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Suresh Raina and Mahendra Singh Dhoni (PTI)
Suresh Raina penned a heartfelt tribute to his former captain and close friend, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, following the latter’s induction into the ICC Hall of Fame on Monday.
Dhoni became the 11th Indian player to join this elite group.
Raina lauded Dhoni’s Hall of Fame entry as “well-deserved”.
“The Legend Enters the Hall! @mahi7781 incredible career & contributions to cricket have earned him a well-deserved spot in the Hall of Fame. From electrifying finishes to game-changing leadership, Dhoni bhai has left an indelible mark on the sport. His calm demeanor, razor-sharp instincts & unwavering commitment have inspired millions. A true icon & legend of the game, his legacy will continue to inspire generations of cricketers #MSDhoni #HallOfFame #legend,” Raina wrote in a moving post on Instagram.
Dhoni was among seven cricketers honoured this year, including luminaries such as Matthew Hayden (Australia) and Hashim Amla (South Africa).
Dhoni, who captained India to three major ICC titles – the 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup, and the 2013 Champions Trophy – was commended by the ICC for his calmness under pressure and unparalleled tactical skills, as well as his pioneering influence on the shorter formats of the game. Across all formats, Dhoni amassed 17,266 runs, effected 829 dismissals, and participated in 538 international matches – a testament to his consistency, fitness, and enduring career.
Responding to the honour, Dhoni expressed sincere gratitude: “It is an honour to be named in the ICC Hall of Fame, which recognises the contributions of cricketers across generations and from all over the world. To have your name remembered alongside such all-time greats is a wonderful feeling. It is something that I will cherish forever.”
Though he retired from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni remains an influential figure, continuing to represent Chennai Super Kings in the IPL – and now, his place is eternally secured in cricketing history.
(With inputs from Agencies)
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes on cricket, having cov…Read More
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes on cricket, having cov… Read More
