Former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni (MS Dhoni) remains a prominent figure in world cricket, continually making headlines. At 43, fans are eager to see if he will participate in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL). Recent developments have raised hopes, as the BCCI has reinstated a previously scrapped rule allowing him to be considered ‘uncapped.’
Dhoni often sparks debate. In 2018, experts were divided over whether he should be dropped from the Indian team due to his poor form, particularly concerning his strike rate and struggles to score runs.
South African legend AB de Villiers strongly supported Dhoni, making an exaggerated statement in praise of the Indian great. The former Proteas captain said (as quoted by news agency ANI):
“You guys are funny. No, I would play MS Dhoni in my team every day of every year. He can be 80, in a wheelchair, and he would still play for my team. He is fantastic I mean look at his record. You want to drop a guy like that? You can go ahead by all means. I wouldn’t.”
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In 2018, Dhoni played 20 one-day matches for India, scoring 275 runs at an average of 25 and a strike rate of 71.42, with a top score of 42 not out.
MS Dhoni retired from international cricket in August 2020
Despite worries about his batting form, Indian selectors and team management continued to support Dhoni, considering the 2019 ODI World Cup. He was selected as the primary keeper-batter for the ICC event in England.
The experienced wicketkeeper played nine matches for India in the 2019 World Cup, scoring 273 runs at an average of 45.50 and a strike rate of 87.78. He made an unbeaten 56 off 61 balls against the West Indies and contributed valuable runs in most other matches.
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In a heartbreaking moment for Dhoni and his fans, he was run out for 50 off 72 balls in the semifinal against New Zealand in Manchester, thanks to a stunning direct hit from Martin Guptill.
India lost that knockout match by 18 runs, marking Dhoni’s final appearance for the national team. He announced his retirement from international cricket on August 15, 2020.
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