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chinese-sponsorship-in-ipl-helps-indian-economy-not-other-way-around-bcci-treasurer-arun-dhumal-307090" hreflang="en">Chinese sponsorship in IPL helps Indian economy, not other way around: BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal</a></strong></p>

<p>"I would like to see Suryakumar Yadav, the young U-19 leg-spinner (Ravi Bishnoi) and Yashasvi Jaiswal in that camp.</p>

<p>They should get a chance to interact with the senior players. No one deserves it more than Surya, who should be in that T20 team," Harbhajan said.</p>

<p>Deep Dasgupta, on the other hand, feels that Dhoni cannot be ruled out of the World Cup even if he is not there in the camp while adding everything depends on how the former Indian captain performs in the IPL.</p>

<p>"I mean if Dhoni is a part of that camp, it will be six weeks with the next batch of keepers who can pick his brains. Yes, if he is not a part of that camp, I would still not rule him out if he has a good IPL. Say he bats at No 4 for CSK and gets 500 runs, can you ignore him then?" questioned Dasgupta.</p>

<p>A senior official privy to selection matter is of the view that he would be very surprised if Dhoni is picked for the upcoming camp.</p>

<p>"He hasn't played for one year. You haven't seen in what shape he is right now. He is not in central contracts and he wasn't even picked for the T20s against West Indies last year. Still if he is called for a camp, it will be surprising," the official said.</p>

<p><em>(Inputs from PTI)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to organise a six-week camp for its elite cricketers somewhere in July and speculations have started whether Mahendra Singh Dhoni will make the cut or not.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to organise a six-week camp for its elite cricketers somewhere in July and speculations have started whether Mahendra Singh Dhoni will make the cut or not. The BCCI is looking for a safe time and venue for the camp after the third week of July and in case if it is not possible then players will join their respective IPL camps later in the year. While Dhoni is not in the central contracts list, a few players from outside the pool is expected to feature in the camp. Former chief selector MSK Prasad is of the view that Dhoni should feature in the camp if the preparation is for the T20 World Cup, otherwise players like KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson are there for the bilaterals. "I don't know whether T20 World Cup is happening or not. If it is happening and you are just looking at the camp as a pre-cursor to the tournament, then MS should definitely be there. If it's a case of bilaterals, then you already have KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson," Prasad told PTI. ALSO READ: After 2011 World Cup final fixing allegation, Sri Lankan government launches probe Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra said that if Dhoni wants to be there in the camp then he should be there, no questions asked. "If I was a national selector, MS Dhoni will be in my team but the bigger question is that whether he wants to play or not. It's what Dhoni wants at the end of the day," Nehra said. Whereas Harbhajan Singh has said that he wants to see youngsters take part in the camp while mentioning the likes of Ravi Bishnoi, Yashasvi Jaiswal and in-form Suryakumar Yadav. ALSO READ: Chinese sponsorship in IPL helps Indian economy, not other way around: BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal "I would like to see Suryakumar Yadav, the young U-19 leg-spinner (Ravi Bishnoi) and Yashasvi Jaiswal in that camp. They should get a chance to interact with the senior players. No one deserves it more than Surya, who should be in that T20 team," Harbhajan said. Deep Dasgupta, on the other hand, feels that Dhoni cannot be ruled out of the World Cup even if he is not there in the camp while adding everything depends on how the former Indian captain performs in the IPL. "I mean if Dhoni is a part of that camp, it will be six weeks with the next batch of keepers who can pick his brains. Yes, if he is not a part of that camp, I would still not rule him out if he has a good IPL. Say he bats at No 4 for CSK and gets 500 runs, can you ignore him then?" questioned Dasgupta. A senior official privy to selection matter is of the view that he would be very surprised if Dhoni is picked for the upcoming camp. "He hasn't played for one year. You haven't seen in what shape he is right now. He is not in central contracts and he wasn't even picked for the T20s against West Indies last year. Still if he is called for a camp, it will be surprising," the official said. (Inputs from PTI)

