<p>India's numero uno T20I batter, Suryakumar Yadav, must be in the playing XI during the World Cup 2023, feels former CWC winner Harbhajan Singh. Bhajji, as most of Harbhajan's fans call him, insists what role Suryakumar plays is more difficult and in his position he is even better than Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Harbhajan also feels picking him ahead of fan-favourite Sanju Samson is the right call.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I feel Suryakumar Yadav is a complete, complete player. I don't think the selectors have been harsh on Sanju Samson. I do feel Sanju is a very very good player, a quality player. But you can only select 15 players. But picking Suryakumar over Sanju is the right call," Harbhajan said in a chat organised by Star Sports.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-kl-rahul-looking-fit-upon-joining-indian-team-in-colombo-ahead-of-pakistan-tie-633357">Asia Cup: KL Rahul 'looking fit' upon joining Indian Team in Colombo ahead of Pakistan tie</a></strong></p>

<p>There was always a debate as to whom to go ahead with — Sanju or Suryakumar Yadav for the middle-order slot in CWC. Although numbers suggest Sanju has a better ODI average (55.71 in 13 matches) than SKY — who averages a mere 24.33 in 24 outings, Harbhajan opines Suryakumar is a complete player — someone who can hit from the ball one, unlike anyone playing in that position.</p>

<p>"Because the game that Suryakumar has in the middle over[s], I don't think Sanju has that game. Even he goes for big shots from the first ball, but the reliability Suryakumar gives you — he can score big. Sanju, I feel plays the kind of cricket where there is a lot of chances that you get out," Harbhajan added.</p>

<p>Drawing comparisons with stalwarts of the game, Harbhajan said Surya (at number five or six) plays a similar role to Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni.</p>

<p>"What he can do at that position, neither Virat [Kohli] can do, nor Sanju or Rohit Sharma. Because what he does it's a difficult job, batting at [No.] 5-6. What [MS] Dhoni has done, what Yuvi [Yuvraj Singh] has done," Bhajji opined.</p>

<h2>SKY is better than any other Indian batter in finding gaps: Harbhajan</h2>

<p>The former off-spinner said instead of batting at the top, where it is easier to score runs, batting in the middle order in Indian conditions is far more difficult. Backing Surya to crack open the bowling attack with his supreme ability to find gaps at will in more challenging conditions makes him the best in business.</p>

<p>"Because batting there is the toughest," Harbhajan said. "Opening in [one-dayers], you know where to score runs. You have a lot of time. But when you go in to bat after 20-25 overs, you need the game to know where you can find gaps to get boundaries, and I don't think anyone in the Indian team can do that better than Suryakumar."</p>

<p>Harbhajan added he would have Suryakumar in the playing XI given his presence creates pressure on the opposition.</p>

<p>"And if it was up to me, I would play him in the team. Because when he is in the team, it increases the pressure on the opposition. Whether he fires or not. Because till the time he is at the crease, there will be pressure because on any day he can play a match-winning innings. He can hit 50-60 runs in 20 balls," Harbhajan concluded.</p>

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India's numero uno T20I batter, Suryakumar Yadav, must be in the playing XI during the World Cup 2023, feels former CWC winner Harbhajan Singh. Bhajji, as most of Harbhajan's fans call him, insists what role Suryakumar plays is more difficult and in his position he is even better than Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

India's numero uno T20I batter, Suryakumar Yadav, must be in the playing XI during the World Cup 2023, feels former CWC winner Harbhajan Singh. Bhajji, as most of Harbhajan's fans call him, insists what role Suryakumar plays is more difficult and in his position he is even better than Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Harbhajan also feels picking him ahead of fan-favourite Sanju Samson is the right call. "I feel Suryakumar Yadav is a complete, complete player. I don't think the selectors have been harsh on Sanju Samson. I do feel Sanju is a very very good player, a quality player. But you can only select 15 players. But picking Suryakumar over Sanju is the right call," Harbhajan said in a chat organised by Star Sports. ALSO READ: Asia Cup: KL Rahul 'looking fit' upon joining Indian Team in Colombo ahead of Pakistan tie There was always a debate as to whom to go ahead with — Sanju or Suryakumar Yadav for the middle-order slot in CWC. Although numbers suggest Sanju has a better ODI average (55.71 in 13 matches) than SKY — who averages a mere 24.33 in 24 outings, Harbhajan opines Suryakumar is a complete player — someone who can hit from the ball one, unlike anyone playing in that position. "Because the game that Suryakumar has in the middle over[s], I don't think Sanju has that game. Even he goes for big shots from the first ball, but the reliability Suryakumar gives you — he can score big. Sanju, I feel plays the kind of cricket where there is a lot of chances that you get out," Harbhajan added. Drawing comparisons with stalwarts of the game, Harbhajan said Surya (at number five or six) plays a similar role to Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni. "What he can do at that position, neither Virat [Kohli] can do, nor Sanju or Rohit Sharma. Because what he does it's a difficult job, batting at [No.] 5-6. What [MS] Dhoni has done, what Yuvi [Yuvraj Singh] has done," Bhajji opined. SKY is better than any other Indian batter in finding gaps: Harbhajan The former off-spinner said instead of batting at the top, where it is easier to score runs, batting in the middle order in Indian conditions is far more difficult. Backing Surya to crack open the bowling attack with his supreme ability to find gaps at will in more challenging conditions makes him the best in business. "Because batting there is the toughest," Harbhajan said. "Opening in [one-dayers], you know where to score runs. You have a lot of time. But when you go in to bat after 20-25 overs, you need the game to know where you can find gaps to get boundaries, and I don't think anyone in the Indian team can do that better than Suryakumar." Harbhajan added he would have Suryakumar in the playing XI given his presence creates pressure on the opposition. "And if it was up to me, I would play him in the team. Because when he is in the team, it increases the pressure on the opposition. Whether he fires or not. Because till the time he is at the crease, there will be pressure because on any day he can play a match-winning innings. He can hit 50-60 runs in 20 balls," Harbhajan concluded. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

CWC 2023: Picking 'gamechanger' Suryakumar ahead of Sanju was right call, says Harbhajan Singh

<p>Former Indian cricket team captain MS Dhoni was in attendance at the ongoing US Open in New York as he watched high-quality tennis at the iconic Arthur Ash Stadium on Wednesday (Thursday morning in India). Dhoni, a two-time World Cup-winning captain with the India team watched Carlos Alcaraz vs Alexander Zverev contest. The legendary cricketer was seen sitting with his friends as they enjoyed the classic encounter that was won by defending champion Alcaraz in straight sets.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The MS Dhoni cameo during the US Open Quarter Finals.<a href="https://t.co/Dfys7nafpI">pic.twitter.com/Dfys7nafpI</a></p>
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1699703869310476598?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Dhoni in attendance at the US Open</strong></h2>

<p>Wearing a maroon colour T-shirt, the 42-year-old posed with his friends as they enjoyed a long night of tennis. Defending Wimbledon and US Open champion, Alcaraz got the better of Olympic champion Zverev 6-3, 6-2, 6-4. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper is one of the most celebrated personalities in the world of cricket and is often seen at different sporting events.</p>

<p>In the past, the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Ravi Shastri have also attended tennis matches. Shastri was in attendance during the Wimbledon Championships in 2022 while Tendulkar also is often seen in the Royal Box at Wimbledon Championships.</p>

<p>Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz has reached the last four of the US Open 2023 men’s singles draw after a resounding 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 win against Olympic champion Alexander Zverev on Thursday, September 7. The clash at the Arthur Ash stadium saw the Spaniard dominate from the start as he broke his German opponent at the decisive stage while he was struggling with injuries. Alcaraz will now face 2021 US Open champions Daniil Medvedev in the semifinal on Friday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-2023-aryna-sabalenka-beats-chinas-zheng-qinwen-to-reach-semi-finals-633071">US Open 2023: Aryna Sabalenka beats China's Zheng Qinwen to reach semi-finals</a></p>

<h2><strong>What is up for grabs?</strong></h2>

<p>The semifinal ties are all set for a mouth-watering clash as Alcaraz bids to defend his title while 2021 champion Medvedev looks to reclaim his throne. The clash will be the fourth meeting between the pair, having also met at the same stage of the Wimbledon Championships earlier this year. The pair’s only hard court meeting came at the ATP Masters 1000 Indian Wells earlier this year when Alcaraz was again at the top. Medvedev’s only win against Alcaraz came at the 2021 Wimbledon Championships.</p>

<p>The winner of the semifinal contest will face the winner of the three-time champion Novak Djokovic and Ben Shelton clash in Sunday’s summit clash at the Arthur Ash Stadium.</p>

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Former Indian cricket team captain MS Dhoni was in attendance at the ongoing US Open in New York as he watched high-quality tennis at the iconic Arthur Ash Stadium on Wednesday (Thursday morning in India).

Former Indian cricket team captain MS Dhoni was in attendance at the ongoing US Open in New York as he watched high-quality tennis at the iconic Arthur Ash Stadium on Wednesday (Thursday morning in India). Dhoni, a two-time World Cup-winning captain with the India team watched Carlos Alcaraz vs Alexander Zverev contest. The legendary cricketer was seen sitting with his friends as they enjoyed the classic encounter that was won by defending champion Alcaraz in straight sets. The MS Dhoni cameo during the US Open Quarter Finals.pic.twitter.com/Dfys7nafpI — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) September 7, 2023 × Dhoni in attendance at the US Open Wearing a maroon colour T-shirt, the 42-year-old posed with his friends as they enjoyed a long night of tennis. Defending Wimbledon and US Open champion, Alcaraz got the better of Olympic champion Zverev 6-3, 6-2, 6-4. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper is one of the most celebrated personalities in the world of cricket and is often seen at different sporting events. In the past, the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Ravi Shastri have also attended tennis matches. Shastri was in attendance during the Wimbledon Championships in 2022 while Tendulkar also is often seen in the Royal Box at Wimbledon Championships. Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz has reached the last four of the US Open 2023 men’s singles draw after a resounding 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 win against Olympic champion Alexander Zverev on Thursday, September 7. The clash at the Arthur Ash stadium saw the Spaniard dominate from the start as he broke his German opponent at the decisive stage while he was struggling with injuries. Alcaraz will now face 2021 US Open champions Daniil Medvedev in the semifinal on Friday. ALSO READ | US Open 2023: Aryna Sabalenka beats China's Zheng Qinwen to reach semi-finals What is up for grabs? The semifinal ties are all set for a mouth-watering clash as Alcaraz bids to defend his title while 2021 champion Medvedev looks to reclaim his throne. The clash will be the fourth meeting between the pair, having also met at the same stage of the Wimbledon Championships earlier this year. The pair’s only hard court meeting came at the ATP Masters 1000 Indian Wells earlier this year when Alcaraz was again at the top. Medvedev’s only win against Alcaraz came at the 2021 Wimbledon Championships. The winner of the semifinal contest will face the winner of the three-time champion Novak Djokovic and Ben Shelton clash in Sunday’s summit clash at the Arthur Ash Stadium. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | MS Dhoni attends US Open quarterfinal clash between Carlos Alcaraz vs Alexander Zverev

<p>Veteran Indian pacer Ishant Sharma opined on the difference in captaincy between Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni and stated that the latter had groomed Indian bowlers before he stepped aside as the Test captain and handed over the reins to Kohli. Under Dhoni, India won 27 out of 60 Tests and led the side to the No. 1 ranking for the first time in late 2009. Kohli then went on to take the mantle forward and led exceptionally well to end with 40 wins from 68 Tests, the most by any Indian skipper. Recently, Ishant pointed out that while Kohli was very aggressive and defined the roles of every bowler, he was given a well-groomed bowling unit by his predecessor.</p>

<h2><strong>'What Dhoni did was groom the bowlers and left them with Virat'</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking to JioCinema, Ishant said, "He was the best. When Virat was captain, bowling was complete. When we were playing under Mahi&nbsp;<i>bhai</i>, we were in a transition phase. At that time, Shami and Umesh were new, and only I was there. Everyone else would rotate. Bhuvi was also new. There is no match for Mahi&nbsp;<i>bhai</i>&nbsp;as a communicator. But what he did was groom the bowlers and leave them with Virat. Shami and Umesh, over time, became different bowlers and then Jasprit came in. So, he got a complete package. The best thing he did was identify everyone’s traits, that he used to talk about one thing with one person and then Iet them be."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-career-highlight-is-winning-the-2011-odi-world-cup-says-virat-kohli-ahead-of-asia-cup-cwc-23-edition-630159">My career highlight is winning the 2011 ODI World Cup, says Virat Kohli ahead of Asia Cup, CWC '23 edition</a></strong></p>

<h2>'I realised Kohli wanted all of us to think out of the box'</h2>

<p>Ishant then shifted focus to Kohli as a Test captain and lauded the star batter's approach. "First thing, he was aggressive. If you’re bowling with the new ball, you can concede 25 runs in five overs as long as you take two wickets. The important thing was that he gave everyone defined roles. He used to tell me, ‘You have played enough matches, it’s now time for you to step up. Don’t bowl thinking you have to bowl in a particular area, now you have to find ways of getting wickets’. He went to Shami and said, ‘I know you can take wickets, but now I need you to bowl consistently. That you can bowl three overs as maidens’. He went to Bumrah and said, ‘This is your debut, you do what you do, but consistency is most important in Test cricket’. After 2021, I realised he wanted all of us to think out of the box," the 34-year-old added.</p>

<p>Under Dhoni, India was a dominant Test side at home but had only limited success overseas (such as a Test series win in New Zealand, and a 1-1 series draw versus hosts South Africa).&nbsp;Kohli-led national side remained lethal in familiar conditions and registered some famous wins while on the road (for instance, the 2-1 Border-Gavaskar Trophy triumph versus Australia in Australia, an unassailable 2-1 series lead versus England in the 2021 English summer, etc).</p>

<p>Kohli gave up the Test captaincy in early 2022, ending India's memorable era in whites.</p>

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Veteran Indian pacer Ishant Sharma opined on the difference in captaincy between Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni and stated that the latter had groomed Indian bowlers before he stepped aside as the Test captain and handed over the reins to Kohli.

Veteran Indian pacer Ishant Sharma opined on the difference in captaincy between Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni and stated that the latter had groomed Indian bowlers before he stepped aside as the Test captain and handed over the reins to Kohli. Under Dhoni, India won 27 out of 60 Tests and led the side to the No. 1 ranking for the first time in late 2009. Kohli then went on to take the mantle forward and led exceptionally well to end with 40 wins from 68 Tests, the most by any Indian skipper. Recently, Ishant pointed out that while Kohli was very aggressive and defined the roles of every bowler, he was given a well-groomed bowling unit by his predecessor. 'What Dhoni did was groom the bowlers and left them with Virat' Speaking to JioCinema, Ishant said, "He was the best. When Virat was captain, bowling was complete. When we were playing under Mahi bhai, we were in a transition phase. At that time, Shami and Umesh were new, and only I was there. Everyone else would rotate. Bhuvi was also new. There is no match for Mahi bhai as a communicator. But what he did was groom the bowlers and leave them with Virat. Shami and Umesh, over time, became different bowlers and then Jasprit came in. So, he got a complete package. The best thing he did was identify everyone’s traits, that he used to talk about one thing with one person and then Iet them be." Also read: My career highlight is winning the 2011 ODI World Cup, says Virat Kohli ahead of Asia Cup, CWC '23 edition 'I realised Kohli wanted all of us to think out of the box' Ishant then shifted focus to Kohli as a Test captain and lauded the star batter's approach. "First thing, he was aggressive. If you’re bowling with the new ball, you can concede 25 runs in five overs as long as you take two wickets. The important thing was that he gave everyone defined roles. He used to tell me, ‘You have played enough matches, it’s now time for you to step up. Don’t bowl thinking you have to bowl in a particular area, now you have to find ways of getting wickets’. He went to Shami and said, ‘I know you can take wickets, but now I need you to bowl consistently. That you can bowl three overs as maidens’. He went to Bumrah and said, ‘This is your debut, you do what you do, but consistency is most important in Test cricket’. After 2021, I realised he wanted all of us to think out of the box," the 34-year-old added. Under Dhoni, India was a dominant Test side at home but had only limited success overseas (such as a Test series win in New Zealand, and a 1-1 series draw versus hosts South Africa). Kohli-led national side remained lethal in familiar conditions and registered some famous wins while on the road (for instance, the 2-1 Border-Gavaskar Trophy triumph versus Australia in Australia, an unassailable 2-1 series lead versus England in the 2021 English summer, etc). Kohli gave up the Test captaincy in early 2022, ending India's memorable era in whites. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Dhoni groomed them and handed over to Kohli: Ishant Sharma on smooth transition of Indian bowlers

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India are gearing up for a litmus test in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2023 edition, to be hosted jointly by Sri Lanka and Pakistan. The continental tournament gets underway on August 30 with Pakistan hosting Nepal in Multan whereas the Men in Blue will open their campaign versus arch-rivals Babar Azam-led Men in Green on September 02 in Pallekele in the Island nation.</p>

<p>The Asia Cup holds a lot of significance as it will soon be followed by the 50-over ODI World Cup&nbsp;on home soil, which starts on October on 05 in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;Thus, the upcoming two multi-nation events will certainly define Rohit's captaincy tenure.</p>

<p>While India have a strong squad for the Asia Cup, Rohit-led Indian team management have a lot of decisions to make. The comeback duo, KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer will be closely monitored in the Asia Cup and their run will help the team decide whether to include them in the CWC '23 edition or not. Furthermore, it will be interesting to see if Yuzvendra Chahal makes the cut in the World Cup squad, having been overlooked for the Asia Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, Rohit stated that it's not about his favourite or coach Rahul Dravid's&nbsp;favourite to be in the squad but to get the players who will fit the&nbsp;conditions and team combination. Speaking to PTI, Hitman said, "Me, coaches, and selectors, take into account all factors like opposition, surfaces, our strengths, their weaknesses, and then reach a common ground. There is every chance that we will not be perfect always. At the end of the day, few individuals make decisions, and we are bound to make mistakes as humans. We won't always be right."</p>

<p>Hitman further opined, "'We have tried to communicate with the players after every selection and playing XI that has been announced. We talk to them face to face, one-on-one why they have not been picked. Sometimes, I try and put myself in their shoes. When I wasn't picked in 2011, it was such a heart-breaking moment for me and I felt what was left after being dropped from a World Cup squad?"</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wont-be-easy-for-india-or-any-team-former-pakistan-great-wasim-akram-on-asia-cup-2023-favourites-629936">Won't be easy for India or any team: Former Pakistan great Wasim Akram on Asia Cup 2023 favourites</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'I remember Yuvraj calling me to his room and....'</strong></h2>

<p>Rohit recalled the time when he was dropped for the 2011 ODI World Cup. He revealed how former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh helped him overcome the slump. "I was sad and sitting in my room and didn't know what to do next. I remember Yuvi calling me to his room and taking me out for dinner," Rohit asserted.</p>

<p>''He explained to me how it feels when you are left out. He told me, 'the best thing is that you have so many years in front of you. As we play in the World Cup, you take this chance to work hard on your game, and skills and make a comeback. There is no way that you won't play for India or not get a chance to play in the World Cup'."</p>

<p>Despite not being part of Dhoni-led India's victorious campaign in 2011, Rohit has redeemed himself in style and was the leading run-getter in the 2019 edition (648 runs with five hundreds). He will look for another prolific campaign in the forthcoming edition and help India lift the mega title at home.</p>

<p>It is to be noted that the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selectors have to name India's&nbsp;provisional World Cup squad&nbsp;in a week's time.&nbsp;</p>

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Rohit Sharma-led India are gearing up for a litmus test in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2023 edition, to be hosted jointly by Sri Lanka and Pakistan. The continental tournament gets underway on August 30 with Pakistan hosting Nepal in Multan whereas the Men in Blue will open their campaign versus arch-rivals Babar Azam-led Men in Green on September 02 in Pallekele in the Island nation.

