MS Dhoni’s Historic Career
London, June 9, 2025 — Cricket legend Mahendra Singh Dhoni has officially been inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame, becoming the 11th Indian cricketer to achieve this prestigious milestone. The ceremony took place at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in London, where Dhoni’s legendary career was celebrated alongside six other global cricketing icons.
Dhoni’s Iconic Career by the Numbers
Dhoni’s induction honors his 16-year-long international career, during which he:
- Played 538 international matches
- Scored 17,266 runs
- Recorded 829 dismissals as a wicketkeeper
He remains the only captain in cricket history to win all three ICC men’s white-ball trophies:
- ICC T20 World Cup (2007)
- ICC ODI World Cup (2011)
- ICC Champions Trophy (2013)
BCCI & Global Reactions
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) lauded Dhoni’s contribution, calling him a symbol of “sharp cricketing acumen” and “calm leadership” that transformed Indian cricket.
Former India coach Ravi Shastri added a lighthearted tribute during the event, calling Dhoni “faster than a pickpocket,” referencing his lightning-fast stumpings and unmatched reflexes behind the wickets.
2025 ICC Hall of Fame Class Full List of Inductees
In addition to Dhoni, six other legendary cricketers from around the world were honored:
- Matthew Hayden (Australia) – Powerhouse opener with nearly 15,000 runs and a Test-high 380
- Daniel Vettori (New Zealand) – Legendary left-arm spinner and leader
- Hashim Amla (South Africa) – Graceful batsman with a composed style
- Graeme Smith (South Africa) – One of the most successful Test captains
- Sarah Taylor (England) – Iconic wicketkeeper-batter, one of just 15 women in the Hall of Fame
- Sana Mir (Pakistan) – Pioneering figure in women’s cricket in Pakistan
This diverse lineup highlights the global and inclusive nature of cricket excellence.
Event Highlights & Emotional Moments
- Grace Hayden, daughter of Matthew Hayden, shared a heartfelt post, calling her father “a big soft teddy bear” off the field.
- The ICC ceremony celebrated achievements across generations, formats, and nations.
- Ravi Shastri’s humorous “pickpocket” remark about Dhoni’s reflexes went viral among fans and media alike.
Why MS Dhoni’s Induction Is Historic
- Retirement Rule: Became eligible in August 2025, five years post his retirement (August 2020).
- Legacy Impact: Transformed India’s mindset in white-ball cricket with finishing ability, smart field placements, and that famous helicopter shot.
- Cultural Icon: Beyond stats, Dhoni is a symbol of cool-headed leadership and sportsmanship.
Event Summary
Detail Information Event ICC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Date & Venue June 9, 2025 – Abbey Road Studios, London Indian Inductee MS Dhoni – 11th Indian to enter the Hall of Fame Total Inductees 7 (Dhoni + 6 international legends) Special Moments Ravi Shastri’s “pickpocket” joke, emotional family tributes
Final Thoughts
MS Dhoni’s induction into the ICC Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to one of the most iconic figures in cricket history. The 2025 class, featuring names like Hayden, Amla, and Taylor, underscores the game’s rich global legacy. This moment not only celebrates personal milestones but the enduring unity cricket brings to the world.