Former captain of the Indian cricket team, MS Dhoni on Thursday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for appreciating him for his contribution towards Indian cricket. PM Modi posted a lengthy and emotional message for Dhoni, who on August 15 announced his official retirement from international cricket after a decorated 16-year-career.
PM Modi hailed Dhoni for his achievements on the cricket field and everything he has done for the sport in India and the world.
"In your trademark unassuming style, you shared a video that was enough to become a passionate discussion point for the entire nation. 130 Cr Indians were disappointed but also eternally grateful for all that you have done for Indian cricket," PM Modi wrote in a two-page long letter.
Towards the end, the Prime Minister wished Dhoni for his life beyond cricket and hoped that the veteran wicketkeeper-batsman would now get more time to spend with his wife Sakshi and daughter Ziva.
"I hope Sakshi and Ziva get to spend more time with you. I convey my good wishes to them as well, because without their sacrifices and support nothing would have been possible," said Modi
"Our youth could also learn from you how to balance professional and personal priorities; I remember seeing a picture of you playing with your cute daughter even as everyone around you was celebrating a victory in a particular tournament! That was vintage MS Dhoni.
"Wishing you the very best for your future endeavours," he signed off.
Dhoni responded by thanking the Prime Minister for his kind words.
"An Artist, Soldier, and Sportsperson what they crave for is appreciation, that their hard work and sacrifice is getting noticed and appreciated by everyone. thanks, PM @narendramodi for your appreciation and good wishes," Dhoni tweeted.
Dhoni, who made his ODI debut in 2004, changed the face of Indian cricket with his calm demeanor, sharp understanding of the game, and astute leadership qualities. He represented India in 350 ODIs, 90 Tests, and 98 T20Is.
One of the most admired and respected cricketers, Dhoni is also among the most successful captains in world cricket. It was under his leadership that India lifted the World Cup in 2011 after having led India to triumph in the World T20 in its maiden edition of the tournament held in 2007 in South Africa. With India winning the Champions Trophy in 2013 in England, Dhoni became the first and is still the only captain to have won all three ICC Trophies.
The immensely popular cricketer ends his ODI career having played 350 matches, scoring 10,773 runs and effecting 444 dismissals. He holds the record for most dismissals in T20 internationals with 91 in 98 matches.
Overall, Dhoni amassed over 17,000 international runs across formats, including 16 centuries, and more than 800 victims as wicketkeeper.