Rohit Sharma-led India are gearing up for a litmus test in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2023 edition, to be hosted jointly by Sri Lanka and Pakistan. The continental tournament gets underway on August 30 with Pakistan hosting Nepal in Multan whereas the Men in Blue will open their campaign versus arch-rivals Babar Azam-led Men in Green on September 02 in Pallekele in the Island nation. The Asia Cup holds a lot of significance as it will soon be followed by the 50-over ODI World Cup on home soil, which starts on October on 05 in Ahmedabad. Thus, the upcoming two multi-nation events will certainly define Rohit's captaincy tenure. While India have a strong squad for the Asia Cup, Rohit-led Indian team management have a lot of decisions to make. The comeback duo, KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer will be closely monitored in the Asia Cup and their run will help the team decide whether to include them in the CWC '23 edition or not. Furthermore, it will be interesting to see if Yuzvendra Chahal makes the cut in the World Cup squad, having been overlooked for the Asia Cup. Recently, Rohit stated that it's not about his favourite or coach Rahul Dravid's favourite to be in the squad but to get the players who will fit the conditions and team combination. Speaking to PTI, Hitman said, "Me, coaches, and selectors, take into account all factors like opposition, surfaces, our strengths, their weaknesses, and then reach a common ground. There is every chance that we will not be perfect always. At the end of the day, few individuals make decisions, and we are bound to make mistakes as humans. We won't always be right." Hitman further opined, "'We have tried to communicate with the players after every selection and playing XI that has been announced. We talk to them face to face, one-on-one why they have not been picked. Sometimes, I try and put myself in their shoes. When I wasn't picked in 2011, it was such a heart-breaking moment for me and I felt what was left after being dropped from a World Cup squad?" Also read: Won't be easy for India or any team: Former Pakistan great Wasim Akram on Asia Cup 2023 favourites 'I remember Yuvraj calling me to his room and....' Rohit recalled the time when he was dropped for the 2011 ODI World Cup. He revealed how former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh helped him overcome the slump. "I was sad and sitting in my room and didn't know what to do next. I remember Yuvi calling me to his room and taking me out for dinner," Rohit asserted. ''He explained to me how it feels when you are left out. He told me, 'the best thing is that you have so many years in front of you. As we play in the World Cup, you take this chance to work hard on your game, and skills and make a comeback. There is no way that you won't play for India or not get a chance to play in the World Cup'." Despite not being part of Dhoni-led India's victorious campaign in 2011, Rohit has redeemed himself in style and was the leading run-getter in the 2019 edition (648 runs with five hundreds). He will look for another prolific campaign in the forthcoming edition and help India lift the mega title at home. It is to be noted that the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selectors have to name India's provisional World Cup squad in a week's time. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'The best thing is....': Indian captain Rohit Sharma recalls Yuvraj Singh's words after CWC '11 snub

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India&nbsp;will start their campaign in the 50-over World Cup on October 08, in Chennai, when they play Australia. India is&nbsp;hosting&nbsp;the forthcoming ICC ODI World Cup 2023, which gets underway on October 05 in Ahmedabad. Rohit &amp; Co. have a herculean task to end India's ten-year-long ICC title drought and replicate MS Dhoni-led India's historic run in the 2011 edition when they won the coveted title after 28 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir -- who played a pivotal role in Dhoni-led India's title run in 2011 -- schooled the social media users for being individual-obsessed as they don't give the entire Indian team enough credit for the championship win on home soil. During a freewheeling chat with RevSportz, Gambhir said, "Do we celebrate Yuvraj Singh enough for what he did in the 2011 World Cup with all the health concerns he had? Do we celebrate Zaheer Khan’s opening spell enough? To start off a World Cup final with four maiden overs is incredible, and yet he isn’t given enough credit."</p>

<p>"Do we celebrate Sachin Tendulkar’s efforts enough? Yes, we celebrate him and the win, but how many remember he was the highest scorer in the World Cup with two hundreds to his name? Do we celebrate Harbhajan Singh’s spell against Pakistan in Mohali, or Suresh Raina’s innings against Australia in Ahmedabad and Pakistan in Mohali? Both these innings were match-winning efforts,"&nbsp;Gambhir further stated.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-sachin-tendulkar-to-virat-kohli-top-6-indian-batters-with-most-50-plus-scores-in-odi-world-cups-628440">From Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli: Top 6 Indian Batters with Most 50-plus scores in ODI World Cups</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'While we celebrate MS Dhoni’s innings, we should celebrate these other efforts too'</strong></h2>

<p>Gambhir schooled the social media fans and pointed out their individual obsession and added, "While we celebrate MS Dhoni’s innings in the final, we should celebrate these other efforts as much. Not one innings could win India the trophy. It was a collective effort, and should be celebrated as such. It is because of social media that we don’t do it. Social media is biased and we all know that."</p>

<p>"But social media doesn’t make it the truth. There is always a tendency on social media to celebrate individuals more than the team. In doing so, what happens is we don’t celebrate key performers who had as much a part to play. And that’s an issue for sure. All I will say is we should celebrate the entire team. While we celebrate Dhoni, we should also celebrate the others who all played very important roles in the Indian win," he concluded.</p>

<p>Talking about the CWC '11 edition, India beat teams such as Australia, Pakistan, West Indies, Sri Lanka (in the final), etc. to win the championship at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on April 02. Tendulkar, Sehwag, Gambhir, Yuvraj (Player-of-the-Series), Virat Kohli and Raina played a solid part with the bat whereas Zaheer Khan, R Ashwin, Munaf Patel, Ashish Nehra, etc. also had an important part to play with the ball. Dhoni, who struggled throughout the tournament with the bat, saved his best for the summit clash as he came up with a match-winning 91 not out in India's chase of 272 versus the Islanders.</p>

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Rohit Sharma-led India will start their campaign in the 50-over World Cup on October 08, in Chennai, when they play Australia. India is hosting the forthcoming ICC ODI World Cup 2023, which gets underway on October 05 in Ahmedabad.

Rohit Sharma-led India will start their campaign in the 50-over World Cup on October 08, in Chennai, when they play Australia. India is hosting the forthcoming ICC ODI World Cup 2023, which gets underway on October 05 in Ahmedabad. Rohit & Co. have a herculean task to end India's ten-year-long ICC title drought and replicate MS Dhoni-led India's historic run in the 2011 edition when they won the coveted title after 28 years. Recently, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir -- who played a pivotal role in Dhoni-led India's title run in 2011 -- schooled the social media users for being individual-obsessed as they don't give the entire Indian team enough credit for the championship win on home soil. During a freewheeling chat with RevSportz, Gambhir said, "Do we celebrate Yuvraj Singh enough for what he did in the 2011 World Cup with all the health concerns he had? Do we celebrate Zaheer Khan’s opening spell enough? To start off a World Cup final with four maiden overs is incredible, and yet he isn’t given enough credit." "Do we celebrate Sachin Tendulkar’s efforts enough? Yes, we celebrate him and the win, but how many remember he was the highest scorer in the World Cup with two hundreds to his name? Do we celebrate Harbhajan Singh’s spell against Pakistan in Mohali, or Suresh Raina’s innings against Australia in Ahmedabad and Pakistan in Mohali? Both these innings were match-winning efforts," Gambhir further stated. Also read: From Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli: Top 6 Indian Batters with Most 50-plus scores in ODI World Cups 'While we celebrate MS Dhoni’s innings, we should celebrate these other efforts too' Gambhir schooled the social media fans and pointed out their individual obsession and added, "While we celebrate MS Dhoni’s innings in the final, we should celebrate these other efforts as much. Not one innings could win India the trophy. It was a collective effort, and should be celebrated as such. It is because of social media that we don’t do it. Social media is biased and we all know that." "But social media doesn’t make it the truth. There is always a tendency on social media to celebrate individuals more than the team. In doing so, what happens is we don’t celebrate key performers who had as much a part to play. And that’s an issue for sure. All I will say is we should celebrate the entire team. While we celebrate Dhoni, we should also celebrate the others who all played very important roles in the Indian win," he concluded. Talking about the CWC '11 edition, India beat teams such as Australia, Pakistan, West Indies, Sri Lanka (in the final), etc. to win the championship at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on April 02. Tendulkar, Sehwag, Gambhir, Yuvraj (Player-of-the-Series), Virat Kohli and Raina played a solid part with the bat whereas Zaheer Khan, R Ashwin, Munaf Patel, Ashish Nehra, etc. also had an important part to play with the ball. Dhoni, who struggled throughout the tournament with the bat, saved his best for the summit clash as he came up with a match-winning 91 not out in India's chase of 272 versus the Islanders. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Gambhir recalls Dhoni's CWC '11 final knock, schools social media users for being individual-obsessed

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidPwxfue4YP6cq" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Mahendra Singh Dhoni was one of the several excited citizens who waited to witness Chandrayaan-3's successful landing on Earth's Moon. On Wednesday, Mahendra Singh Dhoni had his eyes glued to the television like millions of other Indians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When the historic moment arrived at 06:04 pm IST, Dhoni reacted in a typical nonchalant fashion. India's former captain is famous for his calm and composed demeanour, on and off the cricket pitch. While others around him applauded, the cricketing legend clapped on his thighs. He was wearing a tank t-shirt and shorts. However, his reserved reaction does not imply a lack of enthusiasm. Anyone who knows MS Dhoni will understand that his behaviour during the most grand victories is serene.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many celebrities have reacted to the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 on social media. However, Mahendra Singh Dhoni is not very active on any such platform. Here's a video of him watching the iconic event.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Captain cool <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni</a> celebrating <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chandrayaan3?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chandrayaan3</a> success<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VikramLander?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VikramLander</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PragyanRover?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PragyanRover</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISRO</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MoonLanding?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MoonLanding</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaOnTheMoon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaOnTheMoon</a> <a href="https://t.co/1KKH70glm6">pic.twitter.com/1KKH70glm6</a></p>
— Vinod (@vinodgounder7) <a href="https://twitter.com/vinodgounder7/status/1694423461672915000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-on-the-moon-isro-chief-s-somanath-celebrates-chandrayaan-3s-triumph-on-lunar-landing-628420" target="_blank">‘India is on the moon’: ISRO chief S Somanath celebrates Chandrayaan-3's triumph on lunar landing</a></p>

<p>Chandrayaan-3, India's lunar mission, made a flawless soft landing near the yet-to-be-explored lunar south pole, marking an important milestone in India's space effort. This astounding feat ranks India among the four nations that have landed on the moon, and it is the only country to have landed in the unexplored lunar south pole area.</p>

<p>Despite retiring from international cricket, Dhoni continues to captain the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Under his leadership, CSK has won the IPL five times, including the 2023 season. Dhoni's particular batting style, remarkable finishing abilities under pressure, and aggressive yet calm captaincy have earned him the&nbsp;reputation of a great leader.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-2023-former-world-cup-winner-hails-tilak-varmas-impact-but-suggests-dont-let-him-be-in-the-playing-xi-628649" target="_blank">CWC 2023: Former World Cup winner hails Tilak Varma's impact but suggests 'don't let him be in the Playing XI'</a></p>

<p>Dhoni's enthusiasm extends beyond cricket. He is the&nbsp;co-owner of Ranchi Rays, a Ranchi hockey team, and Chennaiyin FC, a Chennai football club. He is also involved with several businesses, including a merchandising firm called Cool Maal and a lifestyle brand called SEVEN. In 2022, he invested in Shaka Harry, a plant-based protein firm.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Mahendra Singh Dhoni was one of the several excited citizens who waited to witness Chandrayaan-3's successful landing on Earth's Moon. On Wednesday, Mahendra Singh Dhoni had his eyes glued to the television like millions of other Indians.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni was one of the several excited citizens who waited to witness Chandrayaan-3's successful landing on Earth's Moon. On Wednesday, Mahendra Singh Dhoni had his eyes glued to the television like millions of other Indians. When the historic moment arrived at 06:04 pm IST, Dhoni reacted in a typical nonchalant fashion. India's former captain is famous for his calm and composed demeanour, on and off the cricket pitch. While others around him applauded, the cricketing legend clapped on his thighs. He was wearing a tank t-shirt and shorts. However, his reserved reaction does not imply a lack of enthusiasm. Anyone who knows MS Dhoni will understand that his behaviour during the most grand victories is serene. Many celebrities have reacted to the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 on social media. However, Mahendra Singh Dhoni is not very active on any such platform. Here's a video of him watching the iconic event. Captain cool #MSDhoni celebrating #Chandrayaan3 success#VikramLander #PragyanRover #ISRO #MoonLanding #India #IndiaOnTheMoon pic.twitter.com/1KKH70glm6 — Vinod (@vinodgounder7) August 23, 2023 × ALSO READ | ‘India is on the moon’: ISRO chief S Somanath celebrates Chandrayaan-3's triumph on lunar landing Chandrayaan-3, India's lunar mission, made a flawless soft landing near the yet-to-be-explored lunar south pole, marking an important milestone in India's space effort. This astounding feat ranks India among the four nations that have landed on the moon, and it is the only country to have landed in the unexplored lunar south pole area. Despite retiring from international cricket, Dhoni continues to captain the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Under his leadership, CSK has won the IPL five times, including the 2023 season. Dhoni's particular batting style, remarkable finishing abilities under pressure, and aggressive yet calm captaincy have earned him the reputation of a great leader. ALSO READ | CWC 2023: Former World Cup winner hails Tilak Varma's impact but suggests 'don't let him be in the Playing XI' Dhoni's enthusiasm extends beyond cricket. He is the co-owner of Ranchi Rays, a Ranchi hockey team, and Chennaiyin FC, a Chennai football club. He is also involved with several businesses, including a merchandising firm called Cool Maal and a lifestyle brand called SEVEN. In 2022, he invested in Shaka Harry, a plant-based protein firm. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Mahi Way! MS Dhoni celebrates successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 in his style

<p>India's middle-order woes know no end. In the run-up to the 2019 ODI World Cup, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team auditioned several batters to take up the No. 4 slot. While Ambati Rayudu looked confirmed for the slot, Vijay Shankar got the nod ahead of the former. In the World Cup, India struggled to fix the&nbsp;No. 4 position, but&nbsp;Shankar and Shikhar Dhawan's injuries added to their woes,&nbsp;and the Men in Blue bowed out in the semi-finals of the mega event. Post the 50-over ICC event, India had almost finalised Shreyas Iyer for the No. 4 slot whereas KL Rahul raised his stocks at No. 5, but injuries to the duo didn't solve Rohit Sharma-led India's problems.</p>

<p>Ahead of the Asia Cup, the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selectors announced a strong 17-man India squad for the continental tournament which includes both Rahul and Iyer. Both the batters have been deemed fit, although Rahul is carrying a niggle, and the two will get much-needed game time as India gear up for the Asia Cup, to be followed by the ODI World Cup at home. Before the Asia Cup, which commences on August 30, India's veteran spinner R Ashwin&nbsp;lauded Rahul and feels he has filled the No. 5 slot with expertise ever since Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni retired. During their playing days, Yuvi and Dhoni formed a lethal batting pair, often handling the No. 4 and 5 spot respectively, and bailed India out of crisis several times.</p>

<p>On his YouTube channel, Ashwin said, "Ever since Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni retired, India were desperately looking for a replacement. Rahul has filled that slot with expertise. He is a definite lock at No. 5 and is also our wicketkeeper-batsman."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-white-ball-spinner-better-than-him-in-india-harbhajan-on-chahals-asia-cup-snub-backs-him-for-cwc-23-628380">'No white-ball spinner better than him in India': Harbhajan on Chahal's Asia Cup snub, backs him for CWC '23</a></strong></p>

<p>According to Ashwin, Iyer and Rahul will take up the No. 4 and 5 spot, respectively, if fit, for the upcoming two mega events (Asia Cup and ODI WC). Both have proven their worth batting in the middle order with the best numbers since the 2019 ODI WC, but will be eager to get some match practice and runs under their belt in the upcoming month before the 50-over World Cup kicks off.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>India squad for Asia Cup 2023</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Prasidh Krishna</p>

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India's middle-order woes know no end. In the run-up to the 2019 ODI World Cup, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team auditioned several batters to take up the No. 4 slot.

