15 Surprising Facts That Make Dhoni “Captain Cool” Even Cooler
M.S. Dhoni, the name synonymous with calmness under pressure and lightning-fast stumpings, is a cricketing legend. But beyond the trophies and iconic hairstyles, lies a man with a treasure trove of interesting stories. Here are 15 surprising facts you might not know about Captain Cool:
1. The Ticket to Cricket: Before conquering the cricketing world, Dhoni was a Train Ticket Examiner (TTE) at Kharagpur Railway Station. His dedication to both roles showcased his remarkable work ethic.
2. Goalkeeper Turned Wicketkeeper: Dhoni wasn’t always destined for the crease. In his school days, he was a talented goalkeeper, showcasing his agility and reflexes that would later translate brilliantly behind the stumps.
3. The Man with Many Names: Dhoni’s full name, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, translates to “blessed with power by the lord”. Talk about living up to your name!
4. The $1.5 Million Man: In the inaugural IPL season, Dhoni became the most expensive player after Chennai Super Kings acquired him for a whopping $1.5 million.
5. A World Cup Captaincy First: Dhoni is the only captain to have led India to victory in all three major ICC tournaments: the World Cup (2011), the Champions Trophy (2013), and the T20 World Cup (2007).
6. The Unique Batsman: Dhoni is the only batsman in ODI history to score a century while batting at number 7.
7. The Master of the Helicopter Shot: While the ‘helicopter shot’ is synonymous with Dhoni now, it wasn’t always his signature move. He actually learned it from Santosh Lal, his junior teammate in Jharkhand cricket.
8. The Business Mind: Dhoni isn’t just a cricketing genius; he’s a shrewd businessman too. He co-owns the Ranchi Rays franchise in the Hockey India League and has investments in various ventures.
9. The Bike Enthusiast: When not behind the stumps, Dhoni loves his motorcycles. He owns a collection of over 20 bikes, ranging from powerful superbikes to classic cruisers.
10. The Social Media Shy Guy: Despite his immense popularity, Dhoni maintains a limited social media presence, preferring to let his game do the talking.
11. The Award-Winning Leader: Dhoni is the only cricketer to win the ICC Player of the Year award twice (2008 & 2009). Dhoni’s leadership boasts an unparalleled win percentage: a staggering 45% in Tests and a phenomenal 61% in ODIs, making him India’s most successful captain.
12. The Military Man (Fan): Dhoni holds the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Territorial Army, showcasing his deep respect for the armed forces.
13. From Railways to Ranches: Dhoni’s love for animals extends beyond his pet dogs. He’s actively involved in organic farming at his farmhouse near Ranchi, raising livestock and promoting sustainable agriculture.
14. The Chess Champion: Dhoni’s strategic mind extends beyond the cricket pitch. He’s a skilled chess player, known for his calculated moves and strategic thinking.
15. The Power of Visualization: Dhoni is a strong believer in the power of visualization. He often visualizes his batting and wicketkeeping strategies before stepping onto the field.
These 15 facts offer a glimpse into the man behind the legend. Dhoni’s journey from a small-town boy to a global icon is an inspiration, showcasing his dedication, strategic mind, and his ability to stay grounded despite his immense success.
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