MS Dhoni for India training camp post lockdown? Experts left divided

<p>MS Dhoni last appeared on the cricket field during India’s defeat to New Zealand in the semi-final of the ICC World Cup 2019. Since then, the veteran wicket-keeper has opted to take a sabbatical from the gentlemen’s game. Dhoni was supposed to return in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 but the cash-rich tournament was suspended indefinitely due to COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While fans are still eagerly waiting to see the former Indian captain in action, #DhoniRetires and #DhoniNeverTires trended on social media platform Twitter on Wednesday and Thursday as fans took a nostalgic trip as they recalled some of the knocks and statistics of Dhoni.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-may-allow-indian-cricketers-to-participate-in-ecbs-the-hundred-report-301493" hreflang="en">BCCI may allow Indian cricketers to participate in ECB's 'The Hundred': Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Even Dhoni’s wife Sakshi tweeted while calling #DhoniRetires trend as just rumours only to delete the tweet moments later, sparking further speculations on the former Indian captain’s future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni’s childhood coach, Keshav Banerjee has now cleared the air surrounding Dhoni’s retirement as he opined that Dhoni will inform the BCCI and call a proper press conference to call his time from the game.</p>

<p>"Dhoni is not the kind of person who will call up people and tell them 'I am retiring'. He knows how to do it. When he will feel it is time, he will inform BCCI and call a proper press conference and do all the things that need to be done. Like he did when he called time on his Test career," Banerjee was quoted as saying by a news agency.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-vs-bcci-india-could-lose-t20-world-cup-2021-hosting-rights-over-tax-exemption-issues-301336" hreflang="en">ICC vs BCCI: India could lose T20 World Cup 2021 hosting rights over tax exemption issues</a></strong></p>

<p>"You don't go by social media. There are many things that become 'trends' but end up as fake news. I don't know why people are after Dhoni. I know him well and I can tell you, he will let all of us know when he thinks he has to retire," Banerjee added.</p>

<p>Banerjee further said that Dhoni is absolutely fit and can play the T20 World Cup even it is postponed to 2021.&nbsp;<br />
"You will get to see in the IPL how fit Dhoni still is. He can play the T20 World Cup even if it is postponed. Even if it happens next year," Banerjee said.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


MS Dhoni last appeared on the cricket field during India’s defeat to New Zealand in the semi-final of the ICC World Cup 2019. Since then, the veteran wicket-keeper has opted to take a sabbatical from the gentlemen’s game.

MS Dhoni last appeared on the cricket field during India’s defeat to New Zealand in the semi-final of the ICC World Cup 2019. Since then, the veteran wicket-keeper has opted to take a sabbatical from the gentlemen’s game. Dhoni was supposed to return in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 but the cash-rich tournament was suspended indefinitely due to COVID-19 pandemic. While fans are still eagerly waiting to see the former Indian captain in action, #DhoniRetires and #DhoniNeverTires trended on social media platform Twitter on Wednesday and Thursday as fans took a nostalgic trip as they recalled some of the knocks and statistics of Dhoni. ALSO READ: BCCI may allow Indian cricketers to participate in ECB's 'The Hundred': Report Even Dhoni’s wife Sakshi tweeted while calling #DhoniRetires trend as just rumours only to delete the tweet moments later, sparking further speculations on the former Indian captain’s future. Dhoni’s childhood coach, Keshav Banerjee has now cleared the air surrounding Dhoni’s retirement as he opined that Dhoni will inform the BCCI and call a proper press conference to call his time from the game. "Dhoni is not the kind of person who will call up people and tell them 'I am retiring'. He knows how to do it. When he will feel it is time, he will inform BCCI and call a proper press conference and do all the things that need to be done. Like he did when he called time on his Test career," Banerjee was quoted as saying by a news agency. ALSO READ: ICC vs BCCI: India could lose T20 World Cup 2021 hosting rights over tax exemption issues "You don't go by social media. There are many things that become 'trends' but end up as fake news. I don't know why people are after Dhoni. I know him well and I can tell you, he will let all of us know when he thinks he has to retire," Banerjee added. Banerjee further said that Dhoni is absolutely fit and can play the T20 World Cup even it is postponed to 2021. "You will get to see in the IPL how fit Dhoni still is. He can play the T20 World Cup even if it is postponed. Even if it happens next year," Banerjee said.