India's middle-order woes know no end. In the run-up to the 2019 ODI World Cup, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team auditioned several batters to take up the No. 4 slot. While Ambati Rayudu looked confirmed for the slot, Vijay Shankar got the nod ahead of the former. In the World Cup, India struggled to fix the No. 4 position, but Shankar and Shikhar Dhawan's injuries added to their woes, and the Men in Blue bowed out in the semi-finals of the mega event. Post the 50-over ICC event, India had almost finalised Shreyas Iyer for the No. 4 slot whereas KL Rahul raised his stocks at No. 5, but injuries to the duo didn't solve Rohit Sharma-led India's problems. Ahead of the Asia Cup, the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selectors announced a strong 17-man India squad for the continental tournament which includes both Rahul and Iyer. Both the batters have been deemed fit, although Rahul is carrying a niggle, and the two will get much-needed game time as India gear up for the Asia Cup, to be followed by the ODI World Cup at home. Before the Asia Cup, which commences on August 30, India's veteran spinner R Ashwin lauded Rahul and feels he has filled the No. 5 slot with expertise ever since Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni retired. During their playing days, Yuvi and Dhoni formed a lethal batting pair, often handling the No. 4 and 5 spot respectively, and bailed India out of crisis several times. On his YouTube channel, Ashwin said, "Ever since Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni retired, India were desperately looking for a replacement. Rahul has filled that slot with expertise. He is a definite lock at No. 5 and is also our wicketkeeper-batsman." Also read: 'No white-ball spinner better than him in India': Harbhajan on Chahal's Asia Cup snub, backs him for CWC '23 According to Ashwin, Iyer and Rahul will take up the No. 4 and 5 spot, respectively, if fit, for the upcoming two mega events (Asia Cup and ODI WC). Both have proven their worth batting in the middle order with the best numbers since the 2019 ODI WC, but will be eager to get some match practice and runs under their belt in the upcoming month before the 50-over World Cup kicks off. India squad for Asia Cup 2023 Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Prasidh Krishna WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ever since Yuvraj and Dhoni retired, he has filled that slot: Ashwin heaps praise on Rahul ahead of Asia Cup

From Sachin Tendulkar to Kapil Dev: Top 6 Indians with most sixes in ODI World Cups

<p>Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar shared his take on India's 10-year-long ICC title drought since 2013. It is to be noted that Team India last won a mega event during the 2013 Champions Trophy, when MS Dhoni-led, inexperienced Indian&nbsp;line-up beat England in a rain-marred final, by five runs (DLS method), to lift the coveted title in England and Wales.</p>

<p>Since then, India have reached the final of mega events on four occasions (in T20 World Cup 2014, the 2017 Champions Trophy, the two WTC finals) and semi-finals on as many instances (during the 2015 and 2019 ODI World Cup, 2016 and 2022 T20 World Cup). However, they could not add to their trophy cabinet.</p>

<p>Akhar, in an interview with RevSportz, opined on India's empty trophy cabinet since 2013 and feels things have gone south for India ever since Dhoni stepped down as the captain. Under the legendary skipper, India won the 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. In addition, he led India to the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test Rankings.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'The moment Dhoni gave up captaincy, things went south for India'</strong></h2>

<p>Akhtar said, "First of all, it is the pressure that you all put on the team. It is almost impossible to play with such pressure. Like I told you, it is as if you can’t lose. If you, God forbid, lose, all hell will break loose."</p>

<p>He further opined, "The second and more important point is you had someone who could soak in all the pressure, and protect his teammates. He would not let his teammates feel the pressure, and that was the best thing about MS Dhoni. You won the 2007 World T20 under him, the 2011 World Cup and then the 2013 Champions Trophy. The moment Dhoni gave up the captaincy, things went south for India."</p>

<p>On the current Indian captain Rohit Sharma, who has already led India in two ICC events&nbsp;but not managed any success, the former Pakistani pacer stated, "When I see Rohit, I keep asking this question of myself if he should have accepted captaincy in the first place? I think Rohit feels panic on occasion and lets the pressure get to him. The pressure of captaincy cripples you, and it happened with Virat Kohli also. That’s why you don’t win a major tournament."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-sanju-samson-and-shreyas-iyer-harbhajan-singh-names-his-india-squad-for-asia-cup-2023-626652">No Sanju Samson and Shreyas Iyer! Harbhajan Singh names his India squad for Asia Cup 2023</a></strong></p>

<p>Akhtar added, "Make no mistake, Rohit does have the team to win the World Cup. As a batter, he is perhaps more talented than Virat Kohli also. He is a classical batsman and the kind of shots he plays, it is just mind-blowing. But with captaincy, is he being able to do that? Let him prove me wrong and all of us wrong, for that’s what all of India will want him to do in this World Cup."</p>

<p>Under Dhoni, India became temperamentally strong during crunch situations, concentrated more on fielding and running between wickets,&nbsp;and saw a smooth transition with the baton being passed to Virat Kohli, who was later replaced by Rohit as full-time captain early in 2022. Now, Rohit will look to end India's title drought with a win in the upcoming home ODI World Cup, set to begin on October 05 in Ahmedabad.</p>

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Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar shared his take on India's 10-year-long ICC title drought since 2013. It is to be noted that Team India last won a mega event during the 2013 Champions Trophy, when MS Dhoni-led, inexperienced Indian line-up beat England in a rain-marred final, by five runs (DLS method), to lift the coveted title in England and Wales.

Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar shared his take on India's 10-year-long ICC title drought since 2013. It is to be noted that Team India last won a mega event during the 2013 Champions Trophy, when MS Dhoni-led, inexperienced Indian line-up beat England in a rain-marred final, by five runs (DLS method), to lift the coveted title in England and Wales. Since then, India have reached the final of mega events on four occasions (in T20 World Cup 2014, the 2017 Champions Trophy, the two WTC finals) and semi-finals on as many instances (during the 2015 and 2019 ODI World Cup, 2016 and 2022 T20 World Cup). However, they could not add to their trophy cabinet. Akhar, in an interview with RevSportz, opined on India's empty trophy cabinet since 2013 and feels things have gone south for India ever since Dhoni stepped down as the captain. Under the legendary skipper, India won the 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. In addition, he led India to the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test Rankings. 'The moment Dhoni gave up captaincy, things went south for India' Akhtar said, "First of all, it is the pressure that you all put on the team. It is almost impossible to play with such pressure. Like I told you, it is as if you can’t lose. If you, God forbid, lose, all hell will break loose." He further opined, "The second and more important point is you had someone who could soak in all the pressure, and protect his teammates. He would not let his teammates feel the pressure, and that was the best thing about MS Dhoni. You won the 2007 World T20 under him, the 2011 World Cup and then the 2013 Champions Trophy. The moment Dhoni gave up the captaincy, things went south for India." On the current Indian captain Rohit Sharma, who has already led India in two ICC events but not managed any success, the former Pakistani pacer stated, "When I see Rohit, I keep asking this question of myself if he should have accepted captaincy in the first place? I think Rohit feels panic on occasion and lets the pressure get to him. The pressure of captaincy cripples you, and it happened with Virat Kohli also. That’s why you don’t win a major tournament." Also read: No Sanju Samson and Shreyas Iyer! Harbhajan Singh names his India squad for Asia Cup 2023 Akhtar added, "Make no mistake, Rohit does have the team to win the World Cup. As a batter, he is perhaps more talented than Virat Kohli also. He is a classical batsman and the kind of shots he plays, it is just mind-blowing. But with captaincy, is he being able to do that? Let him prove me wrong and all of us wrong, for that’s what all of India will want him to do in this World Cup." Under Dhoni, India became temperamentally strong during crunch situations, concentrated more on fielding and running between wickets, and saw a smooth transition with the baton being passed to Virat Kohli, who was later replaced by Rohit as full-time captain early in 2022. Now, Rohit will look to end India's title drought with a win in the upcoming home ODI World Cup, set to begin on October 05 in Ahmedabad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Moment MS Dhoni gave up captaincy, things went south: Akhtar on India's ICC title drought since 2013

From Sachin Tendulkar to Suresh Raina: Top six Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs)

<p>One of the rising stars of Sri Lankan cricket, Matheesha Pathirana has been in fine form and is the joint-highest wicket-taker in the ongoing Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2023 with his sublime sling action. The young pacer recently revealed that he has learned to perform well in T20 cricket from former Indian captain MS Dhoni.</p>

<p>Colombo Strikers' Pathirana played under the captaincy of Dhoni in the Indian league and termed the experience as a big learning point for him. "As a youngster, if someone gives you confidence like that, it boosts your career. A player of that level showed faith in me and I believed I can do anything in that moment. Not only me, Dhoni gave confidence to all of us. There were 4-5 top players who were injured and he showed his trust in youngsters which was great," commented Pathirana.</p>

<p>He added, "I learned a lot from Dhoni. The first thing is humbleness and that's why he is very successful. He is 42 and still the fittest cricketer which is really inspiring. When I went there, I was a kid and no one knew me and they trained and taught me several things. Now, I know how to perform in any T20 game and how to balance my four overs in a match. Dhoni told me if I keep my body away from injury then I can achieve a lot for the team and the country."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-needs-to-be-more-aggressive-kapil-dev-advises-indian-captain-cites-bazballs-example-626012">Rohit Sharma needs to be more aggressive: Kapil Dev advises Indian captain, cites Bazball's example</a></p>

<p>The bowler is also inspired by another superstar from the world of sports, Cristiano Ronaldo. He revealed, "We all know Cristiano Ronaldo and I am a fan of the footballer. So, I got inspired by his new celebration and now I am doing it as well.</p>

<p>Pathirana has taken 12 wickets in the LPL 2023 and revealed the moment he met Lasith Malinga, who is one of his idols.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He stated, "I am constantly trying to improve my action and bowling. Malinga was very happy when he met me because he saw someone more like him."</p>

<p>Colombo Strikers is led by Niroshan Dickwella, while the other participating teams in LPL are Dambulla Aura captained by Kusal Mendis, Galle Titans led by Dasun Shanaka, B-Love Kandy captained by Wanindu Hasaranga, and defending champions Jaffna Kings led by veteran Sri Lankan allrounder Thisara Perera.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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One of the rising stars of Sri Lankan cricket, Matheesha Pathirana has been in fine form and is the joint-highest wicket-taker in the ongoing Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2023 with his sublime sling action.

One of the rising stars of Sri Lankan cricket, Matheesha Pathirana has been in fine form and is the joint-highest wicket-taker in the ongoing Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2023 with his sublime sling action. The young pacer recently revealed that he has learned to perform well in T20 cricket from former Indian captain MS Dhoni. Colombo Strikers' Pathirana played under the captaincy of Dhoni in the Indian league and termed the experience as a big learning point for him. "As a youngster, if someone gives you confidence like that, it boosts your career. A player of that level showed faith in me and I believed I can do anything in that moment. Not only me, Dhoni gave confidence to all of us. There were 4-5 top players who were injured and he showed his trust in youngsters which was great," commented Pathirana. He added, "I learned a lot from Dhoni. The first thing is humbleness and that's why he is very successful. He is 42 and still the fittest cricketer which is really inspiring. When I went there, I was a kid and no one knew me and they trained and taught me several things. Now, I know how to perform in any T20 game and how to balance my four overs in a match. Dhoni told me if I keep my body away from injury then I can achieve a lot for the team and the country." ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma needs to be more aggressive: Kapil Dev advises Indian captain, cites Bazball's example The bowler is also inspired by another superstar from the world of sports, Cristiano Ronaldo. He revealed, "We all know Cristiano Ronaldo and I am a fan of the footballer. So, I got inspired by his new celebration and now I am doing it as well. Pathirana has taken 12 wickets in the LPL 2023 and revealed the moment he met Lasith Malinga, who is one of his idols. He stated, "I am constantly trying to improve my action and bowling. Malinga was very happy when he met me because he saw someone more like him." Colombo Strikers is led by Niroshan Dickwella, while the other participating teams in LPL are Dambulla Aura captained by Kusal Mendis, Galle Titans led by Dasun Shanaka, B-Love Kandy captained by Wanindu Hasaranga, and defending champions Jaffna Kings led by veteran Sri Lankan allrounder Thisara Perera. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Dhoni taught me to how to perform well in T20 cricket - Matheesha Pathirana

<p>India’s stand-in T20I captain Hardik Pandya faced severe criticism for not letting Tilak Varma complete his successive fifty against West Indies. During the 3rd T20I in Guyana, Pandya hit a six to wrap up the chase even when Varma, standing on the other side, was playing on 49*. Speaking on the same, former cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra said Pandya doesn’t have to be like MS Dhoni, even if he admires the ex-India captain.</p>

<p>On the one hand, a section of fans and pundits lashed out at Pandya for unnecessarily going for the winning shot even when around two overs were left, others, including Chopra, were of a different opinion – questioning why landmarks are being talked about in this format.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In reference to Pandya’s instance, Chopra reminded about the 2014 T20 World Cup semis instance against South Africa, when MS Dhoni played a forward defense to avoid hitting the winning run because Virat Kohli was standing on the other end, having played a gem of an inning (67 off 42 balls at that time).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/low-on-runs-samson-gill-can-make-it-big-in-usa-as-india-eye-to-level-t20i-series-against-west-indies-624743">Low on runs Samson, Gill can make it big in USA as India eye to level T20I series against West Indies</a></p>

<p>"It's an interesting one. Hardik Pandya has been trolled a lot and has been criticised. But there's another school of thought that says, why are you talking about milestones in T20 cricket? So, that was quite in the middle of a conversation," Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube Channel.</p>

<p>"I remember once MS Dhoni played a forward defensive shot because there was Virat Kohli at the other end. He wanted him to finish it off, he didn't want to take the limelight. But Hardik doesn't have to be a Dhoni, even if he considers him an idol," Chopra added.</p>

<h2>Tilak Varma&nbsp;impresses Chopra</h2>

<p>Tilak Varma is one name everyone has been chatting about – and why not, as he has proved to be India's best batter in the three T20Is played so far. After missing out on his debut fifty, though he slammed two sixes off the first two balls of his international career, Varma came good in the second match, completing his maiden half-century in this format.</p>

<p>His range of shots has impressed everyone, and Chopra is not different. Considering Tilak knows about his role, it makes his and everyone else’s job easy.</p>

<p>"Tilak Varma, outstanding. First Indian to get 30+ scores in his first three international innings. He scored a fifty in his previous games and was close to another this time too, in fact, it should've been a fifty. His temperament is good, his range is good, he was aggressive at first and then was happy to play second-fiddle to Suryakumar," Chopra had earlier said on his channel.</p>

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India’s stand-in T20I captain Hardik Pandya faced severe criticism for not letting Tilak Varma complete his successive fifty against West Indies. During the 3rd T20I in Guyana, Pandya hit a six to wrap up the chase even when Varma, standing on the other side, was playing on 49*.

India’s stand-in T20I captain Hardik Pandya faced severe criticism for not letting Tilak Varma complete his successive fifty against West Indies. During the 3rd T20I in Guyana, Pandya hit a six to wrap up the chase even when Varma, standing on the other side, was playing on 49*. Speaking on the same, former cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra said Pandya doesn’t have to be like MS Dhoni, even if he admires the ex-India captain. On the one hand, a section of fans and pundits lashed out at Pandya for unnecessarily going for the winning shot even when around two overs were left, others, including Chopra, were of a different opinion – questioning why landmarks are being talked about in this format. In reference to Pandya’s instance, Chopra reminded about the 2014 T20 World Cup semis instance against South Africa, when MS Dhoni played a forward defense to avoid hitting the winning run because Virat Kohli was standing on the other end, having played a gem of an inning (67 off 42 balls at that time). ALSO READ: Low on runs Samson, Gill can make it big in USA as India eye to level T20I series against West Indies "It's an interesting one. Hardik Pandya has been trolled a lot and has been criticised. But there's another school of thought that says, why are you talking about milestones in T20 cricket? So, that was quite in the middle of a conversation," Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube Channel. "I remember once MS Dhoni played a forward defensive shot because there was Virat Kohli at the other end. He wanted him to finish it off, he didn't want to take the limelight. But Hardik doesn't have to be a Dhoni, even if he considers him an idol," Chopra added. Tilak Varma impresses Chopra Tilak Varma is one name everyone has been chatting about – and why not, as he has proved to be India's best batter in the three T20Is played so far. After missing out on his debut fifty, though he slammed two sixes off the first two balls of his international career, Varma came good in the second match, completing his maiden half-century in this format. His range of shots has impressed everyone, and Chopra is not different. Considering Tilak knows about his role, it makes his and everyone else’s job easy. "Tilak Varma, outstanding. First Indian to get 30+ scores in his first three international innings. He scored a fifty in his previous games and was close to another this time too, in fact, it should've been a fifty. His temperament is good, his range is good, he was aggressive at first and then was happy to play second-fiddle to Suryakumar," Chopra had earlier said on his channel. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Hardik Pandya doesn't have to be MS Dhoni, even if he considers him an idol: Aakash Chopra

From Rohit Sharma to Hardik Pandya: Top six Indian batters with most T20I sixes

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India is gearing up for the forthcoming home ODI World Cup (ODI WC), which will kick off early October. The Men in Blue will be sweating it out in the 22-yard cricket strip to win the title after 12 years. Back in the 2011 edition, the MS Dhoni-led Indian team went past several heavyweights to lift the coveted trophy after a gap of 28 years and become the first side&nbsp;to clinch a home 50-over WC.</p>

<p>Thus, Rohit &amp; Co. will have their task cut out to replicate Dhoni-led India's 12-year-old feat. As Hitman recently attended one of the legs of the World Cup Trophy Tour, in Barbados, the 36-year-old recalled some bittersweet memories from the 2011 edition, when he wasn't part of the triumphant Indian squad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit recalled India's contrasting runs in 2003 and 2007 edition and said, "In 2003, India played really well up until the finals. You know, Sachin Tendulkar was amazing with the bat, scored so many runs. And then comes the 2007 World Cup where we didn't have a great time, and didn't even qualify after the league stage, so that was quite unfortunate."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-skipper-hardik-pandya-laments-not-a-pleasing-batting-performance-after-loss-in-second-t20i-623022">India vs WI: Skipper Hardik Pandya laments 'not a pleasing batting performance' after loss in second T20I</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'I decided I was not going to watch the World Cup, but again...'</strong></h2>

<p>Sharing his memories from the 2011 edition, Rohit opined, "2011 was a memorable one for all of us, I remember watching it from home, every single match, every single ball which was being bowled and that was being played. There were two kinds of emotions, one was obviously I was not a part of it, so I was a little disappointed. I decided I was not going to watch the World Cup, but again, the second memory I remember was that India was playing so well, the quarter-finals onwards."</p>

<p>"You know, the big quarter-final was against Australia. I know how the pressure is on all these players when playing these games. I can only imagine the pressure that each player must have gone through at that time, and then the semi-finals against Australia. It was a brilliant finish by Yuvi and Raina at the end," he added.</p>

<p>Rohit, who was part of India's 2007 T20 World Cup win, didn't make it to the 2011 ODI WC squad. Back then, India trusted Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina and Yusuf Pathan to bolster the middle and lower-order but Hitman failed to make the cut owing to his inconsistency.</p>

<p>During the 2011 edition, India beat teams such as Australia, Pakistan, West Indies, Sri Lanka (in the final), etc. to win the trophy. In this year's tournament, Rohit &amp; Co. will open their campaign versus Australia, in Chennai, on October 08 and aim to go the distance and win the championship&nbsp;once again, after 2011, and end their ten-year-long ICC title drought.</p>

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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Rohit Sharma-led India is gearing up for the forthcoming home ODI World Cup (ODI WC), which will kick off early October. The Men in Blue will be sweating it out in the 22-yard cricket strip to win the title after 12 years.

