Mahendra Singh Dhoni, affectionately known as 'Captain Cool', MSD or Mahi, is one of cricket’s most iconic figures. Here are 10 of his greatest moments from legendary career:
His calm demeanor, sharp mind, and explosive batting have gifted fans countless unforgettable moments.
10. Retirement Announcement (2020)
In true Dhoni style, he quietly announced his international retirement with a simple Instagram video, leaving fans teary-eyed and nostalgic. When some greats get a deserved ovation, Dhoni was content to go in a typically understated manner.
9. Finishing Off Matches With Calmness
Whether it was hitting a six off the last ball or chasing steep targets with composure, Dhoni’s finishing ability became legendary. His wristy helicopter shot became his trademark as he had the ability to judge the pace of chases and go through the gears.
Dhoni was lauded in a cricket crazed country and was also the height of cool, riving man of the match motorbikes and cars across the ground and attracting huge crowds purely to see him practice.
8. First Test Century (2006, Faisalabad)
Dhoni smashed 148 off just 153 balls against Pakistan in only his fifth Test—showing he wasn’t just a limited-overs star.
7. Last Ball Run-Out vs Bangladesh (2016)
Dhoni’s sharp sprint to break the stumps sealed a last-ball thriller against Bangladesh in the T20 World Cup.
The presence of mind to remove the keeper gloves, just instinct and speed, amid a cauldron of tension.
Like any human being, there would have been tension within, but the run out epitomised Dhoni's ability to think clearly and engage his cricket brain in the most testing circumstances. That trait led him to be a remarkably cool captain of India and Chennai Super Kings.
6. Promoting Himself in 2011 World Cup Final
Dhoni came in ahead of the in-form Yuvraj Singh in the World Cup final— a bold, match-winning move that showed his game awareness and leadership.
5. Stumping Mustafizur in 0.08 Seconds (2016 T20 World Cup)
His lightning-quick reflexes stunned the world as he produced one of the fastest stumpings ever seen—removing Mustafizur with a flick of the gloves.
4. 183* vs Sri Lanka (2005)
Early in his career, Dhoni announced himself with a blistering 183* off 145 balls while chasing 299. It remains the highest score by a wicketkeeper in ODIs.
3. 2013 Champions Trophy Win
Dhoni became the first and only captain to win all ICC trophies (ODI WC, T20 WC, Champions Trophy), after leading India to a gritty win against England in a rain-affected final.
Dhoni is regarded in India as the greatest captain of all-time.
2. 2007 T20 World Cup Triumph
In his debut tournament as captain, Dhoni led a young Indian team to victory in the inaugural T20 World Cup. His decision to give the last over to Joginder Sharma in the final is still talked about today.
1. 2011 World Cup Final – The Dhoni Winning Six
Undoubtedly Dhoni’s most iconic moment. With 91* off 79 balls, Dhoni finished the 2011 World Cup in style by launching Nuwan Kulasekara over long-on for a six, sealing India’s first World Cup win in 28 years.
MS Dhoni wasn’t just a cricketer—he was a phenomenon. His legacy as a captain, finisher, and leader will forever echo in cricket history.
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