MS Dhoni Enters ICC Hall of Fame: MS Dhoni received induction into the ICC Hall of Fame during a prestigious ceremony held at Lord’s Cricket Ground, as the International Cricket Council honored his legendary contributions on June 9, 2025. The event took place on the eve of the World Test Championship Final, celebrating Dhoni’s remarkable impact on international cricket.
A Career That Redefined Leadership
The ICC honored Dhoni for transforming Indian cricket through fearless leadership, calm decision-making, and a legacy of winning. Under his captaincy, India clinched the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup, the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy — making Dhoni the first and only captain to win all three major ICC white-ball tournaments.
Across formats, Dhoni played 538 international matches, scored over 17,000 runs, and effected 829 dismissals as a wicketkeeper — a feat unmatched in Indian cricket history. His presence behind the stumps and his ability to finish matches under pressure turned him into a global icon.
Lord’s Applauds the “Captain Cool”
During the induction ceremony, fans, fellow cricketers, and legends from around the world rose in applause as Dhoni received the honor. ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice presented him with the Hall of Fame cap and praised his contributions, saying, “MS Dhoni changed the way modern cricket sees leadership. His calm, strategic mind and match-winning ability made him a role model across generations.”
Dhoni Responds with Characteristic Humility
Dhoni accepted the honor with quiet grace. “I’m deeply grateful for this recognition,” he said. “I never imagined this journey when I started playing cricket in Ranchi. This belongs to every teammate, coach, and fan who stood by me.”
He also dedicated the honor to his late mentor and childhood coach, Keshav Banerjee, and thanked the Indian Army, with whom he has served as an honorary lieutenant colonel.
Tributes Pour In from Cricketing Legends
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly called Dhoni’s induction “a proud moment for Indian cricket.” Sachin Tendulkar tweeted, “He led by example, inspired millions, and finished games like no one else. A true legend gets his due.”
Australia’s Ricky Ponting, also a Hall of Fame member, said, “You always wanted Dhoni on your side in a crunch moment. His tactical brain and coolness were next-level.”
A Lasting Legacy
Even after retiring from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni continued to influence the game through the Chennai Super Kings, leading them to five IPL titles. His mentorship shaped the next generation of Indian stars like Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, and Rishabh Pant.
By inducting Dhoni, the ICC recognized more than a cricketer — it celebrated a phenomenon who led with dignity, finished with flair, and walked away with the crowd’s eternal respect.