Rohit Sharma-led India is gearing up for the forthcoming home ODI World Cup (ODI WC), which will kick off early October. The Men in Blue will be sweating it out in the 22-yard cricket strip to win the title after 12 years. Back in the 2011 edition, the MS Dhoni-led Indian team went past several heavyweights to lift the coveted trophy after a gap of 28 years and become the first side to clinch a home 50-over WC. Thus, Rohit & Co. will have their task cut out to replicate Dhoni-led India's 12-year-old feat. As Hitman recently attended one of the legs of the World Cup Trophy Tour, in Barbados, the 36-year-old recalled some bittersweet memories from the 2011 edition, when he wasn't part of the triumphant Indian squad. Rohit recalled India's contrasting runs in 2003 and 2007 edition and said, "In 2003, India played really well up until the finals. You know, Sachin Tendulkar was amazing with the bat, scored so many runs. And then comes the 2007 World Cup where we didn't have a great time, and didn't even qualify after the league stage, so that was quite unfortunate." Also read: India vs WI: Skipper Hardik Pandya laments 'not a pleasing batting performance' after loss in second T20I 'I decided I was not going to watch the World Cup, but again...' Sharing his memories from the 2011 edition, Rohit opined, "2011 was a memorable one for all of us, I remember watching it from home, every single match, every single ball which was being bowled and that was being played. There were two kinds of emotions, one was obviously I was not a part of it, so I was a little disappointed. I decided I was not going to watch the World Cup, but again, the second memory I remember was that India was playing so well, the quarter-finals onwards." "You know, the big quarter-final was against Australia. I know how the pressure is on all these players when playing these games. I can only imagine the pressure that each player must have gone through at that time, and then the semi-finals against Australia. It was a brilliant finish by Yuvi and Raina at the end," he added. Rohit, who was part of India's 2007 T20 World Cup win, didn't make it to the 2011 ODI WC squad. Back then, India trusted Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina and Yusuf Pathan to bolster the middle and lower-order but Hitman failed to make the cut owing to his inconsistency. During the 2011 edition, India beat teams such as Australia, Pakistan, West Indies, Sri Lanka (in the final), etc. to win the trophy. In this year's tournament, Rohit & Co. will open their campaign versus Australia, in Chennai, on October 08 and aim to go the distance and win the championship once again, after 2011, and end their ten-year-long ICC title drought. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Decided not to watch 2011 ODI World Cup: Indian captain Rohit Sharma shares bittersweet memories

<p>Former India captain MS Dhoni underwent surgery on his troubling knee following the end of IPL 2023. MS Dhoni's wife, Sakshi Dhoni, in a recent interaction with a set of fans during a movie screening, provided the latest update.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It's fair to say the grit and unwavering dedication MS Dhoni showed throughout the tournament while playing with the troubled knee is commendable. A fighter at heart, Dhoni, ensured he remained available for the team but also captained his side to the joint-most fifth IPL title, beating Gujarat Titans in a three-day rain-hit final in Ahmedabad.</p>

<p>Even during the tournament that many thought to be his last as a professional cricketer, Dhoni decided to keep his cards (retirement plans) close to his chest and instead gave his beloved fans a glimmer of hope of watching him return to the field for one last time next season in IPL 2024.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tentative-dates-for-icc-mens-t20-world-cup-2024-announced-venues-shortlisted-for-20-team-event-620489">Tentative dates for ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 announced, venues shortlisted for 20-team event</a></p>

<p>Upon being asked for the nth time by presenter Harsha Bhogle after the IPL 2023 final, Dhoni said this probably would be the best time for him to announce his retirement; but given how much love and support he received during the season, Dhoni would like to return for fans next season also.</p>

<p>"...It would take 6-7 months to decide. It will be more like a gift from my side. It’s not easy for me, but the way they have shown their love and affection, that’s something that I need to do," Captain MS said when asked about his retirement plans.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Here's what Sakshi said about MS Dhoni</h2>

<p>In a viral video doing rounds on social media, a set of fans were recorded asking Sakshi about Dhoni's knee injury status, to which his wife said,</p>

<p>"He is recovering. He is in rehab."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH THE VIDEO HERE -</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Fans asked "How is Mahi Bhai" to Sakshi.<br />
<br />
📹 (MSD7.Imran / Instagram) <a href="https://t.co/XH7Ec7qzOu">pic.twitter.com/XH7Ec7qzOu</a></p>
— CricketGully (@thecricketgully) <a href="https://twitter.com/thecricketgully/status/1684880502304780288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h3>Dhoni's brigade broke shackles with title win</h3>

<p>MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings wasn't the best team on paper, and despite bagging some big names like Ben Stokes (injured during IPL 2023), they didn't look like making the final two.</p>

<p>However, with Dhoni on side, CSK supporters backed the former champions to beat the odds, and without much surprises, that only happened. With out of favour cricketers (Ajinkya Rahane and Shivam Dube) pulling up the socks at the right moment, Dhoni's CSK made the cut.</p>

<p>On the back of some incredible team performance, Chennai reached the finals, and during the all-important clash, they beat defending champions Gujarat Titans in a crucial chase by five wickets to win IPL 2023.</p>

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Former India captain MS Dhoni underwent surgery on his troubling knee following the end of IPL 2023. MS Dhoni's wife, Sakshi Dhoni, in a recent interaction with a set of fans during a movie screening, provided the latest update.

Former India captain MS Dhoni underwent surgery on his troubling knee following the end of IPL 2023. MS Dhoni's wife, Sakshi Dhoni, in a recent interaction with a set of fans during a movie screening, provided the latest update. It's fair to say the grit and unwavering dedication MS Dhoni showed throughout the tournament while playing with the troubled knee is commendable. A fighter at heart, Dhoni, ensured he remained available for the team but also captained his side to the joint-most fifth IPL title, beating Gujarat Titans in a three-day rain-hit final in Ahmedabad. Even during the tournament that many thought to be his last as a professional cricketer, Dhoni decided to keep his cards (retirement plans) close to his chest and instead gave his beloved fans a glimmer of hope of watching him return to the field for one last time next season in IPL 2024. ALSO READ: Tentative dates for ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 announced, venues shortlisted for 20-team event Upon being asked for the nth time by presenter Harsha Bhogle after the IPL 2023 final, Dhoni said this probably would be the best time for him to announce his retirement; but given how much love and support he received during the season, Dhoni would like to return for fans next season also. "...It would take 6-7 months to decide. It will be more like a gift from my side. It’s not easy for me, but the way they have shown their love and affection, that’s something that I need to do," Captain MS said when asked about his retirement plans. Here's what Sakshi said about MS Dhoni In a viral video doing rounds on social media, a set of fans were recorded asking Sakshi about Dhoni's knee injury status, to which his wife said, "He is recovering. He is in rehab." WATCH THE VIDEO HERE - Fans asked "How is Mahi Bhai" to Sakshi. 📹 (MSD7.Imran / Instagram) pic.twitter.com/XH7Ec7qzOu — CricketGully (@thecricketgully) July 28, 2023 × Dhoni's brigade broke shackles with title win MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings wasn't the best team on paper, and despite bagging some big names like Ben Stokes (injured during IPL 2023), they didn't look like making the final two. However, with Dhoni on side, CSK supporters backed the former champions to beat the odds, and without much surprises, that only happened. With out of favour cricketers (Ajinkya Rahane and Shivam Dube) pulling up the socks at the right moment, Dhoni's CSK made the cut. On the back of some incredible team performance, Chennai reached the finals, and during the all-important clash, they beat defending champions Gujarat Titans in a crucial chase by five wickets to win IPL 2023. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wife Sakshi provides latest update on MS Dhoni's knee injury, says 'he is recovering...' - WATCH

<p>Former India and CSK batsman Ambati Rayudu has quashed rumours of a possible rift between Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja during the 2022 season. Jadeja was named skipper of CSK in 2022 but after a spate of losses, Dhoni took over the reins mid-season. There were rumours of Jadeja not being very happy about it but Rayudu has a different thought&nbsp;on the matter. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"I don't think Jaddu (Jadeja) was upset with Mahi bhai at all. It was just that he was sad because the team wasn't doing great. Everyone's performances that year were not coming up to the mark," Rayudu said on BehindWoodsTV Youtube channel. Notably, CSK had finished second last on the points table in the 2022 season.</p>

<p>Rayudu, who retired from all IPL after the 2023 IPL season, also said that it was MS Dhoni who nurtured Jadeja for 10-12 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-skipper-rohit-sharma-praises-virat-kohli-after-series-win-against-west-indies-619156">India skipper Rohit Sharma praises Virat Kohli after series win against West Indies</a></p>

<p>"He (Dhoni) has put this team and has made Jaddu (Jadeja) what he is today. He has nurtured him for what, 10-12 years. So he would naturally be happy that the product that he made has won the final for CSK after whatever happened last year," said Rayudu.</p>

<p>Jadeja won the 2023 IPL trophy for CSK in a dramatic manner after hitting two boundaries on the last two balls of the final. It was CSK's fifth IP trophy - taking them on par with Mumbai Indians for most IPL titles.</p>

<p>As for the CSK, speculations have been ripe with who is going lead the side when Dhoni retires. The 42-year-old wicketkeeper is speculated to have retired after the end of this season. Dhoni, however, made no such announcements after the end of IPL.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, the Jadeja experiment as the captain of the side didn't work out as the franchise would have wanted and the team might look at some other options in the future. A few names which have come forward as Dhoni's potential successor are opening batsman Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ajinkya Rahane as well.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Former India and CSK batsman Ambati Rayudu has quashed rumours of a possible rift between Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja during the 2022 season. Jadeja was named skipper of CSK in 2022 but after a spate of losses, Dhoni took over the reins mid-season.

Former India and CSK batsman Ambati Rayudu has quashed rumours of a possible rift between Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja during the 2022 season. Jadeja was named skipper of CSK in 2022 but after a spate of losses, Dhoni took over the reins mid-season. There were rumours of Jadeja not being very happy about it but Rayudu has a different thought on the matter. "I don't think Jaddu (Jadeja) was upset with Mahi bhai at all. It was just that he was sad because the team wasn't doing great. Everyone's performances that year were not coming up to the mark," Rayudu said on BehindWoodsTV Youtube channel. Notably, CSK had finished second last on the points table in the 2022 season. Rayudu, who retired from all IPL after the 2023 IPL season, also said that it was MS Dhoni who nurtured Jadeja for 10-12 years. Also Read: India skipper Rohit Sharma praises Virat Kohli after series win against West Indies "He (Dhoni) has put this team and has made Jaddu (Jadeja) what he is today. He has nurtured him for what, 10-12 years. So he would naturally be happy that the product that he made has won the final for CSK after whatever happened last year," said Rayudu. Jadeja won the 2023 IPL trophy for CSK in a dramatic manner after hitting two boundaries on the last two balls of the final. It was CSK's fifth IP trophy - taking them on par with Mumbai Indians for most IPL titles. As for the CSK, speculations have been ripe with who is going lead the side when Dhoni retires. The 42-year-old wicketkeeper is speculated to have retired after the end of this season. Dhoni, however, made no such announcements after the end of IPL. Nonetheless, the Jadeja experiment as the captain of the side didn't work out as the franchise would have wanted and the team might look at some other options in the future. A few names which have come forward as Dhoni's potential successor are opening batsman Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ajinkya Rahane as well. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ex-CSK batter Ambati Rayudu opens up on alleged Ravindra Jadeja-MS Dhoni 2022 rift

<p>Virat Kohli will become the tenth player to enter the 500-match club in international cricket when India face West Indies on Day One of the second and final Test at Port-of-Spain in Trinidad. Among Indians, he will become only the fourth player to reach the coveted 500-mark. Sachin Tendulkar is the most capped player (664) in international cricket whereas the likes of MS Dhoni (538) and current head coach Rahul Dravid (509) come second and third, respectively, in terms of most international caps. Thus, Kohli is set to add another feather to his illustrious hat on Thursday (July 20).</p>

<p>Ahead of his landmark international appearance, Kohli, in a video shared on BCCI's official Twitter handle,&nbsp;said, "I'm really grateful. I feel very blessed that I have had such a long journey playing for India and such a long Test career. Because I really had to work hard for it and it makes you feel happy about the hard work that you have put in to see the longevity in the game and the results over the years as well. So, I'm very grateful."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">500 &amp; Counting 😃<br />
<br />
Hear from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Head Coach Rahul Dravid and milestone man Virat Kohli ahead of a special occasion 👌🏻👌🏻<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/cJBA7CVcOj">pic.twitter.com/cJBA7CVcOj</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1681915293650800640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-4th-test-australia-will-be-disappointed-says-ponting-after-cummins-co-end-day-1-at-299-for-8-617723">Ashes, 4th Test: Australia will be disappointed, says Ponting after Cummins &amp; Co. end Day 1 at 299 for 8</a></strong></p>

<p>India's head coach Dravid also congratulated Kohli on his historic achievement and lauded him for being 'a real inspiration to so many players in the current team and boys and girls back home'.</p>

<p>As per BCCI, in a recent press conference, Dravid stated, "Virat is a real inspiration to so many players, in the team as well many players look up to him.&nbsp; Obviously, his numbers and stats speak for themselves it's all in the books. The effort and work that he puts in behind the scene when no one is watching is incredible. I think that has carried him to play 500 games, he is very fit and still going very strong. That's not easy, he has made a lot of sacrifices and put in a lot of hard work."</p>

<p>He added, "It's nice to see Virat's journey. He has come a long way. Over the last 18 months, I've got to know him personally, and I have learned a lot from him."</p>

<p>So far, Kohli has represented India in&nbsp;110 Tests,&nbsp;274 ODIs and 115 T20Is. Debuting in 2008, he soon became someone India can rely on&nbsp;across all formats and the batter has broken several records at the highest level. He has slammed 75 international tons and scored over 25,000 runs overall.&nbsp;</p>

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Virat Kohli will become the tenth player to enter the 500-match club in international cricket when India face West Indies on Day One of the second and final Test at Port-of-Spain in Trinidad.

Virat Kohli will become the tenth player to enter the 500-match club in international cricket when India face West Indies on Day One of the second and final Test at Port-of-Spain in Trinidad. Among Indians, he will become only the fourth player to reach the coveted 500-mark. Sachin Tendulkar is the most capped player (664) in international cricket whereas the likes of MS Dhoni (538) and current head coach Rahul Dravid (509) come second and third, respectively, in terms of most international caps. Thus, Kohli is set to add another feather to his illustrious hat on Thursday (July 20). Ahead of his landmark international appearance, Kohli, in a video shared on BCCI's official Twitter handle, said, "I'm really grateful. I feel very blessed that I have had such a long journey playing for India and such a long Test career. Because I really had to work hard for it and it makes you feel happy about the hard work that you have put in to see the longevity in the game and the results over the years as well. So, I'm very grateful." 500 & Counting 😃 Hear from #TeamIndia Head Coach Rahul Dravid and milestone man Virat Kohli ahead of a special occasion 👌🏻👌🏻#WIvIND | @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/cJBA7CVcOj — BCCI (@BCCI) July 20, 2023 × Also read: Ashes, 4th Test: Australia will be disappointed, says Ponting after Cummins & Co. end Day 1 at 299 for 8 India's head coach Dravid also congratulated Kohli on his historic achievement and lauded him for being 'a real inspiration to so many players in the current team and boys and girls back home'. As per BCCI, in a recent press conference, Dravid stated, "Virat is a real inspiration to so many players, in the team as well many players look up to him. Obviously, his numbers and stats speak for themselves it's all in the books. The effort and work that he puts in behind the scene when no one is watching is incredible. I think that has carried him to play 500 games, he is very fit and still going very strong. That's not easy, he has made a lot of sacrifices and put in a lot of hard work." He added, "It's nice to see Virat's journey. He has come a long way. Over the last 18 months, I've got to know him personally, and I have learned a lot from him." So far, Kohli has represented India in 110 Tests, 274 ODIs and 115 T20Is. Debuting in 2008, he soon became someone India can rely on across all formats and the batter has broken several records at the highest level. He has slammed 75 international tons and scored over 25,000 runs overall. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Virat Kohli's 500th int'l game: Indian star reacts ahead of landmark appearance in WI vs IND 2nd Test - Watch

<p>With three ICC trophies and five Indian Premier League (IPL) titles to his name, MS Dhoni is one of the finest cricket captains ever to play the sport. The former India skipper’s glorious trophy cabinet is enough to dazzle fans. Dhoni’s prestigious trophy room may very well hypnotise viewers, but his collection of bikes and cars is no less spectacular. Former India cricketer Venkatesh Prasad shared a video of Dhoni’s huge garage in Ranchi. The now-viral clip, which according to The Indian Express was shot by Dhoni’s wife Sakshi, reveals the World Cup-winning captain’s majestic collection of automobiles.</p>

<p>“One of the craziest passions I have seen in a person. What a collection and what a man MSD is. A great achiever and an even more incredible person. This is a glimpse of his collection of bikes and cars in his Ranchi house. Just blown away by the man and his passion,” Prasad tweeted.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-76ers-star-joel-embiid-just-wants-to-win-championship-in-philly-or-anywhere-else-616923">NBA: 76ers star Joel Embiid just wants to win Championship 'in Philly or anywhere else'</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">One of the craziest passion i have seen in a person. What a collection and what a man MSD is . A great achiever and a even more incredible person. This is a glimpse of his collection of bikes and cars in his Ranchi house.<br />
Just blown away by the man and his passion <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/avtYwVNNOz">pic.twitter.com/avtYwVNNOz</a></p>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1681011927244500992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The video starts with Sakshi asking Venkatesh Prasad about his feelings of being in Ranchi.</p>

<p>Responding to Sakshi’s query, the former Indian pacer said, “Amazing! No, not all (not my first time in Ranchi). It’s my fourth time, but this place (Dhoni’s garage in Ranchi) is crazy.”</p>

<p>In the video, Sakshi was even heard asking her husband, “Why Mahi why? What was the need for this?”</p>

<p>To this, Dhoni cheekily replied, “Because you took everything and I needed to have something of my own. This is the only thing you are allowed.”</p>

<p>MS Dhoni, who possesses a mind-boggling collection of vintage cars and superbikes, welcomed a new member to his garage earlier this year.</p>

<p>An article published by The Economic Times reported that in February 2023, the Chennai Super Kings skipper bought a TVS Ronin motorcycle, which is powered by a 225.9 cc single-cylinder engine. The report also claimed that last year, Dhoni was seen leaving his training session with the TVS Apache RR 310.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/victoria-pulls-the-plug-australia-commonwealth-games-2026-cancelled-due-to-funding-shortfall-616870">Commonwealth Games 2026: Australia cancels event amid shortage of funds</a></strong></p>

<p>Coming back to on-field developments, MS Dhoni was last seen in action during this year’s IPL. Leading Chennai Super Kings, Dhoni guided the franchise to their record-equalling fifth IPL title.</p>

<p>The fifth IPL trophy helped Dhoni in becoming the joint-most successful skipper, along with Rohit Sharma, in the history of the competition.</p>

<p>In IPL 2023, Dhoni also became the first player to lead a side in 200 matches. Overall, the 42-year-old has so far taken part in 250 IPL games.</p>

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With three ICC trophies and five Indian Premier League (IPL) titles to his name, MS Dhoni is one of the finest cricket captains ever to play the sport. The former India skipper’s glorious trophy cabinet is enough to dazzle fans.

