India's decorated captain MS Dhoni on June 9 was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame. Dhoni who led India to T20 World Cup 2007, ODI World Cup 2011 and ICC Champions Trophy 2013 triumphs along with the Test mace, became the 11th Indian to get the honour.
"It is an honour to be named in the ICC Hall of Fame, which recognises the contributions of cricketers across generations and from all over the world. To have your name remembered alongside such all-time greats is a wonderful feeling. It is something that I will cherish forever," Dhoni said in a statement released by the ICC.
Other inductees into ICC Hall of Fame
Along with Dhoni, former Australia opener Matthew Hayden, former South Africa opener Hashim Amla, former South Africa captain Graeme Smith, former New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori, former Pakistan women's team captain Sana Mir and former England wicketkeeper-batter Sarah Taylor were honoured as well.
"Through the ICC Hall of Fame, we pay tribute to the finest players the game has seen, individuals whose remarkable careers have shaped cricket's legacy and inspired generations," ICC chairman Jay Shah said at a gala event at Abbey Road Studios in London.
“This year, we are privileged to induct seven truly outstanding individuals into this prestigious group. On behalf of the ICC, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each of them and hope they cherish this well-deserved recognition as a defining moment in their cricketing journey.”
Shastri praises Dhoni at ICC event
Former India all-rounder and head coach Ravi Shastri lauded Dhoni for his prowess behind the stumps.
“He has hands faster than that of a pickpocket. If you're ever in India, going for a big game, especially in Ahmedabad, you don't want MS behind you; watch that back. The wallet will disappear,” said Shastri whose iconic commentary -- "MS Dhoni finishes in style..." -- still echoes in Indian cricket fans' memory.
“He gets out for zero, it’s the same; he wins the World Cup, it’s the same; he gets a hundred, it’s the same, and two hundred, it’s the same. There is absolutely, you know, no difference,” he added.
Meanwhile, Dhoni is yet to give a definitive answer about whether he will return for another Indian Premier League (IPL) season or not. Dhoni's CSK struggled with injuries and poor form as they finished at the bottom of the points table.