Fascinating facts about Mahendra Singh Dhoni that every cricket fan should be aware of

From underappreciated career highlights to trivia about Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s love life, here are some facts about the athlete that you might not be aware of.

From underappreciated career highlights to trivia about Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s love life, not only has the 39-year-old left an exceptional legacy that can be compared to that of cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Kapil Dev, but Dhoni is also a well-liked celebrity for his down-to-earth, committed attitude, his unpredictable hobbies, and his adorable romance. Scroll down to discover about MS Dhoni that set him apart.

1. Before he became a professional cricketer, MS Dhoni worked for the Indian Railways.

If you’ve seen MS Dhoni: The Untold Story, you might be familiar with this one. Dhoni, like many famous people who come from diverse backgrounds, had an unlikely career before entering the world of cricket. From 2001 to 2003, he served as a Train Ticket Examiner (TTE) at Kharagpur Railway Station in Midnapore for South Eastern Railway.

2. In 2003, he was spotted at a small talent show.

The player got his big break in 2003 during a cricket match in Jamshedpur as part of the BCCI’s small-town talent-spotting program.

3. Dhoni did not only play cricket; he even dabbled in football and badminton.

Prior to playing full-time cricket, the player was a goalie for his school’s football team and even dabbled in badminton.

4. He is the only player to have been named ICC One-Day International Player of the Year twice.

MS Dhoni’s long list of career accomplishments includes becoming the first player in history to receive the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) ODI Player of the Year award twice—in 2008 and 2009.

5. The sportsman has an enviable set of motorcycles worth crores of rupees.

MS Dhoni officially paid Rs4,500 for his first bike. Today, he is the landlord of a multi-million dollar garage that houses everything from antique parts to much-loved new ones.

6. MS Dhoni’s signature “Helicopter Shot” was taught to him by a former teammate and close friend.

Dhoni did not invent the trademark shot that everybody likes. It was handed on to him by his childhood friend and former Jharkhand teammate, Santosh Lal, according to MS Dhoni: The Untold Story.

7. The cricketer has also been given the title of ‘Lieutenant Colonel.’

On November 1, 2011, MS Dhoni became the second cricketer, after Kapil Dev, to be awarded the honorary title by The Indian Territorial Army.

8. Did you know what Dhoni’s daughter’s name means?

Ziva Dhoni, now five years old, is a social media sensation in her own right. Her name means “radiance,” “brilliance,” or “God’s light,” which is a variation of the Hebrew word “Ziv.”

9. During a match against Pakistan, MS Dhoni met his wife Sakshi Dhoni in Kolkata.

According to The Hindustan Times, the pair met by chance at the Taj Bengal through MS Dhoni’s manager. Sakshi caught his attention right away, and he was the one who texted his now-wife first.

10. He also shares ownership of a motorcycle racing team with Telugu film star Akkineni Nagarjuna.

The squad, known as the Mahi Racing team, is the country’s first World Superbike team.

 

 

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Privacy & Cookies Policy