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MS Dhoni

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, commonly known as Mahi, is an Indian former international cricketer and one of the most successful captains in Indian cricket.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Mahendra Singh Dhoni (born 7 July 1981), commonly known as Mahi, is an Indian former international cricketer who played as a right-handed batter and wicket-keeper. He is regarded as one of the most successful captains in Indian cricket, having led the team to victories in the 2007 ICC World Twenty20 and the 2011 Cricket World Cup.

Career

Dhoni rose through Indian domestic cricket before becoming a regular for India and later a central figure in limited-overs cricket. He became known for finishing matches, wicket-keeping, and calm leadership.

Captaincy

Dhoni led India in multiple formats and is credited with some of the national team's most notable tournament victories. Sources also describe him as one of India's most successful captains.

Nickname and public image

The nickname Mahi is widely used in media and fan references to Dhoni. He is also popularly associated with the nickname Captain Cool because of his composed on-field style.

Key facts

  • Dhoni is widely known by the nickname Mahi.
  • He was born in Ranchi on 7 July 1981.
  • He captained India to wins in the 2007 ICC World Twenty20 and the 2011 Cricket World Cup.
  • He is also associated with Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Mahi in cricket?
Mahi is a nickname for Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the Indian former cricketer.
What did MS Dhoni play as?
He played as a right-handed batter and wicket-keeper.
When was MS Dhoni born?
He was born on 7 July 1981.
What are Dhoni’s biggest achievements?
He captained India to the 2007 ICC World Twenty20 and the 2011 Cricket World Cup titles.
Which teams is Dhoni strongly associated with?
He is associated with India, Jharkhand, and Chennai Super Kings.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MS_Dhoni
    Supports: Nickname Mahi; full name; birth date; birthplace; batting style; wicket-keeper role.
  2. The Times of India — https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/ipl/player-stats/ms-dhoni/3676
    Supports: Nickname Mahi; date of birth; role; right-handed batting; Chennai Super Kings association.
  3. ESPN Cricinfo (reproduced copy) — https://www.scribd.com/doc/186469447/MS-Dhoni-India-Cricket-Cricket-Players-and-Officials-ESPN-Cricinfo
    Supports: Dhoni as wicketkeeper-batsman; India captain in limited overs; major ICC tournament wins.
  4. NDTV Sports — https://sports.ndtv.com/cricket/players/700-ms-dhoni-playerprofile
    Supports: Birth details; national side; batting style; bowling style; late-career IPL performance.
  5. The Telegraph India — https://www.telegraphindia.com/west-bengal/mahi-of-midnapore/cid/1255392
    Supports: Dhoni being called Mahi and his rise through India A to the national side.