Happy Birthday MS Dhoni: 7 Unforgettable Knocks Of India's Legendary Icon - In Pics

MS Dhoni displayed remarkable resilience and composure as he single-handedly rescued India from a disastrous start. Batting first after losing the toss, India was in deep trouble at 29/5. Sensing the urgency, Dhoni took charge and orchestrated a brilliant fightback. Partnering with the lower order, he ensured that India batted the full 50 overs, providing a masterclass in batting under pressure.

In the first Test of the four-match series against Australia in Chennai, MS Dhoni delivered a sensational double century, rescuing India from a challenging position of 196/4 in response to Australia's total of 380. Partnering with Virat Kohli, Dhoni forged a crucial 128-run stand for the fifth wicket, stabilizing the Indian innings against a formidable Australian bowling attack.

MS Dhoni's unforgettable last-over heroics in the 2013 Celkon Cup final against Sri Lanka created a thrilling climax that remains cherished by fans. Dhoni arrived at the crease with India in a favorable position, as Rohit Sharma was well-set and the target of 202 runs seemed within reach. However, the game took a dramatic turn that no one anticipated. Despite their strong start, India experienced a shocking collapse, plummeting from 139/3 to a precarious 182/9.

MS Dhoni showcased remarkable skill and composure, scoring 124 runs off just 107 balls, including nine fours and three sixes. The then Indian captain forged vital partnerships with Gautam Gambhir and Suresh Raina, who also played key roles in boosting India's total. Thanks to Dhoni's exceptional batting performance, India set a formidable target of 354 runs for Australia.

MS Dhoni achieved his highest ODI score, an impressive 183 not out off 145 balls, just six months after his maiden century. In the third match of a 7-game series, where India already led 2-0, Sri Lanka set a challenging target with a robust total of 298 runs, thanks to centuries from Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene.

MS Dhoni first teamed up with Virender Sehwag in a thrilling 96-run stand. He then partnered with Rahul Dravid for a formidable 149-run partnership, contributing a blistering 99 off 76 balls. Thanks to their efforts, India posted an imposing total of 356/9, which proved to be an insurmountable challenge for Pakistan. India secured a convincing 58-run victory. Dhoni remained unbeaten with a stellar 148 off 123 balls, including 15 fours and four sixes.

After Virat Kohli was dismissed for 35, MS Dhoni walked onto the pitch. He adeptly tackled Sri Lankan spinner Muttiah Muralitharan and formed a crucial partnership with Gautam Gambhir, which revived India's chances in the game. Dhoni then sealed the World Cup victory with a stunning six off Nuwan Kulasekara, ending India's 28-year wait for the trophy. The Indian captain's heroics shone when they were most needed, and his magnificent, unbeaten 91-run innings from just 79 balls earned him the Player of the Match award in the final.