Mahendra Singh Dhoni, fondly known as “Captain Cool” or simply “Mahi.” A man of remarkable skill, unwavering composure, and unparalleled leadership, Dhoni has left an indelible mark on the sport through his masterful innings. Let’s take a look at his top 10 best innings, each a testament to his cricketing genius and enduring legacy.
MS Dhoni Best Innings Top 10
- World Cup Final, vs Sri Lanka (2011): 91* runs in the ICC Cricket World Cup final.
- Helicopter Finish, vs Sri Lanka (2013): 183* runs against Sri Lanka.
- World T20 Final, vs Pakistan (2007): 24* runs in the ICC T20 World Cup final.
- Adelaide Chase, vs Australia (2012): 224 runs against Australia.
- Debut Century, vs Pakistan (2005): 148 runs on Test debut against Pakistan.
- CB Series Final, vs Sri Lanka (2012): 58* runs in the CB Series final.
- Heroic Save, vs Pakistan (2013): 113 runs against Pakistan.
- Incredible Finish, vs Sri Lanka (2009): 45* runs in the ICC T20 World Cup.
- ODI Captaincy Debut, vs Bangladesh (2007): 91* runs in his ODI captaincy debut.
- Asia Cup Final, vs Sri Lanka (2010): 58* runs in the Asia Cup final.
1. World Cup Final, vs Sri Lanka (2011): 91* runs
Inarguably one of the most iconic moments in cricketing history, Dhoni’s unbeaten 91 runs in the ICC Cricket World Cup final against Sri Lanka will forever be etched in the hearts of millions. With India chasing down a challenging target, Dhoni’s calm demeanor and astute batting steered the team to a historic triumph, lifting the coveted World Cup after 28 years. Also Read Sachin Tendulkar’s Best Innings of All Time Top 10
2. Helicopter Finish, vs Sri Lanka (2013): 183* runs
Dhoni’s majestic 183* against Sri Lanka stands as a testament to his ability to single-handedly change the course of a game. With his trademark “helicopter shot” in full swing, Dhoni’s innings was a spectacle of power-hitting and finesse, guiding India to a resounding victory.
3. World T20 Final, vs Pakistan (2007): 24* runs
In the inaugural ICC T20 World Cup final against Pakistan, Dhoni’s composed 24* runs under immense pressure showcased his leadership prowess. His calculated approach and calm demeanor in a high-stakes encounter led India to their first-ever T20 World Cup triumph, marking the beginning of a golden era in Indian cricket.
4. Adelaide Chase, vs Australia (2012): 224 runs
Dhoni’s monumental 224 runs against Australia at Adelaide epitomized his resilience and ability to thrive in adverse conditions. Facing a formidable Australian bowling attack, Dhoni’s gritty innings anchored India’s monumental chase, earning him accolades from cricketing enthusiasts worldwide.
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5. Debut Century, vs Pakistan (2005): 148 runs
On his Test debut against Pakistan, Dhoni announced his arrival on the international stage with a scintillating 148 runs. His fearless strokeplay and audacious approach marked the beginning of a stellar career, laying the foundation for future successes.
6. CB Series Final, vs Sri Lanka (2012): 58* runs
Dhoni’s unbeaten 58* runs in the CB Series final against Sri Lanka exemplified his ability to deliver under pressure. With India in a precarious position, Dhoni’s calculated aggression and astute decision-making guided the team to a memorable victory, clinching the series trophy.
7. Heroic Save, vs Pakistan (2013): 113 runs
In a thrilling encounter against Pakistan, Dhoni’s valiant 113 runs rescued India from a precarious situation, showcasing his ability to thrive in challenging circumstances. His innings turned the tide of the match and earned him accolades for his match-winning performance.
8. Incredible Finish, vs Sri Lanka (2009): 45* runs
Dhoni’s unbeaten 45* runs in the ICC T20 World Cup against Sri Lanka exemplified his prowess as a finisher. With India needing runs in a tense final over, Dhoni’s calculated aggression and unflappable temperament propelled India to victory, etching his name in cricketing folklore.
9. ODI Captaincy Debut, vs Bangladesh (2007): 91* runs
On his ODI captaincy debut against Bangladesh, Dhoni’s unbeaten 91* runs symbolized the dawn of a new era in Indian cricket. His authoritative batting and astute leadership laid the groundwork for future successes, setting the stage for a remarkable captaincy tenure.
10. Asia Cup Final, vs Sri Lanka (2010): 58* runs
Dhoni’s unbeaten 58* runs in the Asia Cup final against Sri Lanka showcased his ability to deliver under pressure on the big stage. With the match hanging in the balance, Dhoni’s composed innings guided India to a memorable victory, cementing his status as a match-winner.
Career Statistics
| M | Inn | NO | Runs | HS | Avg | BF | SR | 100 | 200 | 50 | 4s | 6s | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 90 | 144 | 16 | 4876 | 224 | 38.09 | 8248 | 59.12 | 6 | 1 | 33 | 544 | 78 |
| ODI | 350 | 297 | 84 | 10773 | 183 | 50.58 | 12303 | 87.56 | 10 | 0 | 73 | 826 | 229 |
| T20I | 98 | 85 | 42 | 1617 | 56 | 37.6 | 1282 | 126.13 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 116 | 52 |
| IPL | 250 | 218 | 87 | 5082 | 84 | 38.79 | 3739 | 135.92 | 0 | 0 | 24 | 349 | 239 |
Conclusion
MS Dhoni’s top 10 best innings stand as a testament to his extraordinary talent, leadership, and ability to deliver when it mattered most. With each masterful performance, Dhoni etched his name in cricketing folklore and inspired millions with his cricketing prowess. As we reminisce about his glorious innings, we celebrate the enduring legacy of a true cricketing legend – Mahendra Singh Dhoni.