MS Dhoni's childhood coach clears air on MSD's retirement, says 'he will inform BCCI and call press conference'

<p>Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh slams former Indian coach Greg Chappell who recently spoke about MS Dhoni's finishing skills.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-most-powerful-batsman-and-best-finisher-cricket-has-ever-seen-greg-chappell-298399">MS Dhoni 'most powerful batsman' and 'best finisher' cricket has ever seen: Greg Chappell</a></p>

<p>While speaking in an interaction on the Facebook handle of the Playwrite Foundation he said that he played a major role in shaping MS Dhoni's finishing skills. He talked about a match against Sri Lanka in 2005 where he had challenged Dhoni to "play along the ground" &nbsp;while he was hitting the balls outside the park.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Greg said: "I remember his knock of 183 against Sri Lanka and how he tore them apart. It was power hitting at its very best. The next match was in Pune. I asked MS, 'why don't you play along the ground more instead of trying to hit every ball to the boundary'. We were chasing 260 odd and were in a good position and Dhoni was playing a contrasting inning to the one he had played just a couple of days before.</p>

<p>"We still needed 20 runs to win and Dhoni asked me, through 12th man RP Singh if he could hit sixes. I told him not until the target was in single digit. When we needed six runs to win, he finished the game with a six," he said.</p>

<p>He recalled that he used to challenge Dhoni to finish the game. "I always used to challenge him if he could finish the game. There used to be a booming smile on his face, whenever he used to score the winning runs. He is definitely the best finisher the game has ever seen," he signed off.</p>

<p>This did not go down well with Harbhajan Singh, who took a dig at the former coach. He took to Twitter and said: "He asked Dhoni to play along the ground coz coach was hitting everyone out the park. He was playing different games #worstdaysofindiancricketundergreg."</p>

<p><img alt="mm" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a6d0d3d0-2a45-4f3b-8707-d2c05e7fae02" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Capture_9.JPG" /></p>

<p>Greg Chappell era in the Indian cricket lasted between 2005 and 2007. This included India's 2007 World Cup campaign which is regarded as the worst run by the team after they got knocked out in the group stages. He had a well-known rift with former Indian skipper and current BCCI president Sourav Ganguly. He also had a bad impression on few senior players including Sachin Tendulkar.</p>


Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh slams former Indian coach Greg Chappell who recently spoke about MS Dhoni's finishing skills. Also read: MS Dhoni 'most powerful batsman' and 'best finisher' cricket has ever seen: Greg Chappell While speaking in an interaction on the Facebook handle of the Playwrite Foundation he said that he played a major role in shaping MS Dhoni's finishing skills.

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh slams former Indian coach Greg Chappell who recently spoke about MS Dhoni's finishing skills. Also read: MS Dhoni 'most powerful batsman' and 'best finisher' cricket has ever seen: Greg Chappell While speaking in an interaction on the Facebook handle of the Playwrite Foundation he said that he played a major role in shaping MS Dhoni's finishing skills. He talked about a match against Sri Lanka in 2005 where he had challenged Dhoni to "play along the ground" while he was hitting the balls outside the park. Greg said: "I remember his knock of 183 against Sri Lanka and how he tore them apart. It was power hitting at its very best. The next match was in Pune. I asked MS, 'why don't you play along the ground more instead of trying to hit every ball to the boundary'. We were chasing 260 odd and were in a good position and Dhoni was playing a contrasting inning to the one he had played just a couple of days before. "We still needed 20 runs to win and Dhoni asked me, through 12th man RP Singh if he could hit sixes. I told him not until the target was in single digit. When we needed six runs to win, he finished the game with a six," he said. He recalled that he used to challenge Dhoni to finish the game. "I always used to challenge him if he could finish the game. There used to be a booming smile on his face, whenever he used to score the winning runs. He is definitely the best finisher the game has ever seen," he signed off. This did not go down well with Harbhajan Singh, who took a dig at the former coach. He took to Twitter and said: "He asked Dhoni to play along the ground coz coach was hitting everyone out the park. He was playing different games #worstdaysofindiancricketundergreg." Greg Chappell era in the Indian cricket lasted between 2005 and 2007. This included India's 2007 World Cup campaign which is regarded as the worst run by the team after they got knocked out in the group stages. He had a well-known rift with former Indian skipper and current BCCI president Sourav Ganguly. He also had a bad impression on few senior players including Sachin Tendulkar.