With three ICC trophies and five Indian Premier League (IPL) titles to his name, MS Dhoni is one of the finest cricket captains ever to play the sport. The former India skipper’s glorious trophy cabinet is enough to dazzle fans. Dhoni’s prestigious trophy room may very well hypnotise viewers, but his collection of bikes and cars is no less spectacular. Former India cricketer Venkatesh Prasad shared a video of Dhoni’s huge garage in Ranchi. The now-viral clip, which according to The Indian Express was shot by Dhoni’s wife Sakshi, reveals the World Cup-winning captain’s majestic collection of automobiles. “One of the craziest passions I have seen in a person. What a collection and what a man MSD is. A great achiever and an even more incredible person. This is a glimpse of his collection of bikes and cars in his Ranchi house. Just blown away by the man and his passion,” Prasad tweeted. Also read: NBA: 76ers star Joel Embiid just wants to win Championship 'in Philly or anywhere else' One of the craziest passion i have seen in a person. What a collection and what a man MSD is . A great achiever and a even more incredible person. This is a glimpse of his collection of bikes and cars in his Ranchi house. Just blown away by the man and his passion @msdhoni pic.twitter.com/avtYwVNNOz — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) July 17, 2023 × The video starts with Sakshi asking Venkatesh Prasad about his feelings of being in Ranchi. Responding to Sakshi’s query, the former Indian pacer said, “Amazing! No, not all (not my first time in Ranchi). It’s my fourth time, but this place (Dhoni’s garage in Ranchi) is crazy.” In the video, Sakshi was even heard asking her husband, “Why Mahi why? What was the need for this?” To this, Dhoni cheekily replied, “Because you took everything and I needed to have something of my own. This is the only thing you are allowed.” MS Dhoni, who possesses a mind-boggling collection of vintage cars and superbikes, welcomed a new member to his garage earlier this year. An article published by The Economic Times reported that in February 2023, the Chennai Super Kings skipper bought a TVS Ronin motorcycle, which is powered by a 225.9 cc single-cylinder engine. The report also claimed that last year, Dhoni was seen leaving his training session with the TVS Apache RR 310. Also read: Commonwealth Games 2026: Australia cancels event amid shortage of funds Coming back to on-field developments, MS Dhoni was last seen in action during this year’s IPL. Leading Chennai Super Kings, Dhoni guided the franchise to their record-equalling fifth IPL title. The fifth IPL trophy helped Dhoni in becoming the joint-most successful skipper, along with Rohit Sharma, in the history of the competition. In IPL 2023, Dhoni also became the first player to lead a side in 200 matches. Overall, the 42-year-old has so far taken part in 250 IPL games. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Craziest Passion': Venkatesh Prasad on MS Dhoni’s massive bike collection

<p>Team India thrashed West Indies by an innings and 141 runs in the two-match Test series opener in Dominica. The second and final Test kicks off on July 20 in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad. In recent years, India have dominated the red-ball format and also reached the knockouts in all ICC events, barring the 2021 T20 World Cup, but have failed to win the&nbsp;silverware.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Little Master Sunil Gavaskar recently took a dig at modern-day Indian captains and how they enjoy enough security despite not being able to win ICC titles or facing heavy defeats. Gavaskar feels there should be more accountability to be taken by the captains and coaches of the team.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'This has been happening since 2011'</strong></h2>

<p>"Whether you win or lose, the captain knows that he is going to be there. This has not been a recent case, mind you. This has been happening since 2011. There have been results where we have been wiped out in the series 0-4, 0-4 but the captain hasn't changed," said former India captain Gavaskar while speaking to&nbsp;the Indian Express Idea Exchange.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-2nd-test-virat-kohli-closes-gap-with-sachin-tendulkar-in-elite-list-after-surpassing-ms-dhoni-616582">WI vs IND: Virat Kohli closes gap with Sachin Tendulkar in elite list after surpassing MS Dhoni in Dominica</a></strong></p>

<p>Gavaskar's statement can perhaps be seen as a question towards MS Dhoni, the former Indian skipper. While Dhoni enjoyed good success as a white-ball captain, India were miserable during their away tours of England (in 2011/12 and 2014), Australia (in 2011/12) and South Africa&nbsp;and New Zealand (in&nbsp;2013/14) under the former Indian wicketkeeper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Dhoni retained the Test captaincy until he retired from the format in late 2014 during the Australia tour. From thereon, Virat Kohli took over and led India to the No. 1 ranking (with the team faring well in away tours as well).</p>

<p>Similarly, the likes of Kohli and Rohit Sharma have not led India to an ICC title&nbsp;after the end of Dhoni's successful era as the white-ball skipper. However, Kohli remained Test and T20I captain till the time he decided to step aside, but was sacked as the ODI skipper.</p>

<p>After India's 2021-23 WTC final loss to Australia, many raised fingers at Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid as well. However, the duo continue to hold their respective posts. But things might change if India fail to win the ICC ODI World Cup, at home, later this year.</p>

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Team India thrashed West Indies by an innings and 141 runs in the two-match Test series opener in Dominica. The second and final Test kicks off on July 20 in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad.

Team India thrashed West Indies by an innings and 141 runs in the two-match Test series opener in Dominica. The second and final Test kicks off on July 20 in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad. In recent years, India have dominated the red-ball format and also reached the knockouts in all ICC events, barring the 2021 T20 World Cup, but have failed to win the silverware. Little Master Sunil Gavaskar recently took a dig at modern-day Indian captains and how they enjoy enough security despite not being able to win ICC titles or facing heavy defeats. Gavaskar feels there should be more accountability to be taken by the captains and coaches of the team. 'This has been happening since 2011' "Whether you win or lose, the captain knows that he is going to be there. This has not been a recent case, mind you. This has been happening since 2011. There have been results where we have been wiped out in the series 0-4, 0-4 but the captain hasn't changed," said former India captain Gavaskar while speaking to the Indian Express Idea Exchange. Also Read: WI vs IND: Virat Kohli closes gap with Sachin Tendulkar in elite list after surpassing MS Dhoni in Dominica Gavaskar's statement can perhaps be seen as a question towards MS Dhoni, the former Indian skipper. While Dhoni enjoyed good success as a white-ball captain, India were miserable during their away tours of England (in 2011/12 and 2014), Australia (in 2011/12) and South Africa and New Zealand (in 2013/14) under the former Indian wicketkeeper. However, Dhoni retained the Test captaincy until he retired from the format in late 2014 during the Australia tour. From thereon, Virat Kohli took over and led India to the No. 1 ranking (with the team faring well in away tours as well). Similarly, the likes of Kohli and Rohit Sharma have not led India to an ICC title after the end of Dhoni's successful era as the white-ball skipper. However, Kohli remained Test and T20I captain till the time he decided to step aside, but was sacked as the ODI skipper. After India's 2021-23 WTC final loss to Australia, many raised fingers at Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid as well. However, the duo continue to hold their respective posts. But things might change if India fail to win the ICC ODI World Cup, at home, later this year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'We've been wiped out 0-4 but....': Sunil Gavaskar wants Indian captains to be more liable for heavy defeats

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India thrashed West Indies by an innings and 141 runs in the two-match Test series opener in Dominica on July 14. With this win, former Indian captain Virat Kohli surpassed ex-skipper MS Dhoni in an elite list. It was the 296th time when Kohli ended on the winning side for Team India, overtaking Dhoni (295) and has now closed the gap with Sachin Tendulkar (307).</p>

<p>Tendulkar, who represented India from 1989-2013, played 200 Tests, 463 ODIs and a solitary T20I. During his illustrious career, he was involved in 307 wins with the national side. Dhoni, with over 500 internationals, comes second and Kohli features in the third spot in the elite list. He is now 12 wins away from overtaking the Master Blaster and achieving the top spot.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-his-biggest-quality-is-indias-batting-coach-on-virat-kohli-backs-him-to-score-a-ton-soon-616516">WI vs IND: 'His biggest quality is...' - India's batting coach backs Virat Kohli to score a ton soon</a></strong></p>

<p>Kohli has represented India in 110 Tests, 274 ODIs and 115 T20Is since making his debut in 2008. He has been India's backbone in the batting line-up and started the India-West Indies Test series&nbsp;with an impressive 76 in the opening match. In the series opener&nbsp;in Dominica, Team India rode on R Ashwin's 12-wicket haul and debutant Yashasvi Jaiswal's 171 to beat Kraigg Brathwaite &amp; Co. by an innings and 141 runs to open their account in style in the 2023-25 WTC cycle.</p>

<p>Kohli will now like to add another win to his tally during the second and final Test and move closer to breaking Tendulkar's record by late 2023.&nbsp;</p>

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Rohit Sharma-led India thrashed West Indies by an innings and 141 runs in the two-match Test series opener in Dominica on July 14. With this win, former Indian captain Virat Kohli surpassed ex-skipper MS Dhoni in an elite list.

Rohit Sharma-led India thrashed West Indies by an innings and 141 runs in the two-match Test series opener in Dominica on July 14. With this win, former Indian captain Virat Kohli surpassed ex-skipper MS Dhoni in an elite list. It was the 296th time when Kohli ended on the winning side for Team India, overtaking Dhoni (295) and has now closed the gap with Sachin Tendulkar (307). Tendulkar, who represented India from 1989-2013, played 200 Tests, 463 ODIs and a solitary T20I. During his illustrious career, he was involved in 307 wins with the national side. Dhoni, with over 500 internationals, comes second and Kohli features in the third spot in the elite list. He is now 12 wins away from overtaking the Master Blaster and achieving the top spot. Also Read: WI vs IND: 'His biggest quality is...' - India's batting coach backs Virat Kohli to score a ton soon Kohli has represented India in 110 Tests, 274 ODIs and 115 T20Is since making his debut in 2008. He has been India's backbone in the batting line-up and started the India-West Indies Test series with an impressive 76 in the opening match. In the series opener in Dominica, Team India rode on R Ashwin's 12-wicket haul and debutant Yashasvi Jaiswal's 171 to beat Kraigg Brathwaite & Co. by an innings and 141 runs to open their account in style in the 2023-25 WTC cycle. Kohli will now like to add another win to his tally during the second and final Test and move closer to breaking Tendulkar's record by late 2023. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WI vs IND: Virat Kohli closes gap with Sachin Tendulkar in elite list after surpassing MS Dhoni in Dominica

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced a second-string squad for the upcoming Asian Games. With ICC ODI World Cup starting on October 5, a young Indian team led by Ruturaj Gaikwad will take part in the regional multi-sports tournament. The BCCI handed a lot of fringe players their maiden call-up in the T20I side and Rinku Singh is one of them.</p>

<p>Rinku shot to fame during the last IPL with Kolkata Knight Riders when he smashed five sixes off the last five balls of the match to take his team home. Speaking to RevSportz on his selection, Rinku said he'll dedicate his India debut to his family who has watched his struggles from close quarters.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/at-2022-ipl-auction-they-promised-me-heartbroken-yuzvendra-chahal-on-not-getting-picked-by-rcb-616232">'At 2022 IPL auction, they promised me...': Heartbroken Yuzvendra Chahal on not getting picked by RCB</a></p>

<p>“Everyone dreams to play for India, wear that jersey. I don’t think a lot about the future because the more you think, the more burden you put yourself under. I take life as one day at a time. But yes, whoever takes up professional sports wants to represent their country one day or the other,” Rinku said.</p>

<p>“I know for a fact that my family, my parents will be happier than me to see me wear the Indian jersey. They have been waiting for this for years now. They have seen my struggle, they have helped me, been with me through all my ups and downs. The day I don the jersey will be a day dedicated to them,” he added.</p>

<p>The southpaw also revealed how talking to former India skipper MS Dhoni during the IPL 2023 helped him.</p>

<p>"The chatter with Mahi bhai (MS Dhoni) was really productive. He has also batted in similar numbers as I do – at 5 or 6 – and he has done it for the majority of his career and knows the position in and out. I simply asked him how to better my game, and his advice was very simple: You are batting really well. Continue whatever you have done so far,” said Rinku.</p>

<p>The Asian Games start September 23 with the cricket tournament starting a day later.</p>

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced a second-string squad for the upcoming Asian Games. With ICC ODI World Cup starting on October 5, a young Indian team led by Ruturaj Gaikwad will take part in the regional multi-sports tournament.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced a second-string squad for the upcoming Asian Games. With ICC ODI World Cup starting on October 5, a young Indian team led by Ruturaj Gaikwad will take part in the regional multi-sports tournament. The BCCI handed a lot of fringe players their maiden call-up in the T20I side and Rinku Singh is one of them. Rinku shot to fame during the last IPL with Kolkata Knight Riders when he smashed five sixes off the last five balls of the match to take his team home. Speaking to RevSportz on his selection, Rinku said he'll dedicate his India debut to his family who has watched his struggles from close quarters. Also Read: 'At 2022 IPL auction, they promised me...': Heartbroken Yuzvendra Chahal on not getting picked by RCB “Everyone dreams to play for India, wear that jersey. I don’t think a lot about the future because the more you think, the more burden you put yourself under. I take life as one day at a time. But yes, whoever takes up professional sports wants to represent their country one day or the other,” Rinku said. “I know for a fact that my family, my parents will be happier than me to see me wear the Indian jersey. They have been waiting for this for years now. They have seen my struggle, they have helped me, been with me through all my ups and downs. The day I don the jersey will be a day dedicated to them,” he added. The southpaw also revealed how talking to former India skipper MS Dhoni during the IPL 2023 helped him. "The chatter with Mahi bhai (MS Dhoni) was really productive. He has also batted in similar numbers as I do – at 5 or 6 – and he has done it for the majority of his career and knows the position in and out. I simply asked him how to better my game, and his advice was very simple: You are batting really well. Continue whatever you have done so far,” said Rinku. The Asian Games start September 23 with the cricket tournament starting a day later. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'His advice was...,' Rinku Singh reveals MS Dhoni's words of wisdom after maiden India call up

<p>MS Dhoni shares a great rapport with several current Indian players. Often, the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and the likes have expressed their gratitude towards the former Indian captain for guiding them during their early days. Since 2018, Dhoni's relationship with Deepak Chahar has also been talked about. The two have been playing for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) since their readmission in the Indian Premier League in 2018 and share a great camaraderie on and outside the field.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Chahar is Dhoni's go-to-bowler, especially, in the early overs, he has improved bowling at the death as well under his Chennai captain's guidance. Nonetheless, Chahar has also been scolded by the former Indian captain on the field. Recently, Dhoni shed light on his relationship with Chahar in a hilarious manner.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'In my lifetime, I won't see him mature'</strong></h2>

<p>"Deepak Chahar is like a drug, if he is not there, you would think, where is he - if he is around, you would think, why he is here - good part is that he is maturing but he takes time and that is the problem, in my lifetime, I won't see him matured (smiles)," Dhoni said during the launch of Tamil film <em>Lets Get Married</em>, under his own&nbsp;production company called the Dhoni Entertainment.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-reminds-me-of-darren-gough-james-anderson-lauds-mark-wood-after-his-splendid-performance-in-3rd-ashes-test-614321">He reminds me of Darren Gough: James Anderson lauds Mark Wood after his splendid performance in 3rd Ashes Test</a></strong></p>

<p>During IPL 2023, Chahar claimed 13 wickets in 10 games and played a pivotal role in Dhoni-led Chennai's fifth IPL title. Talking about the skipper, Thala Dhoni marshalled his troops brilliantly, kept well behind the stumps and smacked as many as 10 sixes while playing several vital cameos throughout the season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At present, Chahar is not part of India's squads for the upcoming West Indies tour, where the national side will play two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. Meanwhile, the 42-year-old Dhoni is busy with his non-cricketing assignments and not much his known whether he will return for IPL 2024. After leading his side to the IPL 2023 triumph, he stated that he will try to come back but nothing is official.</p>


MS Dhoni shares a great rapport with several current Indian players. Often, the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and the likes have expressed their gratitude towards the former Indian captain for guiding them during their early days.

MS Dhoni shares a great rapport with several current Indian players. Often, the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and the likes have expressed their gratitude towards the former Indian captain for guiding them during their early days. Since 2018, Dhoni's relationship with Deepak Chahar has also been talked about. The two have been playing for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) since their readmission in the Indian Premier League in 2018 and share a great camaraderie on and outside the field. While Chahar is Dhoni's go-to-bowler, especially, in the early overs, he has improved bowling at the death as well under his Chennai captain's guidance. Nonetheless, Chahar has also been scolded by the former Indian captain on the field. Recently, Dhoni shed light on his relationship with Chahar in a hilarious manner. 'In my lifetime, I won't see him mature' "Deepak Chahar is like a drug, if he is not there, you would think, where is he - if he is around, you would think, why he is here - good part is that he is maturing but he takes time and that is the problem, in my lifetime, I won't see him matured (smiles)," Dhoni said during the launch of Tamil film Lets Get Married, under his own production company called the Dhoni Entertainment. Also Read: He reminds me of Darren Gough: James Anderson lauds Mark Wood after his splendid performance in 3rd Ashes Test During IPL 2023, Chahar claimed 13 wickets in 10 games and played a pivotal role in Dhoni-led Chennai's fifth IPL title. Talking about the skipper, Thala Dhoni marshalled his troops brilliantly, kept well behind the stumps and smacked as many as 10 sixes while playing several vital cameos throughout the season. At present, Chahar is not part of India's squads for the upcoming West Indies tour, where the national side will play two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. Meanwhile, the 42-year-old Dhoni is busy with his non-cricketing assignments and not much his known whether he will return for IPL 2024. After leading his side to the IPL 2023 triumph, he stated that he will try to come back but nothing is official.

