When you are the captain of the Indian Test side, scrutiny becomes a constant companion. For Shubman Gill, already a familiar face in Indian cricket’s spotlight, the pressure has intensified…
Mahendra Singh Dhoni was born on July 7, 1981, in Ranchi, Bihar (present-day Jharkhand). His father, Pan Singh, worked at MECON, a public sector enterprise. His mother, Devaki Devi, managed the household and supported her children’s ambitions. Dhoni showed a keen interest in sports from a young age. He excelled in football as a goalkeeper and also played badminton at the district level.
However, his school’s cricket coach recognized his reflexes and encouraged him to try wicketkeeping. Dhoni soon joined the Commando Cricket Club, where he trained rigorously. His performances at school and club level impressed selectors. He later represented Central Coal Fields Limited (CCL) and shone in inter-department tournaments, laying the groundwork for his professional career.
Dhoni gained fame for his composed nature. He earned the title “Captain Cool” for handling storms calmly . Besides, he prefers a minimalist lifestyle. Moreover, he values discipline in training and diet . After matches, he enjoys biking through scenic routes . Additionally, he loves wildlife photography during his downtime . Consequently, he balances fame with simplicity and peace.
Dhoni married childhood friend Sakshi Singh Rawat on July 4, 2010 . They welcomed daughter Ziva in February 2015 . The family keeps a private, peaceful life. Additionally, Dhoni occasionally shares family moments on social media . Furthermore, he remains close with his sister and childhood friends. Clearly, family anchors and inspires him.
Dhoni began domestic cricket with Bihar in the 1999–2000 season. After the state’s bifurcation, he started representing Jharkhand. In the early stages, he juggled his railway job with cricket, working as a ticket collector in Kharagpur. Despite limited resources, he remained focused on improving his game. In the 2003–04 season, he scored 244 runs in four first-class matches, including an eye-catching century. As a result, he earned a spot in the East Zone team for the Duleep Trophy. There, his aggressive stroke play and consistent glove work stood out. Scouts from the National Cricket Academy noticed his potential, which soon led to his selection in the India A squad for the Kenya and Zimbabwe tour in 2004.
December 2004: Test debut vs Bangladesh
April 2005: ODI debut vs Sri Lanka
December 2006: T20I debut vs South Africa
Led India in 2007 T20 World Cup victory
Captured the 2011 ODI World Cup
Won the 2013 Champions Trophy
Retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020
| Format | Matches | Runs | Ave | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 90 | 4,876 | 38.00 | 6 | 10 |
| ODI | 350 | 10,773 | 50.57 | 10 | 73 |
| T20I | 98 | 1,617 | 37.00 | 0 | 2 |
Dhoni captained Chennai Super Kings (CSK) since 2008. Under his leadership, CSK became the most successful IPL side. Moreover, CSK won the championship in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023. He played 278 matches, scored 5,439 runs at a 38.30 average, and struck at 137.45. Further, he achieved 200 dismissals (153 catches & 47 stumpings) as a keeper. Dhoni’s calm decision-making under pressure earned widespread praise. He also guided young players like Ruturaj Gaikwad and Deepak Chahar. Even in his 40s, his fitness and leadership continued to inspire CSK’s success.
In mid‑2023, Dhoni underwent knee surgery . He faced speculation on his future. However, he returned strongly in IPL 2024. He played all 14 matches and scored heavily with a 220+ strike-rate. Also, his strict training, including cardio and flexibility, kept him fit and sharp . Moreover, his comeback showed mental and physical strength.
Dhoni earned many accolades for his achievements:
ICC ODI Player of the Year: 2008 & 2009
Padma Shri in 2009 & Padma Bhushan in 2018
Wisden India Cricketer of the Year in 2014
Multiple appearances in ICC Teams of the Year
ICC Hall of Fame induction in June 2025