'Worst days of Indian cricket': Harbhajan Singh slams Greg Chappell for taking credit for Dhoni's finishing skills

<p>Former Australian captain Greg Chappell’s tenure as the head coach of Indian cricket team may have been marred by controversies but the veteran remains highly impressed with MS Dhoni, who made his senior debut under his coaching. While disagreements with players became a common trend under Chappell, Team India went onto win 17 matches on the bounce while chasing with Dhoni playing a crucial role in the transition.</p>

<p>Chappell has said that the young Dhoni was the most exciting cricketer in India at that time and the ‘most powerful batsman’ he has ever seen. Chappell revealed that he was left awestruck when he saw Dhoni batting for the first time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I vividly remember that I was left awestruck when I saw him batting for the first time. He was definitely the most exciting cricketer in India at that time. He used to hit the ball from the most unusual positions. He is the most powerful batsman I have ever seen," Chappell said during a chat session on Facebook.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-singh-questions-ravi-shastris-go-out-and-play-your-game-approach-298388" hreflang="en">Yuvraj Singh questions Ravi Shastri's ‘go out and play your game' approach</a></strong></p>

<p>Chappell further revealed how Dhoni played a contrasting knock against Sri Lanka following his blistering 183 and how he asked the wicketkeeper-batsman to play along the ground and take Team India over the winning line. &nbsp;Chappell added that Dhoni is the ‘best finisher’ the game has ever seen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I remember his knock of 183 against Sri Lanka and how he tore them apart. It was power hitting at its very best. The next match was in Pune. I asked MS, 'why don't you play along the ground more instead of trying to hit every ball to the boundary'. We were chasing 260 odd and were in a good position and Dhoni was playing a contrasting inning to the one he had played just a couple of days before.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-reject-playing-ipl-2020-with-only-indian-players-says-it-will-be-similar-to-syed-mushtaq-ali-trophy-298286" hreflang="en">CSK reject playing IPL 2020 with only Indian players, says it will be similar to Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy</a></strong></p>

<p>"We still needed 20 runs to win and Dhoni asked me, through 12th man RP Singh if he could hit sixes. I told him not until the target was in single digit. When we needed six runs to win, he finished the game with a six," he said.</p>

<p>"I always used to challenge him if he could finish the game. There used to be a booming smile on his face, whenever he used to score the winning runs. He is definitely the best finisher the game has ever seen," he signed off.</p>

<p>Apart from becoming a chasing side in ODIs, Team India also won their maiden Test series in the West Indies after 35 years.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Former Australian captain Greg Chappell’s tenure as the head coach of Indian cricket team may have been marred by controversies but the veteran remains highly impressed with MS Dhoni, who made his senior debut under his coaching.

Former Australian captain Greg Chappell’s tenure as the head coach of Indian cricket team may have been marred by controversies but the veteran remains highly impressed with MS Dhoni, who made his senior debut under his coaching. While disagreements with players became a common trend under Chappell, Team India went onto win 17 matches on the bounce while chasing with Dhoni playing a crucial role in the transition. Chappell has said that the young Dhoni was the most exciting cricketer in India at that time and the ‘most powerful batsman’ he has ever seen. Chappell revealed that he was left awestruck when he saw Dhoni batting for the first time. "I vividly remember that I was left awestruck when I saw him batting for the first time. He was definitely the most exciting cricketer in India at that time. He used to hit the ball from the most unusual positions. He is the most powerful batsman I have ever seen," Chappell said during a chat session on Facebook. ALSO READ: Yuvraj Singh questions Ravi Shastri's ‘go out and play your game' approach Chappell further revealed how Dhoni played a contrasting knock against Sri Lanka following his blistering 183 and how he asked the wicketkeeper-batsman to play along the ground and take Team India over the winning line. Chappell added that Dhoni is the ‘best finisher’ the game has ever seen. "I remember his knock of 183 against Sri Lanka and how he tore them apart. It was power hitting at its very best. The next match was in Pune. I asked MS, 'why don't you play along the ground more instead of trying to hit every ball to the boundary'. We were chasing 260 odd and were in a good position and Dhoni was playing a contrasting inning to the one he had played just a couple of days before. ALSO READ: CSK reject playing IPL 2020 with only Indian players, says it will be similar to Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy "We still needed 20 runs to win and Dhoni asked me, through 12th man RP Singh if he could hit sixes. I told him not until the target was in single digit. When we needed six runs to win, he finished the game with a six," he said. "I always used to challenge him if he could finish the game. There used to be a booming smile on his face, whenever he used to score the winning runs. He is definitely the best finisher the game has ever seen," he signed off. Apart from becoming a chasing side in ODIs, Team India also won their maiden Test series in the West Indies after 35 years.