In my lifetime, I won’t see him mature: MS Dhoni’s hilarious take on CSK teammate Deepak Chahar

<p>Indian cricket team had to face a heart-breaking 2019 World Cup exit in the semi-final against New Zealand on this day. Ravindra Jadeja and MS Dhoni, during the run chase, stitched a solid partnership of 116 to keep Team India alive in the contest. Chasing a target of 240, Virat Kohli’s men fell short by 18 runs. After Jadeja’s dismissal in the 48th over, Indian cricket fans pinned their hopes on Dhoni. One of the finest finishers in the history of cricket, Dhoni seemed poised to take Team India over the line having scored a half-century. But Dhoni’s knock came to an end in the penultimate over after he was run out by a stunning direct hit from Martin Guptill. In an otherwise miserable outing with the bat, it was Jadeja who turned out to be Team India’s solitary ray of hope against the Kiwis. But the star all-rounder’s blistering knock of 59-ball 77 went in vain eventually. A video of Jadeja’s stellar semi-final knock has now gone viral on social media.</p>

<h2>How did Twitter react?</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ravindra Jadeja played one of the greatest knocks On This Day in 2019, India 92/6 in the Semi-final &amp; he scored 77 runs from just 59 balls under huge pressure.<br />
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This fight-back will be remembered forever!<a href="https://t.co/H0H5z3yZNv">pic.twitter.com/H0H5z3yZNv</a></p>
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1678228401516335104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Coming down to bat at 92/6 in the 31st over, Ravindra Jadeja came up with a remarkable knock of 77 runs off 59 balls. His resilient innings comprised four boundaries and as many sixes. Lavishing huge praise on Jadeja, one Twitter user wrote, “The only man we had faith in, that day.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-over-the-moon-ben-stokes-hails-trio-of-woods-woakes-and-moeen-after-critical-win-at-headingley-613724">Ashes 2023: 'Over the moon' Ben Stokes hails trio of Woods, Woakes and Moeen after critical win at Headingley</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The only man we had faith on that day</p>
— 82 Carnage🇮🇳 (@82carnage) <a href="https://twitter.com/82carnage/status/1678228875351040001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>This person still could not get over India’s 2019 World Cup defeat at the hands of New Zealand.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">4 years on. It's still heartbreaking to think about this day. I'm not sure why people keep posting about this match. For me, it's the saddest day as a cricket fan.</p>
— Saankhya Mondal (@saankhyaCFC8) <a href="https://twitter.com/saankhyaCFC8/status/1678255278402469889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>One social media user termed Ravindra Jadeja’s courageous knock as “one of the greatest” ones of all time.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This really has to be one of thegreatest innings of all time. India were in immense pressure and this man kept us alive. Take a bow Jadeja🙇🏻‍♂️</p>
— Sarthak Sengupta (@cricssg7) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricssg7/status/1678235140328177665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>“Ravindra Jadeja is one of the best ODI cricketers in the world, especially in last six or seven years or so,” wrote another person.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ravindra Jadeja is one of the best ODI cricketers in the world, especially since the last 6 or 7 years or so.</p>
— AK 7-4 (@Anshuma12603770) <a href="https://twitter.com/Anshuma12603770/status/1678255889818451969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Here are some other reactions.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Still hurts</p>
— Rahul Sahni 🇮🇳 (@RahulSahni0903) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulSahni0903/status/1678242500564205570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Jadeja and DHONI both the wickets 💔</p>
— Nikhil Raj 🌶️ (@nikhilraj515) <a href="https://twitter.com/nikhilraj515/status/1678255715281178625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Still hurts</p>
— Dineshdk27 (@Dk27criccini) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dk27criccini/status/1678231300384124929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Still hurts to this day!</p>
— Ram (@ramdhaw) <a href="https://twitter.com/ramdhaw/status/1678261348839440384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-leeds-win-tops-my-list-to-do-it-on-my-home-ground-was-very-good-says-local-boy-harry-brook-613672">Ashes 2023: 'Leeds win tops my list, to do it on my home ground was very good,' says local boy Harry Brook</a></strong></p>

<h2>Team India’s collapse</h2>

<p>Batting first, New Zealand posted 239 runs in 50 overs. Ross Taylor emerged as his side’s highest scorer in that fixture with a fine knock of 74. Bhuvneshwar Kumar displayed a sublime performance picking up four wickets in the semi-final. Team India’s run chase suffered a big jolt having lost their opening batters in first four overs. New Zealand pacer Matt Henry ran through the Indian top-order to gain an upper hand for his side. Half of the Indian team went back to the dressing room scoring just 71 runs. Henry scalped three wickets in the match to bowl out India for 221.</p>

<h2>&nbsp;</h2>


Indian cricket team had to face a heart-breaking 2019 World Cup exit in the semi-final against New Zealand on this day. Ravindra Jadeja and MS Dhoni, during the run chase, stitched a solid partnership of 116 to keep Team India alive in the contest.

Indian cricket team had to face a heart-breaking 2019 World Cup exit in the semi-final against New Zealand on this day. Ravindra Jadeja and MS Dhoni, during the run chase, stitched a solid partnership of 116 to keep Team India alive in the contest. Chasing a target of 240, Virat Kohli’s men fell short by 18 runs. After Jadeja’s dismissal in the 48th over, Indian cricket fans pinned their hopes on Dhoni. One of the finest finishers in the history of cricket, Dhoni seemed poised to take Team India over the line having scored a half-century. But Dhoni’s knock came to an end in the penultimate over after he was run out by a stunning direct hit from Martin Guptill. In an otherwise miserable outing with the bat, it was Jadeja who turned out to be Team India’s solitary ray of hope against the Kiwis. But the star all-rounder’s blistering knock of 59-ball 77 went in vain eventually. A video of Jadeja’s stellar semi-final knock has now gone viral on social media. How did Twitter react? Ravindra Jadeja played one of the greatest knocks On This Day in 2019, India 92/6 in the Semi-final & he scored 77 runs from just 59 balls under huge pressure. This fight-back will be remembered forever!pic.twitter.com/H0H5z3yZNv — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 10, 2023 × Coming down to bat at 92/6 in the 31st over, Ravindra Jadeja came up with a remarkable knock of 77 runs off 59 balls. His resilient innings comprised four boundaries and as many sixes. Lavishing huge praise on Jadeja, one Twitter user wrote, “The only man we had faith in, that day.” Also read: Ashes 2023: 'Over the moon' Ben Stokes hails trio of Woods, Woakes and Moeen after critical win at Headingley The only man we had faith on that day — 82 Carnage🇮🇳 (@82carnage) July 10, 2023 × This person still could not get over India’s 2019 World Cup defeat at the hands of New Zealand. 4 years on. It's still heartbreaking to think about this day. I'm not sure why people keep posting about this match. For me, it's the saddest day as a cricket fan. — Saankhya Mondal (@saankhyaCFC8) July 10, 2023 × One social media user termed Ravindra Jadeja’s courageous knock as “one of the greatest” ones of all time. This really has to be one of thegreatest innings of all time. India were in immense pressure and this man kept us alive. Take a bow Jadeja🙇🏻‍♂️ — Sarthak Sengupta (@cricssg7) July 10, 2023 × “Ravindra Jadeja is one of the best ODI cricketers in the world, especially in last six or seven years or so,” wrote another person. Ravindra Jadeja is one of the best ODI cricketers in the world, especially since the last 6 or 7 years or so. — AK 7-4 (@Anshuma12603770) July 10, 2023 × Here are some other reactions. Still hurts — Rahul Sahni 🇮🇳 (@RahulSahni0903) July 10, 2023 × Jadeja and DHONI both the wickets 💔 — Nikhil Raj 🌶️ (@nikhilraj515) July 10, 2023 × Still hurts — Dineshdk27 (@Dk27criccini) July 10, 2023 × Still hurts to this day! — Ram (@ramdhaw) July 10, 2023 × Also read: Ashes 2023: 'Leeds win tops my list, to do it on my home ground was very good,' says local boy Harry Brook Team India’s collapse Batting first, New Zealand posted 239 runs in 50 overs. Ross Taylor emerged as his side’s highest scorer in that fixture with a fine knock of 74. Bhuvneshwar Kumar displayed a sublime performance picking up four wickets in the semi-final. Team India’s run chase suffered a big jolt having lost their opening batters in first four overs. New Zealand pacer Matt Henry ran through the Indian top-order to gain an upper hand for his side. Half of the Indian team went back to the dressing room scoring just 71 runs. Henry scalped three wickets in the match to bowl out India for 221.

On this day: Ravindra Jadeja’s brilliance goes in vain against New Zealand in 2019 World Cup semi-final

<p>MS Dhoni turns 42 today, July 7. The former India captain and wicket-keeper, or as his teammates lovingly call him- Mahi Bhai, enjoys a hardcore fan following like no one else. On his special day, fans across the country are celebrating the occasion to express their love and respect for the cricketer. While many are reminiscing about some of MS Dhoni's best knocks, others are coming up with different ways to shower the iconic player with blessings. In one such move, MS Dhoni's fans in Hyderabad set up a 52-feet tall cutout and poured milk on it to honour the Chennai Super Kings skipper on his birthday.</p>

<p>Videos and images have been popping up on social media showcasing the different ways MS Dhoni’s birthday is being celebrated. In a video, a giant cutout of Dhoni could be seen. Installed in Andhra Pradesh’s Nandigama, the 77-feet tall cutout is said to be the tallest such tribute for any cricketer. Meanwhile, a similar kind of celebration was witnessed in Hyderabad where a cut-out of about 52-feet was installed. While in Nandigama, Dhoni’s cutout showed him in CSK’s training kit, the Hyderabad cutout had Dhoni wearing an Indian jersey.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Demi God of India<a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MSDhoni</a> ___<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayDhoni</a><br />
MSD ICON OF WORLD CRICKET <a href="https://t.co/3Mfu0WaLF5">pic.twitter.com/3Mfu0WaLF5</a></p>
— DHONIsm_ __ (@DHONIism) <a href="https://twitter.com/DHONIism/status/1676949947113959425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hyderabad cricket fans at it again _<br />
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52 feet cut out of MS Dhoni for his birthday ___ <a href="https://t.co/r2jdjpC1JZ">pic.twitter.com/r2jdjpC1JZ</a></p>
— All About Cricket (@allaboutcric_) <a href="https://twitter.com/allaboutcric_/status/1677155170772459520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unfazed-babar-azam-plays-down-india-pakistan-world-cup-game-hype-says-focus-should-be-on-all-matches-612950">Unfazed Babar Azam plays down India-Pakistan World Cup game hype, says focus should be on all matches</a></strong></p>

<h2>MS Dhoni’s captaincy tenure</h2>

<p>Hailed as one of the most successful Indian captains of all time, MS Dhoni is no less than an inspiration. The only captain to have bagged all three ICC Trophy- The T20 World Cup, the ODI World Cup, and the Champions Trophy, Dhoni scripted history during his captaincy tenure. He won the 2007 T20 World Cup title despite the tournament being his first-ever assignment as captain. He became the second Indian captain after Kapil Dev to lead the Indian team to the ODI World Cup title in 2011. He also left every Indian emotional and proud when the Men in Blue won the Champions Trophy final in 2013.</p>

<p>In his 90 Test matches, MS Dhoni scored 4,876 runs with six centuries and 33 fifties. He has 10,773 runs in 350 ODIs. Dhoni made 1,617 runs in 98 T20Is.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-andy-murray-leads-stefanos-tsitsipas-as-wimbledon-curfew-halts-play-612914">Tennis: Andy Murray leads Stefanos Tsitsipas as Wimbledon curfew halts play</a></strong></p>

<h2>MS Dhoni in the Indian Premier League</h2>

<p>Coming to MS Dhoni’s career in the Indian Premier League, he is far ahead of the competition. He holds the record for the captaincy for the most number of games in the IPL. Meanwhile, his team Chennai Super Kings, became the team to win the most number of IPL titles and equalled the record of Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians.</p>


MS Dhoni turns 42 today, July 7. The former India captain and wicket-keeper, or as his teammates lovingly call him- Mahi Bhai, enjoys a hardcore fan following like no one else.

MS Dhoni turns 42 today, July 7. The former India captain and wicket-keeper, or as his teammates lovingly call him- Mahi Bhai, enjoys a hardcore fan following like no one else. On his special day, fans across the country are celebrating the occasion to express their love and respect for the cricketer. While many are reminiscing about some of MS Dhoni's best knocks, others are coming up with different ways to shower the iconic player with blessings. In one such move, MS Dhoni's fans in Hyderabad set up a 52-feet tall cutout and poured milk on it to honour the Chennai Super Kings skipper on his birthday. Videos and images have been popping up on social media showcasing the different ways MS Dhoni’s birthday is being celebrated. In a video, a giant cutout of Dhoni could be seen. Installed in Andhra Pradesh’s Nandigama, the 77-feet tall cutout is said to be the tallest such tribute for any cricketer. Meanwhile, a similar kind of celebration was witnessed in Hyderabad where a cut-out of about 52-feet was installed. While in Nandigama, Dhoni’s cutout showed him in CSK’s training kit, the Hyderabad cutout had Dhoni wearing an Indian jersey. Demi God of India@MSDhoni ___#HappyBirthdayDhoni MSD ICON OF WORLD CRICKET pic.twitter.com/3Mfu0WaLF5 — DHONIsm_ __ (@DHONIism) July 6, 2023 × Hyderabad cricket fans at it again _ 52 feet cut out of MS Dhoni for his birthday ___ pic.twitter.com/r2jdjpC1JZ — All About Cricket (@allaboutcric_) July 7, 2023 × Also read: Unfazed Babar Azam plays down India-Pakistan World Cup game hype, says focus should be on all matches MS Dhoni’s captaincy tenure Hailed as one of the most successful Indian captains of all time, MS Dhoni is no less than an inspiration. The only captain to have bagged all three ICC Trophy- The T20 World Cup, the ODI World Cup, and the Champions Trophy, Dhoni scripted history during his captaincy tenure. He won the 2007 T20 World Cup title despite the tournament being his first-ever assignment as captain. He became the second Indian captain after Kapil Dev to lead the Indian team to the ODI World Cup title in 2011. He also left every Indian emotional and proud when the Men in Blue won the Champions Trophy final in 2013. In his 90 Test matches, MS Dhoni scored 4,876 runs with six centuries and 33 fifties. He has 10,773 runs in 350 ODIs. Dhoni made 1,617 runs in 98 T20Is. Also read: Tennis: Andy Murray leads Stefanos Tsitsipas as Wimbledon curfew halts play MS Dhoni in the Indian Premier League Coming to MS Dhoni’s career in the Indian Premier League, he is far ahead of the competition. He holds the record for the captaincy for the most number of games in the IPL. Meanwhile, his team Chennai Super Kings, became the team to win the most number of IPL titles and equalled the record of Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians.

MS Dhoni 42nd birthday: Fans install 'tallest' cutout to honour 'Captain Cool'

<p>Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the captain of the 2011 World Cup winning team, celebrates his 42nd birthday on Friday, July 7. Dubbed the greatest white-ball leader ever, let alone in Indian cricket history, MS Dhoni tasted success in global events like none other.</p>

<p>He, to date, remains the only skipper in cricketer history to win all major white-ball events - including T20 World Cup (2007), 50-over World Cup (2011) and Champions Trophy (2013).</p>

<p>Under his leadership and a star-studded squad at the helm, India ended the 50-over World Cup drought, winning the final against Sri Lanka by six wickets at the Wankhede Stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chasing 275 against a potent Sri Lankan attack, India lost two wickets inside the Powerplay. While Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir steadied the innings with an 83-run stand for the third wicket, it was a match-winning partnership of 109 runs that saw India cross the winning line.</p>

<p>Though Gambhir ended with the highest score of 97 runs, it was an unbeaten 91 from the captain Cool, which sealed the deal for India.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-mcc-brings-in-stricter-pavilion-rules-following-long-room-drama-during-lords-test-613118">Ashes: MCC brings in stricter pavilion rules following Long Room drama during Lord's Test</a></p>

<p>Now, after 12 years, when India is again hosting the World Cup, the chips are high, and so is the expectation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, several team members of the 2011 World Cup-winning team took to social media to send birthday greetings to their captain MS Dhoni on his 42nd birthday.</p>

<p>From openers Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag to MS Dhoni's partner Yuvraj Singh, from Dhoni's go-to-man Suresh Raina to match winners Harbhajan Singh and Munaf Patel, most of the 15-member squad wished MS Dhoni.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">May you always fly high like your helicopter shots.<br />
Happy birthday, MS! <a href="https://t.co/f9aqiY6HV0">pic.twitter.com/f9aqiY6HV0</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1677222937211056128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Sun God has 7 horses to pull his heavenly chariot.<br />
In the Rigveda there are 7 parts of the world, 7 seasons &amp; 7 fortresses<br />
7 basic musical notes<br />
7 pheras in a marriage<br />
7 wonders of the world<br />
And on<br />
7th day of 7th month- Birthday of a top man <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> , <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayDhoni</a> . <a href="https://t.co/ZZwXBT5mLV">pic.twitter.com/ZZwXBT5mLV</a></p>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1677192633113006080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> 🎂 here’s to some epic memories on the field! Hope you have a blessed year ahead 🎉 <a href="https://t.co/jVzJ8PAAii">pic.twitter.com/jVzJ8PAAii</a></p>
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1677228477542715392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy birthday to my big brother <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> ! 🎉 From sharing the pitch to sharing our dreams, the bond that we've created is unbreakable. Your strength, both as a leader and as a friend, has been my guiding light. May the year ahead bring you joy, success, and good health. Keep… <a href="https://t.co/0RJXCKEz7B">pic.twitter.com/0RJXCKEz7B</a></p>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1677030049760034817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday Bahubali 💪 <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> .. May you continue to Inspire .. Have a great day Ahead <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/msdbirthday?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#msdbirthday</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DhoniBirthday?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DhoniBirthday</a> <a href="https://t.co/MzY3gF3He8">pic.twitter.com/MzY3gF3He8</a></p>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1677215365607325696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wishing a very happy birthday to The Legend <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayMSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayMSDhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GOAT%F0%93%83%B5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GOAT𓃵</a> <a href="https://t.co/BoPLfOSKL8">pic.twitter.com/BoPLfOSKL8</a></p>
— Munaf Patel (@munafpa99881129) <a href="https://twitter.com/munafpa99881129/status/1677172819535486976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the captain of the 2011 World Cup winning team, celebrates his 42nd birthday on Friday, July 7. Dubbed the greatest white-ball leader ever, let alone in Indian cricket history, MS Dhoni tasted success in global events like none other.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the captain of the 2011 World Cup winning team, celebrates his 42nd birthday on Friday, July 7. Dubbed the greatest white-ball leader ever, let alone in Indian cricket history, MS Dhoni tasted success in global events like none other. He, to date, remains the only skipper in cricketer history to win all major white-ball events - including T20 World Cup (2007), 50-over World Cup (2011) and Champions Trophy (2013). Under his leadership and a star-studded squad at the helm, India ended the 50-over World Cup drought, winning the final against Sri Lanka by six wickets at the Wankhede Stadium. Chasing 275 against a potent Sri Lankan attack, India lost two wickets inside the Powerplay. While Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir steadied the innings with an 83-run stand for the third wicket, it was a match-winning partnership of 109 runs that saw India cross the winning line. Though Gambhir ended with the highest score of 97 runs, it was an unbeaten 91 from the captain Cool, which sealed the deal for India. ALSO READ: Ashes: MCC brings in stricter pavilion rules following Long Room drama during Lord's Test Now, after 12 years, when India is again hosting the World Cup, the chips are high, and so is the expectation. Meanwhile, several team members of the 2011 World Cup-winning team took to social media to send birthday greetings to their captain MS Dhoni on his 42nd birthday. From openers Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag to MS Dhoni's partner Yuvraj Singh, from Dhoni's go-to-man Suresh Raina to match winners Harbhajan Singh and Munaf Patel, most of the 15-member squad wished MS Dhoni. May you always fly high like your helicopter shots. Happy birthday, MS! pic.twitter.com/f9aqiY6HV0 — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) July 7, 2023 × The Sun God has 7 horses to pull his heavenly chariot. In the Rigveda there are 7 parts of the world, 7 seasons & 7 fortresses 7 basic musical notes 7 pheras in a marriage 7 wonders of the world And on 7th day of 7th month- Birthday of a top man @msdhoni , #HappyBirthdayDhoni . pic.twitter.com/ZZwXBT5mLV — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) July 7, 2023 × Happy Birthday @msdhoni 🎂 here’s to some epic memories on the field! Hope you have a blessed year ahead 🎉 pic.twitter.com/jVzJ8PAAii — Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) July 7, 2023 × Happy birthday to my big brother @msdhoni ! 🎉 From sharing the pitch to sharing our dreams, the bond that we've created is unbreakable. Your strength, both as a leader and as a friend, has been my guiding light. May the year ahead bring you joy, success, and good health. Keep… pic.twitter.com/0RJXCKEz7B — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) July 6, 2023 × Happy Birthday Bahubali 💪 @msdhoni .. May you continue to Inspire .. Have a great day Ahead #msdbirthday #DhoniBirthday pic.twitter.com/MzY3gF3He8 — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) July 7, 2023 × Wishing a very happy birthday to The Legend @msdhoni #HappyBirthdayMSDhoni #GOAT𓃵 pic.twitter.com/BoPLfOSKL8 — Munaf Patel (@munafpa99881129) July 7, 2023 × WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Here's how Class of 2011 World Cup-winning team wished captain MS Dhoni on his 42nd birthday

