Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the charismatic and composed leader, left an indelible mark on Indian cricket during his tenure as captain. Dhoni led the Indian team to several memorable victories on the international stage and remains the only Indian captain to win three ICC trophies.
From winning the T20 World Cup in 2007 to leading India to the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup after a hiatus of 28 years, the man has done it all. In fact, it was under Dhoni's leadership that India last won an ICC tournament, the 2013 Champions Trophy.
Here, TSN revisits five famous international wins achieved under Dhoni's inspiring captaincy:
ICC Cricket World Cup 2011
One of the most iconic moments in Indian cricket history came on April 2, 2011, when Dhoni led his team to a historic victory in the ICC Cricket World Cup. In a thrilling final against Sri Lanka held at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, Dhoni showcased his match-winning capabilities by promoting himself up the batting order. With the nation holding its breath, Dhoni struck an unbeaten 91 runs, including the famous winning six, as India lifted the World Cup after 28 years.
ICC T20 World Cup 2007
Under Dhoni's astute leadership, India achieved an extraordinary triumph in the inaugural ICC T20 World Cup held in South Africa. Against all odds, a young Indian team led by Dhoni defied expectations and emerged victorious in a nail-biting final against arch-rivals Pakistan.
Dhoni's tactical decisions and his calmness under pressure played a crucial role in India's success, bringing home the T20 World Cup trophy for the first time. His decision of handing the last over to Joginder Sharma is still hailed by many as one of the masterstrokes.
ICC Champions Trophy 2013
India's triumph in the ICC Champions Trophy 2013 in England further solidified Dhoni's reputation as a master strategist. Despite challenging conditions, Dhoni's shrewd captaincy guided the team to a resounding victory. In a rain-affected final against England at Edgbaston, Dhoni's unbeaten knock of 75 off 65 balls guided India to a memorable win, securing India's second Champions Trophy.
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Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2008-09
Dhoni strategic brilliance was not limited to limited-overs cricket. During the 2008-09 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, Dhoni's leadership played a vital role in India's historic Test series victory Down Under.
He inspired the team to overcome formidable challenges and clinch their first-ever Test series win on Australian soil. Dhoni's ability to bring out the best in his players was on full display during this remarkable triumph.
Asia Cup 2010
Dhoni's captaincy skills were evident in India's victorious campaign in the 2010 Asia Cup held in Sri Lanka. Leading a team that featured a blend of youth and experience, Dhoni led from the front with the bat. In the final against Sri Lanka, Dhoni's unbeaten century helped India chase down a challenging target and lift the Asia Cup trophy.
These victories not only brought glory to Indian cricket but also showcased Dhoni's leadership and ability to make decisive contributions when it mattered the most.
His tenure as captain was characterized by a winning mentality, unwavering determination, and a knack for achieving success in crucial junctures. The five international wins mentioned here are a testament to the incredible leadership and the lasting impact MS Dhoni had on Indian cricket.
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