MS Dhoni 'most powerful batsman' and 'best finisher' cricket has ever seen: Greg Chappell

<p>Former India skipper and veteran cricketer, MS Dhoni has been long regarded as ‘Captain Cool’ for his ice-cool demeanour and the way he conducts himself during crunch matches. While fans and experts have long lauded his ability to keep calm during humdingers, Dhoni has said he too feels the pressure when he walks out to bat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni’s ability to remain unmoved during the pressure-situation has helped India win all the major ICC trophies under his captaincy and he remains the only captain to achieve the feat. However, the former Indian captain reckons that in India, people term weakness related to mental aspects as mental illness. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni has lent support to MFORE, who are offering mind conditioning programs to achieve optimum performance levels in sports. And as per MFORE, Dhoni made the comments while interacting with coaches from various sports, before India went into lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-icc-set-to-discuss-fate-of-t20-world-cup-report-297198" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia, ICC set to discuss fate of T20 World Cup: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>“In India, I feel there is still a big issue of accepting that there is some weakness when it comes to the mental aspects, but we generally term it as mental illness,” Dhoni was quoted as saying in a press release issued by MFORE.</p>

<p>“Nobody really says that, when I go to bat, the first 5 to 10 deliveries my heart rate is elevated, I feel the pressure, I feel a bit scared because that’s how everybody feels - how to cope with that?” the World Cup-winning legend asked.</p>

<p>“This is a small problem but a lot of times we hesitate to say it to a coach and that’s why the relationship between a player and coach is very important be it any sport,” said Dhoni, who hasn’t played any international cricket since India’s World Cup semifinal exit last July.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vizag-gas-leak-from-virat-kohli-to-yuvraj-singh-sports-fraternity-extend-condolences-to-families-affected-297176" hreflang="en">Vizag gas leak: From Virat Kohli to Yuvraj Singh, sports fraternity extend condolences to families affected</a></strong></p>

<p>Dhoni further emphasized on the need of having a regular mental conditioning coach and not someone who visits in 15 days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Mental conditioning coach should not be the one who comes for 15 days, because when you come for 15 days you are only sharing the experience.</p>

<p>“If the mental conditioning coach is constantly with the player, he can understand what are the areas which are affecting his sport,” Dhoni, who led Chennai Super Kings captain to three IPL titles, said.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Former India skipper and veteran cricketer, MS Dhoni has been long regarded as ‘Captain Cool’ for his ice-cool demeanour and the way he conducts himself during crunch matches.

Former India skipper and veteran cricketer, MS Dhoni has been long regarded as ‘Captain Cool’ for his ice-cool demeanour and the way he conducts himself during crunch matches. While fans and experts have long lauded his ability to keep calm during humdingers, Dhoni has said he too feels the pressure when he walks out to bat. Dhoni’s ability to remain unmoved during the pressure-situation has helped India win all the major ICC trophies under his captaincy and he remains the only captain to achieve the feat. However, the former Indian captain reckons that in India, people term weakness related to mental aspects as mental illness. Dhoni has lent support to MFORE, who are offering mind conditioning programs to achieve optimum performance levels in sports. And as per MFORE, Dhoni made the comments while interacting with coaches from various sports, before India went into lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia, ICC set to discuss fate of T20 World Cup: Report “In India, I feel there is still a big issue of accepting that there is some weakness when it comes to the mental aspects, but we generally term it as mental illness,” Dhoni was quoted as saying in a press release issued by MFORE. “Nobody really says that, when I go to bat, the first 5 to 10 deliveries my heart rate is elevated, I feel the pressure, I feel a bit scared because that’s how everybody feels - how to cope with that?” the World Cup-winning legend asked. “This is a small problem but a lot of times we hesitate to say it to a coach and that’s why the relationship between a player and coach is very important be it any sport,” said Dhoni, who hasn’t played any international cricket since India’s World Cup semifinal exit last July. ALSO READ: Vizag gas leak: From Virat Kohli to Yuvraj Singh, sports fraternity extend condolences to families affected Dhoni further emphasized on the need of having a regular mental conditioning coach and not someone who visits in 15 days. “Mental conditioning coach should not be the one who comes for 15 days, because when you come for 15 days you are only sharing the experience. “If the mental conditioning coach is constantly with the player, he can understand what are the areas which are affecting his sport,” Dhoni, who led Chennai Super Kings captain to three IPL titles, said.

"I too feel the pressure": MS Dhoni opens up on the issue of mental health

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