<p>Dubbed by many as the greatest Indian captain, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, fondly known as MS Dhoni, turned 42 on Friday, July 7. The beloved 'Thala' lately tasted success in the 16th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) with his Chennai Super Kings team winning the title for the fifth time equaling Mumbai Indians.</p>

<p>His teammates, best friends and even colleagues took to social media to send birthday greetings to the legend.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From Suresh Raina and Ravindra Jadeja to some of the young guns, Dhoni received ample love and best wishes from all quarters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To date, the only captain to win all white-ball ICC trophies, including the T20 World Cup (2007), 50-over World Cup (2011) and the Champions Trophy (2013), Dhoni is regarded among the game's finest strategists and perhaps one of the best wicketkeepers of all time.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-3rd-test-day-1-mark-woods-five-for-keeps-england-in-drivers-seat-despite-mitchell-marshs-ton-612853">Ashes 2023, 3rd Test, Day 1: Mark Wood's five-for keeps England in driver's seat despite Mitchell Marsh's ton</a></p>

<p>From being the ultimate finisher that he was, having won a plethora of games on his own for both India and his IPL franchises, CSK and Rising Pune Supergiant, Dhoni's ability to produce a stumping in a fraction of seconds gave him the name of 'the quickest man in the east'.</p>

<p>Other than winning three ICC titles as Indian captain, Dhoni also clinched two Asia Cup trophies (2010, 2016) and was also the first Indian captain to win the ODI series in Australia (2008).&nbsp;</p>

<p>As it often unfolds in life, he has had many low moments as a captain throughout his career, but Dhoni's ability to rise from the ashes and deliver with what is at his disposal separated him from the rest.</p>

<p>On his birthday, some of Dhoni's closet pals on and off the field, including Raina and Jadeja, sent him greetings on social media. Several budding youngsters like Tilak Varma, who received his maiden India call-up for the upcoming West Indies series, also tweeted wishes for the veteran skipper.</p>

<h2>On MS Dhoni's 42nd birthday, let's look at some of the tweets -</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy birthday to my big brother <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> ! 🎉 From sharing the pitch to sharing our dreams, the bond that we've created is unbreakable. Your strength, both as a leader and as a friend, has been my guiding light. May the year ahead bring you joy, success, and good health. Keep… <a href="https://t.co/0RJXCKEz7B">pic.twitter.com/0RJXCKEz7B</a></p>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1677030049760034817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My go to man since 2009 to till date and forever. Wishing you a very happy birthday mahi bhai.🎂see u soon in yellow💛 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/respect?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#respect</a> <a href="https://t.co/xuHcb0x4lS">pic.twitter.com/xuHcb0x4lS</a></p>
— Ravindrasinh jadeja (@imjadeja) <a href="https://twitter.com/imjadeja/status/1677133343761072130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy birthday Mahi bhai 🤗 I remember the conversations we’ve had and all the advice you’ve given me. Wishing you the best always ❤️🙏 <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/wAynPhJrVa">pic.twitter.com/wAynPhJrVa</a></p>
— Tilak Varma (@TilakV9) <a href="https://twitter.com/TilakV9/status/1677140454977212418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy birthday my favourite ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/KWF83qlOhb">pic.twitter.com/KWF83qlOhb</a></p>
— hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7/status/1677161245689126913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Your helicopter shots,<br />
Swift stumping on dots<br />
Always made the game a treat to watch,<br />
And made opponent's hopes go botch.<br />
<br />
Happiest birthday <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> bhai 🤗 <a href="https://t.co/j914fmoTSx">pic.twitter.com/j914fmoTSx</a></p>
— Mayank Agarwal (@mayankcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/mayankcricket/status/1677114023949615104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday to the most successful captain of Team India, <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a>! Your charisma, leadership, and extraordinary skills continue to inspire millions around the globe. Thank you for your unparalleled contributions to Indian cricket. <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://t.co/ogeFGRXhI2">pic.twitter.com/ogeFGRXhI2</a></p>
— Jay Shah (@JayShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah/status/1677143077042139158?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"𝘍𝘳𝘰𝘮 0000 𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴, 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘪𝘳𝘵𝘩𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘣𝘰𝘺" <a href="https://t.co/vQpl9NyrQU">pic.twitter.com/vQpl9NyrQU</a></p>
— Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/LucknowIPL/status/1677022097934278656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The clock strikes 12 as we step into THALA's birthday in style! BRING ON THE BIRTHDAY WHISTLES! 🦁🥳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CelebratingThala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CelebratingThala</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yellove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yellove</a> 💛 <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/rvb3dtoUzo">pic.twitter.com/rvb3dtoUzo</a></p>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1677022254633476096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wishing the legend and the greatest ever to play the sport a very happy birthday! May each and everyone of our great country have the honour and the privilege of experiencing your leadership firsthand someday in every aspect of life..greatest leader!! <a href="https://t.co/KWGkkiNEuL">pic.twitter.com/KWGkkiNEuL</a></p>
— ATR (@RayuduAmbati) <a href="https://twitter.com/RayuduAmbati/status/1677153929384062976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Sun God has 7 horses to pull his heavenly chariot.<br />
In the Rigveda there are 7 parts of the world, 7 seasons &amp; 7 fortresses<br />
7 basic musical notes<br />
7 pheras in a marriage<br />
7 wonders of the world<br />
And on<br />
7th day of 7th month- Birthday of a top man <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> , <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayDhoni</a> . <a href="https://t.co/ZZwXBT5mLV">pic.twitter.com/ZZwXBT5mLV</a></p>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1677192633113006080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Dubbed by many as the greatest Indian captain, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, fondly known as MS Dhoni, turned 42 on Friday, July 7. The beloved 'Thala' lately tasted success in the 16th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) with his Chennai Super Kings team winning the title for the fifth time equaling Mumbai Indians.

Dubbed by many as the greatest Indian captain, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, fondly known as MS Dhoni, turned 42 on Friday, July 7. The beloved 'Thala' lately tasted success in the 16th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) with his Chennai Super Kings team winning the title for the fifth time equaling Mumbai Indians. His teammates, best friends and even colleagues took to social media to send birthday greetings to the legend. From Suresh Raina and Ravindra Jadeja to some of the young guns, Dhoni received ample love and best wishes from all quarters. To date, the only captain to win all white-ball ICC trophies, including the T20 World Cup (2007), 50-over World Cup (2011) and the Champions Trophy (2013), Dhoni is regarded among the game's finest strategists and perhaps one of the best wicketkeepers of all time. ALSO READ: Ashes 2023, 3rd Test, Day 1: Mark Wood's five-for keeps England in driver's seat despite Mitchell Marsh's ton From being the ultimate finisher that he was, having won a plethora of games on his own for both India and his IPL franchises, CSK and Rising Pune Supergiant, Dhoni's ability to produce a stumping in a fraction of seconds gave him the name of 'the quickest man in the east'. Other than winning three ICC titles as Indian captain, Dhoni also clinched two Asia Cup trophies (2010, 2016) and was also the first Indian captain to win the ODI series in Australia (2008). As it often unfolds in life, he has had many low moments as a captain throughout his career, but Dhoni's ability to rise from the ashes and deliver with what is at his disposal separated him from the rest. On his birthday, some of Dhoni's closet pals on and off the field, including Raina and Jadeja, sent him greetings on social media. Several budding youngsters like Tilak Varma, who received his maiden India call-up for the upcoming West Indies series, also tweeted wishes for the veteran skipper. On MS Dhoni's 42nd birthday, let's look at some of the tweets - Happy birthday to my big brother @msdhoni ! 🎉 From sharing the pitch to sharing our dreams, the bond that we've created is unbreakable. Your strength, both as a leader and as a friend, has been my guiding light. May the year ahead bring you joy, success, and good health. Keep… pic.twitter.com/0RJXCKEz7B — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) July 6, 2023 × My go to man since 2009 to till date and forever. Wishing you a very happy birthday mahi bhai.🎂see u soon in yellow💛 #respect pic.twitter.com/xuHcb0x4lS — Ravindrasinh jadeja (@imjadeja) July 7, 2023 × Happy birthday Mahi bhai 🤗 I remember the conversations we’ve had and all the advice you’ve given me. Wishing you the best always ❤️🙏 @msdhoni pic.twitter.com/wAynPhJrVa — Tilak Varma (@TilakV9) July 7, 2023 × Happy birthday my favourite ❤️@msdhoni pic.twitter.com/KWF83qlOhb — hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) July 7, 2023 × Your helicopter shots, Swift stumping on dots Always made the game a treat to watch, And made opponent's hopes go botch. Happiest birthday @msdhoni bhai 🤗 pic.twitter.com/j914fmoTSx — Mayank Agarwal (@mayankcricket) July 7, 2023 × Happy Birthday to the most successful captain of Team India, @msdhoni! Your charisma, leadership, and extraordinary skills continue to inspire millions around the globe. Thank you for your unparalleled contributions to Indian cricket. @BCCI pic.twitter.com/ogeFGRXhI2 — Jay Shah (@JayShah) July 7, 2023 × "𝘍𝘳𝘰𝘮 0000 𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴, 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘪𝘳𝘵𝘩𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘣𝘰𝘺" pic.twitter.com/vQpl9NyrQU — Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) July 6, 2023 × The clock strikes 12 as we step into THALA's birthday in style! BRING ON THE BIRTHDAY WHISTLES! 🦁🥳#CelebratingThala #WhistlePodu #Yellove 💛 @msdhoni pic.twitter.com/rvb3dtoUzo — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) July 6, 2023 × Wishing the legend and the greatest ever to play the sport a very happy birthday! May each and everyone of our great country have the honour and the privilege of experiencing your leadership firsthand someday in every aspect of life..greatest leader!! pic.twitter.com/KWGkkiNEuL — ATR (@RayuduAmbati) July 7, 2023 × The Sun God has 7 horses to pull his heavenly chariot. In the Rigveda there are 7 parts of the world, 7 seasons & 7 fortresses 7 basic musical notes 7 pheras in a marriage 7 wonders of the world And on 7th day of 7th month- Birthday of a top man @msdhoni , #HappyBirthdayDhoni . pic.twitter.com/ZZwXBT5mLV — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) July 7, 2023 × WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian cricket legends send birthday greetings to MS Dhoni as Thala turns 42

<p>Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has heaped praise on England captain Ben Stokes and compared him to legendary India player MS Dhoni after playing a valiant knock in the second Ashes Test at Lord’s. Stokes scored 155 on the final day of the Test match but could help his side to the win as Australia won by 43 runs to take a 2-0 lead in the series. According to Ponting, there are very few players that can stretch the game to last and win it for their side.</p>

<h2><strong>Ponting heaps praise</strong></h2>

<p>"The first one that comes to mind is maybe someone like a Dhoni, who's there at the end in a lot of T20 games, and finishing games, whereas Ben's doing it at the end of Test matches, and there's not, probably not many, many players through the history of the game that have found themselves in that sort of role and are there at the end winning games, and especially as a captain,” Ponting said while in conversation with ICC TV.</p>

<p>Stokes came out to bat when England were 45/4 and needed 326 more runs to level the Ashes at 1-1. The England skipper played a gutsy knock which consisted of 9 fours and 9 sixes and held one end before getting out. By the time, Stokes departed England were the favourites to clinch the contest as they needed 70 runs to win with four wickets in hand. But his dismissal paved the way for Australia to clinch the contest as they quickly wrapped the tail.</p>

<p>"I thought and everyone probably thought he could do it again because we've seen it happen before, but this was probably, slightly more runs that they were chasing (in 2019)," added Ponting.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saff-championships-final-india-down-kuwait-to-clinch-historic-triumph-gurpreet-yet-again-turns-shootout-hero-611974">SAFF Championships Final: India down Kuwait to clinch ninth title; Gurpreet yet again turns shootout hero</a></p>

<h2><strong>England with mount to climb</strong></h2>

<p>Both England and Australia will next take the field in the Third Ashes Test which starts on Thursday, July 6 at Headingley in Leeds. Currently, the hosts are tailing 0-2 and will need an improbable comeback to stay in the hunt for their first Ashes glory in eight years.&nbsp;</p>

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Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has heaped praise on England captain Ben Stokes and compared him to legendary India player MS Dhoni after playing a valiant knock in the second Ashes Test at Lord’s.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has heaped praise on England captain Ben Stokes and compared him to legendary India player MS Dhoni after playing a valiant knock in the second Ashes Test at Lord’s. Stokes scored 155 on the final day of the Test match but could help his side to the win as Australia won by 43 runs to take a 2-0 lead in the series. According to Ponting, there are very few players that can stretch the game to last and win it for their side. Ponting heaps praise "The first one that comes to mind is maybe someone like a Dhoni, who's there at the end in a lot of T20 games, and finishing games, whereas Ben's doing it at the end of Test matches, and there's not, probably not many, many players through the history of the game that have found themselves in that sort of role and are there at the end winning games, and especially as a captain,” Ponting said while in conversation with ICC TV. Stokes came out to bat when England were 45/4 and needed 326 more runs to level the Ashes at 1-1. The England skipper played a gutsy knock which consisted of 9 fours and 9 sixes and held one end before getting out. By the time, Stokes departed England were the favourites to clinch the contest as they needed 70 runs to win with four wickets in hand. But his dismissal paved the way for Australia to clinch the contest as they quickly wrapped the tail. "I thought and everyone probably thought he could do it again because we've seen it happen before, but this was probably, slightly more runs that they were chasing (in 2019)," added Ponting. ALSO READ | SAFF Championships Final: India down Kuwait to clinch ninth title; Gurpreet yet again turns shootout hero England with mount to climb Both England and Australia will next take the field in the Third Ashes Test which starts on Thursday, July 6 at Headingley in Leeds. Currently, the hosts are tailing 0-2 and will need an improbable comeback to stay in the hunt for their first Ashes glory in eight years. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023: Ricky Ponting hails Ben Stokes' valiant Lord's knock, compares to Dhoni's match-winning approach

<p>MS Dhoni remains the only international captain to have won all three ICC titles. During his captaincy, India became mentally strong&nbsp;in tough situations in multi-nation events, believed in taking&nbsp;the game deep, backed multi-dimensional players and emphasised on fielding. Dhoni took several memorable decisions as captain, which changed the course of Indian cricket, but some of his calls raised eyebrows.</p>

<p>During India's tour of Australia in 2011/12, they were whitewashed in the four Tests and had a poor run in the tri-series, also involving Sri Lanka, in early 2012. Back then, Dhoni introduced a rotational policy where he did not play&nbsp;India's top three -- Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir -- together before their&nbsp;must-win game versus the Lankans in Hobart.</p>

<p>As a result, India were not consistent and won only three out of eight matches. It is believed that Dhoni resorted to the rotational policy to accommodate Rohit Sharma in the line-up, keeping the 2015 ODI World Cup in mind (also held in Australia), along with having better fielders in the playing XI.&nbsp;Back in 2019, Gambhir recalled Dhoni's rotational policy and slammed it, calling it 'absolute crap'.</p>

<h2><strong>'It was absolute crap. If you make a decision, then back it'</strong></h2>

<p>Four years back, in an interview with Lallantop, Gambhir pointed out, "As far as the rotation policy goes, it was absolute crap and I’ve always maintained it. I have always believed that players are supposed to follow their captain’s decision but if you ask me, it was complete crap. If he believed in the rotation policy so much, then he should have stuck to it. He started with the rotation policy but played all three in the must-win games. If you make a decision, then back it."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-cut-2-frames-so-that-big-claim-ajmal-recalls-lbw-appeal-vs-tendulkar-in-cwc11-semi-final-611374">'They cut 2 frames so that...': BIG CLAIM! Ajmal recalls lbw appeal vs Tendulkar in CWC'11 semi-final</a></strong></p>

<p>“If you were preparing for the 2015 World Cup, then you shouldn’t have thought if you’re going to win this CV series or the one after this. It shouldn’t be like this. You began the policy but after four matches, when the results didn’t come, when questions began to be asked, then you start playing all three. That’s why I believe it was a complete waste of time If you play for your country, you should play your best team," the former batter added.</p>

<p>India's last game in the tri-series was against Sri Lanka, a must-win for them. Chasing a daunting 321, the Men in Blue had to pull off the run-chase in less than 40 overs to have any chance of qualifying for the finals. They rode on Sehwag-Sachin's blistering start, Gambhir's 64-ball 63, Virat Kohli's majestic 133&nbsp;not out and Suresh Raina's unbeaten 24-ball 40 to win by seven wickets. However,&nbsp;they still could not feature in the best of three finals.</p>

<p>Australia defeated Sri Lanka, 2-1, in a best-of-three final to win the tournament Down Under.</p>

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MS Dhoni remains the only international captain to have won all three ICC titles. During his captaincy, India became mentally strong in tough situations in multi-nation events, believed in taking the game deep, backed multi-dimensional players and emphasised on fielding.

