ICC pays tribute to legend Dhoni, ahead of his birthday
MS Dhoni has been an inspiration for budding cricketers, around the globe. The former Indian captain has already etched his name as one of the GOATs of white-ball cricket. An ambassador of the game, Dhoni has won it all. He is currently playing in the ICC World Cup 2019. The ICC paid a special tribute to Dhoni, ahead of his 38th birthday, on Sunday.
MS Dhoni: Not just a name
Several top cricketers praise MSD
Dhoni will turn 38 on Sunday, July 7. The wicket-keeper batsman, who has won it all for India, has been a servant of Indian cricket since 2004. In this special video by ICC, the likes of Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes and Mohammad Shahzad were seen ushering praise on MSD. They all look up to him. Indian skipper Virat Kohli too shared his insights.
Dhoni hasn't quite hit the ground running in CWC 19
This World Cup, Dhoni hasn't quite fired as expected. He has played seven innings and scored 223 runs at an average of 44.60. However, he hasn't been able to finish off games as was evident against England. He was also too slow against Afghanistan and struggled against the spinners. For this, even legend Sachin Tendulkar had blasted the former skipper.
Dhoni has received constant support from Team India
Dhoni has received constant backing from Indian captain Virat Kohli. The Indian team management also supports him. Batting coach Sanjay Bangar said that there are no concerns over his presence in the team. Bangar had also highlighted his importance and praised him for winning games for India. Being his last CWC, the legend would want to give it all.
The reality of Dhoni in World Cup 2019
Credit also needs to be given to England bowlers for making life difficult for Dhoni and the others in the encounter at Edgbaston last week. On a slow pitch, their variety stood out. His intent shouldn't be questioned here. Dhoni struggled against Afghanistan and players do have off days. He impressed though against the likes of Australia and West Indies.
A lot of talk going on around MSD's retirement
Dhoni's retirement from cricket has been speculated ever since the 2018 tour of England. Earlier, reports stated that one could see the World Cup be Dhoni's last outing for India. A senior BCCI official, who didn't want to be named told PTI, "You never know with MS Dhoni. But it is unlikely that he will continue to play for India after this World Cup."
Dhoni quashes retirement talks: Report
According to a report in ABP News, Dhoni quashed retirement talks and said many people (fans) want him to quit. "I don't know when I will retire. But a lot of people want me to retire before tomorrow's game (against Sri Lanka)," said MSD.
Dhoni deserves more respect and the CWC isn't about him
Dhoni's calmness is something that has been a crucial factor for India. He deserves every bit of respect. Also, the World Cup isn't just about him, but the entire team. At this stage, cornering MSD is completely unnecessary. Many wrote him off last year, but he responded brilliantly. Dhoni has scored 550 runs in 16 matches this year, that includes five fifties.
