**MS Dhoni: The Legend, His Teams, and 5 Most Memorable & Shocking Moments**
**Introduction** Mahendra Singh Dhoni, generally known as **"Captain Cool,"** is one of the finest cricketers India has ever produced. From his explosive hitting to his calm leadership, Dhoni has made an indelible stamp on cricket history. He guided India to several ICC titles, revolutionized wicketkeeping, and became an inspiration for millions.
In this article, we’ll explore: - **MS Dhoni’s career and teams ** - **How many players are in a cricket team? ** - **5 most memorable and surprising moments of his career**
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## **MS Dhoni’s Cricket Teams**
Dhoni has been a prominent performer for numerous teams throughout formats:
### **1. Indian National Cricket Team (2004–2019)** - **Debut:** December 2004 (ODI) versus Bangladesh - **Captaincy (2007–2016):** Led India to **2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup, and 2013 Champions Trophy** triumphs. - ** Retirement:** August 2020 (from international cricket)
### **2. Chennai Super Kings (IPL) (2008–2023)** - **Captain:** Led CSK to **5 IPL championships (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023)**. - ** Iconic Finisher:** Known for last-over sixes and tactical brilliance.
### **3. Rising Pune Supergiant (2016–2017)** - Played for RPS during CSK’s two-year ban.
### **Other Teams:** - **Jharkhand (Domestic Cricket)** - **Asia XI (World XI matches)**
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## **How Many Players Are on a Cricket Team? **
A conventional cricket team comprises of **11 players** on the pitch. However, teams normally have:
- **15-member squads** (for ICC events)
- **Substitutes** (12th man for fielding replacements)
Dhoni typically played alongside a core group of players like **Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina, Ravindra Jadeja, and Jasprit Bumrah**, establishing a formidable Indian team.
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## **5 Most Memorable & Shocking Moments of MS Dhoni’s Career**
### **1. 2011 World Cup Final - The Winning Six (April 2, 2011) ** **The Moment:** Chasing 275 against Sri Lanka, Dhoni moved himself up the order and blasted an unbeaten **91 (79 balls)**. The legendary **six off Nuwan Kulasekara** clinched India’s second World Cup after 28 years.
**Why It’s Legendary?** - Dhoni’s daring to bat ahead of Yuvraj Singh paid off.
- His quiet celebration (simply a lifted bat) became famous.
### **2. 2007 T20 World Cup - The Joginder Sharma Final Over (September 24, 2007) ** **The Moment:** In the first-ever T20 World Cup final versus Pakistan, Dhoni took a **huge risk** by handing the last over to **Joginder Sharma** (not Harbhajan or Pathan). Misbah-ul-Haq’s scoop shot landed in Sreesanth’s palms, giving India the title.
**Why It’s Shocking?** - A little-known bowler was trusted in a high-pressure moment.
- Dhoni’s captaincy instincts were proven true.
### **3. Retirement Announcement - A Sudden Instagram Post (August 15, 2020) ** ** The Moment:** At **7:29 PM IST**, Dhoni shared a **simple Instagram video** with the caption: *"Thanks a lot for ur love and support throughout. From 1929 hours regard me as Retired."*
**Why It Was Shocking?** - No press conference, no farewell match. - Fans anticipated a big exit, but Dhoni chose silence.
### **4. 2019 World Cup Semi-Final Run-Out (July 10, 2019) ** **The Moment:** Chasing 240 against New Zealand, Dhoni was **run out by Martin Guptill** by a **millimeter** (by DRS). India lost by 18 runs, ending Dhoni’s last World Cup.
**Why It Was Heartbreaking?** - A rare Dhoni setback in a chase.
- Fans questioned if he might retire shortly after.
### **5. IPL 2023 Final - Dhoni’s Last Dance? (May 29, 2023) ** **The Moment:** At **41**, Dhoni guided CSK to a **record-equaling 5th IPL title** against Gujarat Titans. Despite knee difficulties, he struck a last-ball six in Qualifier 1.
**Why It Was Emotional?**
- Speculations regarding his retirement arose.
- Fans yelled *"Dhoni! Dhoni!"* throughout the season.
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## **Conclusion** MS Dhoni’s career has been marked with **unforgettable highs and startling twists**. From World Cup-winning sixes to abrupt retirements, he kept spectators on the edge. His legacy as **India’s finest finisher and captain** remains unsurpassed.
Would you prefer a deeper look into any given moment? Let me know in the comments! 🏏🔥