MS Dhoni remains the only international captain to have won all three ICC titles. During his captaincy, India became mentally strong in tough situations in multi-nation events, believed in taking the game deep, backed multi-dimensional players and emphasised on fielding. Dhoni took several memorable decisions as captain, which changed the course of Indian cricket, but some of his calls raised eyebrows. During India's tour of Australia in 2011/12, they were whitewashed in the four Tests and had a poor run in the tri-series, also involving Sri Lanka, in early 2012. Back then, Dhoni introduced a rotational policy where he did not play India's top three -- Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir -- together before their must-win game versus the Lankans in Hobart. As a result, India were not consistent and won only three out of eight matches. It is believed that Dhoni resorted to the rotational policy to accommodate Rohit Sharma in the line-up, keeping the 2015 ODI World Cup in mind (also held in Australia), along with having better fielders in the playing XI. Back in 2019, Gambhir recalled Dhoni's rotational policy and slammed it, calling it 'absolute crap'. 'It was absolute crap. If you make a decision, then back it' Four years back, in an interview with Lallantop, Gambhir pointed out, "As far as the rotation policy goes, it was absolute crap and I’ve always maintained it. I have always believed that players are supposed to follow their captain’s decision but if you ask me, it was complete crap. If he believed in the rotation policy so much, then he should have stuck to it. He started with the rotation policy but played all three in the must-win games. If you make a decision, then back it." Also Read: 'They cut 2 frames so that...': BIG CLAIM! Ajmal recalls lbw appeal vs Tendulkar in CWC'11 semi-final “If you were preparing for the 2015 World Cup, then you shouldn’t have thought if you’re going to win this CV series or the one after this. It shouldn’t be like this. You began the policy but after four matches, when the results didn’t come, when questions began to be asked, then you start playing all three. That’s why I believe it was a complete waste of time If you play for your country, you should play your best team," the former batter added. India's last game in the tri-series was against Sri Lanka, a must-win for them. Chasing a daunting 321, the Men in Blue had to pull off the run-chase in less than 40 overs to have any chance of qualifying for the finals. They rode on Sehwag-Sachin's blistering start, Gambhir's 64-ball 63, Virat Kohli's majestic 133 not out and Suresh Raina's unbeaten 24-ball 40 to win by seven wickets. However, they still could not feature in the best of three finals. Australia defeated Sri Lanka, 2-1, in a best-of-three final to win the tournament Down Under. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

THROWBACK | I told Dhoni it was crap: When Gambhir rejected his former skipper's rotational policy

<p lang="en-US">A video of Indian cricketer MS Dhoni went viral in which an air hostess was seen offering him chocolates inside the flight. However, what caught people's attention was Dhoni playing Candy Crush, which eventually triggered 3.6 million downloads of the gaming application in just three hours.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Viral Video of Dhoni</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">In the viral video, MS Dhoni, along with his wife Sakshi Dhoni was seen travelling in an Indigo flight on Sunday, as the cricketer was seen playing candy crush on his tablet.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-india-chief-selector-reveals-how-ms-dhoni-became-indias-permanent-white-ball-captain-607025">Former India chief selector reveals how MS Dhoni became India's permanent white-ball captain</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">An air hostess can be seen offering chocolates, sweets as well as a note to the Chennai Super Kings skipper. When the air hostess offered sweets and chocolates to the legendary cricketer, he obliged her by taking a packet of 'Omani dates'.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">MS Dhoni - the crowd favourite. <a href="https://t.co/ltpud9P9Jj">pic.twitter.com/ltpud9P9Jj</a></p>
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1672897357212708864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The air hostess was seen engaging in a friendly conversation with the skipper before returning back to work. The brief video clip left his fans praising the cricketer for his simplicity as he was seen sitting in the flight's economy class despite being an established star.<br />
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However, what was more unexpected was how fans caught the skipper playing Candy Crush on a tablet aboard an IndiGo flight in the viral video. The video went viral on social media so much that the hashtag Candy Crush started trending along with MS Dhoni on Twitter.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>3.6 million downloads of Candy Crush</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Since the video was posted online, it accumulated more than 8.7 lakhs and the numbers continue to increase. The video also received a flurry of comments.<br />
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“Lol playing candy crush and eating candy,” said a user. Another commented, “Dhoni is my all-time favourite Cricket player.” “Dhoni playing Candy Crush,” wrote a third user. “The man! The myth! The legend! Travelling in Economy class,” said a social media user.<br />
<br />
As the video of MS Dhoni playing Candy Crush went viral, another tweet surfaced online which gained a fair amount of traction. The tweet read, "Just In - We Got 3.6 Million New Downloads in just 3 hours. Thanks to the Indian Cricket Legend @msdhoni. We are Trending In India Just Because Of You. #Candycrush #MSDhoni ~ Team Candy Crush Saga."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Just In - We Got 3.6 Million New Downloads in just 3 hours.<br />
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Thanks to the Indian Cricket Legend <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> . We are Trending In India Just Because Of You.<br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Candycrush?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Candycrush</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni%F0%93%83%B5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni𓃵</a><br />
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~ Team Candy Crush Saga <a href="https://t.co/LkpY8smxzA">pic.twitter.com/LkpY8smxzA</a></p>
— Candy Crush Saga Official (@teams_dream) <a href="https://twitter.com/teams_dream/status/1672944660250238976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>However, this Twitter account is not Candy Crush's official account. However, the tweet fueled the buzz around Candy Crush and the cricketer, highlighting Dhoni's immense influence over his fans.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Story of the magical Mahendra Singh Dhoni</strong></p>

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<p><br />
M S Dhoni is an avid gamer, especially in the field of video games and is known to enjoy playing games like FIFA, Call of Duty, and PubG along with his teammates. Indian pacer Ishant Sharma had recently, in an episode of The Ranveer Show on YouTube, said, "We all carry PlayStations wherever we go. Mahi bhai loves playing online/video games like Call of Duty and he's quite fond of PubG."</p>

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A video of Indian cricketer MS Dhoni went viral in which an air hostess was seen offering him chocolates inside the flight. However, what caught people's attention was Dhoni playing Candy Crush, which eventually triggered 3.

A video of Indian cricketer MS Dhoni went viral in which an air hostess was seen offering him chocolates inside the flight. However, what caught people's attention was Dhoni playing Candy Crush, which eventually triggered 3.6 million downloads of the gaming application in just three hours. Viral Video of Dhoni In the viral video, MS Dhoni, along with his wife Sakshi Dhoni was seen travelling in an Indigo flight on Sunday, as the cricketer was seen playing candy crush on his tablet. ALSO READ | Former India chief selector reveals how MS Dhoni became India's permanent white-ball captain An air hostess can be seen offering chocolates, sweets as well as a note to the Chennai Super Kings skipper. When the air hostess offered sweets and chocolates to the legendary cricketer, he obliged her by taking a packet of 'Omani dates'. MS Dhoni - the crowd favourite. pic.twitter.com/ltpud9P9Jj — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) June 25, 2023 × The air hostess was seen engaging in a friendly conversation with the skipper before returning back to work. The brief video clip left his fans praising the cricketer for his simplicity as he was seen sitting in the flight's economy class despite being an established star. However, what was more unexpected was how fans caught the skipper playing Candy Crush on a tablet aboard an IndiGo flight in the viral video. The video went viral on social media so much that the hashtag Candy Crush started trending along with MS Dhoni on Twitter. 3.6 million downloads of Candy Crush Since the video was posted online, it accumulated more than 8.7 lakhs and the numbers continue to increase. The video also received a flurry of comments. “Lol playing candy crush and eating candy,” said a user. Another commented, “Dhoni is my all-time favourite Cricket player.” “Dhoni playing Candy Crush,” wrote a third user. “The man! The myth! The legend! Travelling in Economy class,” said a social media user. As the video of MS Dhoni playing Candy Crush went viral, another tweet surfaced online which gained a fair amount of traction. The tweet read, "Just In - We Got 3.6 Million New Downloads in just 3 hours. Thanks to the Indian Cricket Legend @msdhoni. We are Trending In India Just Because Of You. #Candycrush #MSDhoni ~ Team Candy Crush Saga." Just In - We Got 3.6 Million New Downloads in just 3 hours. Thanks to the Indian Cricket Legend @msdhoni . We are Trending In India Just Because Of You. #Candycrush #MSDhoni𓃵 ~ Team Candy Crush Saga pic.twitter.com/LkpY8smxzA — Candy Crush Saga Official (@teams_dream) June 25, 2023 × However, this Twitter account is not Candy Crush's official account. However, the tweet fueled the buzz around Candy Crush and the cricketer, highlighting Dhoni's immense influence over his fans. WATCH | Gravitas: Story of the magical Mahendra Singh Dhoni M S Dhoni is an avid gamer, especially in the field of video games and is known to enjoy playing games like FIFA, Call of Duty, and PubG along with his teammates. Indian pacer Ishant Sharma had recently, in an episode of The Ranveer Show on YouTube, said, "We all carry PlayStations wherever we go. Mahi bhai loves playing online/video games like Call of Duty and he's quite fond of PubG." You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WATCH | MS Dhoni's viral video gets Candy Crush 3.6 million downloads in just 3 hours?

<p>MS Dhoni played the entire IPL 2023 edition with a knee injury. Battling fitness issues, the 41-year-old legendary player led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with aplomb, came up with some vital runs down the order, marshalled his troops really well to lead the Yellow Army to their fifth title with a five-wicket win in the season finale, where they beat defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in Ahmedabad on May 30.</p>

<p>After the win, Dhoni stated that he will work hard to try and come back in IPL 2024 for his ardent fans, who came in large numbers in every game featuring CSK as it was believed to be the Chennai skipper's last season. Dhoni underwent knee surgery in Mumbai soon after IPL 2023's conclusion and is expected to rest till the end of this year before he feels ready to resume training once again. At present, nothing can be said about his availability for IPL 2024. Amid all this, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan provided a vital update.</p>

<h2><strong>"We aren't going to ask him 'what are you going to do, how' etc."</strong></h2>

<p>Viswanathan told ESPNCricinfo, "Actually, he told us immediately after the final is over, he'll fly to Mumbai, have surgery and go back to Ranchi for rehab. In Mumbai, after Ruturaj's wedding [on June 4], I visited him. It was a courtesy call. He's quite comfortable. He said he'll rest for three weeks and then start his rehab. And like he said, he's not going to play until January-February. We don't need to remind him about all that."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-didnt-consider-missing-a-single-ipl-game-due-to-troubled-knee-reveals-csks-ceo-607161">MS Dhoni didn't consider missing a single IPL game due to troubled knee, reveals CSK's CEO</a></strong></p>

<p>Viswanathan added, "He knows what to do, how to go about it, so we aren't going to ask him 'what are you going to do, how' etc. He will inform us on his own. Whatever he's doing, he'll call first and inform only Mr N Srinivasan, not anyone else. Factually, he'll be straightforward with him. From him, we'll get the information that this is what he's doing. It's been this way since 2008. That's how it will continue."</p>

<p>Dhoni has 5,082 runs in 250 IPL games, at an average of&nbsp;38.79 along with 24 fifties. In addition, he has most dismissals by a keeper in the tournament (180) and has led CSK to five IPL titles. Chennai have also won the now-defunct Champions League (CLT20) title twice under his leadership.</p>

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MS Dhoni played the entire IPL 2023 edition with a knee injury. Battling fitness issues, the 41-year-old legendary player led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with aplomb, came up with some vital runs down the order, marshalled his troops really well to lead the Yellow Army to their fifth title with a five-wicket win in the season finale, where they beat defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in Ahmedabad on May 30.

MS Dhoni played the entire IPL 2023 edition with a knee injury. Battling fitness issues, the 41-year-old legendary player led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with aplomb, came up with some vital runs down the order, marshalled his troops really well to lead the Yellow Army to their fifth title with a five-wicket win in the season finale, where they beat defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in Ahmedabad on May 30. After the win, Dhoni stated that he will work hard to try and come back in IPL 2024 for his ardent fans, who came in large numbers in every game featuring CSK as it was believed to be the Chennai skipper's last season. Dhoni underwent knee surgery in Mumbai soon after IPL 2023's conclusion and is expected to rest till the end of this year before he feels ready to resume training once again. At present, nothing can be said about his availability for IPL 2024. Amid all this, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan provided a vital update. "We aren't going to ask him 'what are you going to do, how' etc." Viswanathan told ESPNCricinfo, "Actually, he told us immediately after the final is over, he'll fly to Mumbai, have surgery and go back to Ranchi for rehab. In Mumbai, after Ruturaj's wedding [on June 4], I visited him. It was a courtesy call. He's quite comfortable. He said he'll rest for three weeks and then start his rehab. And like he said, he's not going to play until January-February. We don't need to remind him about all that." Also Read: MS Dhoni didn't consider missing a single IPL game due to troubled knee, reveals CSK's CEO Viswanathan added, "He knows what to do, how to go about it, so we aren't going to ask him 'what are you going to do, how' etc. He will inform us on his own. Whatever he's doing, he'll call first and inform only Mr N Srinivasan, not anyone else. Factually, he'll be straightforward with him. From him, we'll get the information that this is what he's doing. It's been this way since 2008. That's how it will continue." Dhoni has 5,082 runs in 250 IPL games, at an average of 38.79 along with 24 fifties. In addition, he has most dismissals by a keeper in the tournament (180) and has led CSK to five IPL titles. Chennai have also won the now-defunct Champions League (CLT20) title twice under his leadership. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Will MS Dhoni turn up for IPL 2024? CSK CEO provides update on legendary player's availability

<p>Kasi Viswanathan, Chennai Super Kings CEO, revealed that captain MS Dhoni didn’t consider missing a single IPL game this season due to his troubled knee. Kasi further said that 'captain cool' never complained about it to anyone throughout the season, and it was only after winning the title against Gujarat Titans when Dhoni informed the management about him going under the knife.</p>

<p>Kasi added none from the management asked MS to take a call on his troubled knee during the tournament, knowing MS would rest himself if it needed to be. The long-serving boss of IPL’s most famous franchise showered praises on CSK’s oldest player, saying despite going through the pain, Dhoni stood by his team and showed commitment, for which he needs to get appreciated.</p>

<p>"We never asked him things like 'do you want to play or do you want to sit out.' If he can't, he would've told us straightaway," CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan told ESPNcricinfo Tamil in an interview. "We knew it was a struggle for him to play, but his commitment to the team, his leadership and how the team benefits everyone knows. From that perspective, you have to appreciate him."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-india-chief-selector-reveals-how-ms-dhoni-became-indias-permanent-white-ball-captain-607025">Former India chief selector reveals how MS Dhoni became India's permanent white-ball captain</a></p>

<p>"Till the final, he never complained about his knee to anybody. Though everyone knew, and you would've seen him struggling while running, he never complained even once. After the final, he said, 'okay, I'll have a surgery.' He's finished his surgery, he's quite happy, he's recovering,” Kasi added.</p>

<h2>‘He knows what to do’ – Kasi on MS Dhoni</h2>

<p>After helping his team lift the IPL trophy for a record fifth time, joint-most with Mumbai Indians, MS Dhoni, during the post-match presser, was again asked about his future, to which he replied&nbsp;that he would like to return for one more season next year&nbsp;for the love he got from the fans though&nbsp;announcing his retirement at this&nbsp;stage would be an ideal thing.</p>

<p>Talking about MS'&nbsp;plans, Kasi said Dhoni informed the head management about him undergoing rehab following his knee surgery in Mumbai and not considering playing any competitive cricket at least until January next year.</p>

<p>"Actually, he told us immediately after the final is over, he'll fly to Mumbai, have surgery and go back to Ranchi for rehab," Viswanathan said. "In Mumbai, after Ruturaj's wedding [on June 4], I visited him. It was a courtesy call. He's quite comfortable. He said he'll rest for three weeks and then start his rehab. And like he said, he's not going to play until January-February. We don't need to remind him about all that."</p>

<p>"He knows what to do, how to go about it, so we aren't going to ask him 'What are you going to do, how' etc. He will inform us on his own. Whatever he's doing, he'll call first and inform only Mr N Srinivasan, not anyone else. Factually, he'll be straightforward with him. From him, we'll get the information that this is what he's doing. It's been this way since 2008. That's how it will continue,” he added.</p>

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Kasi Viswanathan, Chennai Super Kings CEO, revealed that captain MS Dhoni didn’t consider missing a single IPL game this season due to his troubled knee. Kasi further said that 'captain cool' never complained about it to anyone throughout the season, and it was only after winning the title against Gujarat Titans when Dhoni informed the management about him going under the knife.

Kasi Viswanathan, Chennai Super Kings CEO, revealed that captain MS Dhoni didn’t consider missing a single IPL game this season due to his troubled knee. Kasi further said that 'captain cool' never complained about it to anyone throughout the season, and it was only after winning the title against Gujarat Titans when Dhoni informed the management about him going under the knife. Kasi added none from the management asked MS to take a call on his troubled knee during the tournament, knowing MS would rest himself if it needed to be. The long-serving boss of IPL’s most famous franchise showered praises on CSK’s oldest player, saying despite going through the pain, Dhoni stood by his team and showed commitment, for which he needs to get appreciated. "We never asked him things like 'do you want to play or do you want to sit out.' If he can't, he would've told us straightaway," CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan told ESPNcricinfo Tamil in an interview. "We knew it was a struggle for him to play, but his commitment to the team, his leadership and how the team benefits everyone knows. From that perspective, you have to appreciate him." ALSO READ: Former India chief selector reveals how MS Dhoni became India's permanent white-ball captain "Till the final, he never complained about his knee to anybody. Though everyone knew, and you would've seen him struggling while running, he never complained even once. After the final, he said, 'okay, I'll have a surgery.' He's finished his surgery, he's quite happy, he's recovering,” Kasi added. ‘He knows what to do’ – Kasi on MS Dhoni After helping his team lift the IPL trophy for a record fifth time, joint-most with Mumbai Indians, MS Dhoni, during the post-match presser, was again asked about his future, to which he replied that he would like to return for one more season next year for the love he got from the fans though announcing his retirement at this stage would be an ideal thing. Talking about MS' plans, Kasi said Dhoni informed the head management about him undergoing rehab following his knee surgery in Mumbai and not considering playing any competitive cricket at least until January next year. "Actually, he told us immediately after the final is over, he'll fly to Mumbai, have surgery and go back to Ranchi for rehab," Viswanathan said. "In Mumbai, after Ruturaj's wedding [on June 4], I visited him. It was a courtesy call. He's quite comfortable. He said he'll rest for three weeks and then start his rehab. And like he said, he's not going to play until January-February. We don't need to remind him about all that." "He knows what to do, how to go about it, so we aren't going to ask him 'What are you going to do, how' etc. He will inform us on his own. Whatever he's doing, he'll call first and inform only Mr N Srinivasan, not anyone else. Factually, he'll be straightforward with him. From him, we'll get the information that this is what he's doing. It's been this way since 2008. That's how it will continue,” he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

MS Dhoni didn't consider missing a single IPL game due to troubled knee, reveals CSK's CEO

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