Mahendra Singh Dhoni is one of the most loved cricketers in India. And whenever one sees the jersey number 7, every cricket fan remembers the former India great. Despite being retired from international cricket a few years ago, the legendary captain continues to receive love and admiration from all parts of the country.
The World Cup-winning captain took his first steps in international cricket in the year 2004 and, 16 years later, on 15th August 2020, he called time on his international cricket career. Throughout his cricket career, he wore the number seven jersey. Recently, in a promotional event, he was asked why he chose no. 7 when asked about his preferred number.
To that, Dhoni answered in a very light-hearted tone. Because his birth date and birthday month were 7, he didn’t have to think too much before deciding his jersey number.
“That is the time or day my parents decided I would come on earth,” MS Dhoni said, cracking up the audience at the promotional event.
“So, I was born on the 7th of July. So July is again the seventh month. 81 was the year so 8-1 = 7. So it was very easy for me to go out there when they asked me, ‘Okay, what number do you want’,” he added.
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Just Thala Dhoni being Thala Dhoni !! 😂❤️#MSDhoni #WhistlePodu #Dhoni @msdhoni
🎥 via @/single.id pic.twitter.com/Y68CqES6h3— TEAM MS DHONI #Dhoni (@imDhoni_fc) February 10, 2024
The number seven became very popular in India after Dhoni wore it consistently for a few years after making his debut. BCCI retired the number seven jersey in the year 2023. Earlier, only number 10 jersey worn by Sachin Tendulkar was retired by the board.
The Popularity of Dhoni’s Jersey Number 7
Now, the players are not allowed to wear number 7 and number 10 jerseys in Men’s cricket anymore. MS Dhoni is hailed as one of the biggest superstars the nation has produced. He has left a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
Apart from his big-hitting ability and wicket-keeping skills, the veteran cricketer was admired for his leadership skills. Under his captaincy, India won the ICC T20 World Cup 2007, 2011 World Cup, and ICC 2013 Champions Trophy.
Dhoni has retired from international cricket but continues to play in the Indian Premier League for Chennai Super Kings. He led the franchise to win their fifth IPL title last season and, become the joint most successful franchise in the cash-rich league.
The fans are eagerly waiting for Dhoni to make his comeback ahead of the upcoming season.
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