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Bhubaneswar/New Delhi: Putting an end to all speculations, legendary Indian cricketer, MS Dhoni has announced his retirement from all formats of international cricket.
View this post on Instagram
Thanks a lot for ur love and support throughout.from 1929 hrs consider me as Retired
Taking to his Instagram account, the captain fantastic wrote, 'Thanks a lot for ur love and support throughout. from 1929 hrs consider me as Retired.'
The only captain who has won each and every cricket trophy for India, Dhoni’s records speaks for themselves.
Dhoni's last match in Indian colours was when the Men in Blue lost against New Zealand in the semi-final of the 2019 World Cup at Old Trafford.
He spearheaded India to their second-ever ODI World Cup glory in 2011 and also scripted success at 2007 ICC World Twenty 20, the 2010 and 2016 Asia Cups, and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy.
Dhoni, who had announced his retirement from Tests in 2014, has played 350 ODIs in which he had amassed 10773 runs at an average of 50.57 with 10 centuries and 73 fifties to his name.
Born on July 7, 1981, Dhoni made his debut in the international cricket in 2004 against Bangladesh and went on to become one of the fantastic cricketers in all forms of the Gentleman's Game.
Soon after the news broke, cricketing fraternity, eminent personalities and fans have begun to flood social media with messages of heartfelt tributes for the captain cool.
Home Minister Amit Shah took to Twitter to thank Mahi for his contribution to Indian cricket and wished for his future endeavours.
.@msdhoni has mesmerized millions through his unique style of cricket. I hope he will continue to contribute towards strengthening Indian cricket in the times to come. Best wishes for his future endeavours.
World cricket will miss the helicopter shots, Mahi!
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) August 15, 2020
Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar shared a glimpse of India's epic victory over Sri Lanka in the World Cup 2011 final and called it the best moment of his life sharing the stage with MSD.
Your contribution to Indian cricket has been immense, @msdhoni. Winning the 2011 World Cup together has been the best moment of my life. Wishing you and your family all the very best for your 2nd innings. pic.twitter.com/5lRYyPFXcp
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) August 15, 2020
Sharing a heartfelt message for the decorated skipper, Indian cricket team captain, Virat Kohli wrote, 'The mutual respect and warmth I've received from you will always stay in mine. The world has seen achievements, I've seen the person. Thanks for everything skip. I tip my hat to you.'
Every cricketer has to end his journey one day, but still when someone you've gotten to know so closely announces that decision, you feel the emotion much more. What you've done for the country will always remain in everyone's heart...... pic.twitter.com/0CuwjwGiiS
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) August 15, 2020
Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik also paid tribute to the iconic cricketer through his twitter handle.
Join millions of sports lovers and cricket fans to bid farewell to #MSDhoni who has left a glittering legacy; the only captain who lifted all three ICC trophies & inspired a generation. Cricket will miss the captain cool. Wish you all the best.
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) August 15, 2020
Harsha Bhogle wrote in his twitter account, ‘That is what I thought he would do. Just like that.....#MSDhoni’. He shared a video post in which Indian cricketers Zaheer Khan, Mohammad Kaif and Robin Uthappa were seen shedding light on his greatness.
That is what I thought he would do. Just like that.....#MSDhoni https://t.co/DJ9rwyxU6y
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) August 15, 2020
As cricket critics say, he is more than just a charismatic captain because of his immense ability to consistently perform well as a batsman and wicket-keeper. Highest ODI stumpings and most international matches as a captain and the record as one of the highest ever ODI run-getters say it all.
He is also credited to have played pivotal roles in shaping the careers of many Indian and foreign cricketers as a mentor.
ICC ODI player of the year twice in 2008 and 2009, the decorated captain was felicitated with Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna in 2007 and the Padma Shri in 2009.
After MSD announced retirement, Chief Minister of Jharkhand, Hemant Soren urged BCCI to hold a farewell match for the cricketer in his home state.
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