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The cricketing world paid rich tribute to one of its most iconic figures as MS Dhoni was officially inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame, joining an elite club of legends who have left an indelible mark on the sport.
MS Dhoni inducted into ICC Hall of Fame ahead of 44th birthday
The announcement, made by the International Cricket Council on June 9, comes as Dhoni approaches his 44th birthday next month, adding a sentimental touch to a milestone that honours a career defined by composure, leadership, and historic achievements. The ICC Hall of Fame recognition comes nearly five years after Dhoni retired from international cricket, marking the end of a glorious chapter.
Dhoni last appeared in Indian colours during the semi-final of the 2019 ODI World Cup, where India suffered a heartbreaking exit at the hands of New Zealand. In that match, he scored a fighting 50 and was run out in what became an emotional farewell of sorts though it wasn’t announced as such at the time. Even after stepping away from international cricket, Dhoni has remained in the public eye, continuing to captain Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and guiding them to two more titles post-retirement in 2021 and 2023. His influence over Indian cricket culture and his fan following continue to grow, proving that his legacy transcends formats and generations.
Indians in ICC Hall of Fame: Legends who shaped Indian cricket
By earning this honour, Dhoni becomes only the 11th Indian cricketer to be included in the prestigious list, which includes names like Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar. His induction celebrates a journey that inspired generations, transformed Indian cricket, and brought home all major ICC trophies in the white-ball format, a feat still unmatched by any other captain in the game.
1. Sunil Gavaskar (2009)
The original batting colossus of Indian cricket, Gavaskar was the first cricketer to score 10,000 Test runs and the first to hit 34 Test centuries, at a time when pace bowling dominated. His technical mastery and mental fortitude made him one of the finest openers ever.
2. Bishan Singh Bedi (2009)
A graceful left-arm spinner and a key member of India’s famed spin quartet, Bedi took 266 Test wickets with guile and flight. Known for his classical style, he also captained India and later mentored many.
3. Kapil Dev (2010)
India’s greatest pace all-rounder and 1983 World Cup-winning captain, Kapil was the first player to take 400 wickets in Test cricket and score 5000+ runs, showcasing his all-round brilliance.
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4. Anil Kumble (2015)
India’s highest wicket-taker in both Tests and ODIs, Kumble is only the second bowler in history to take all 10 wickets in a Test innings. His relentless accuracy and fighting spirit made him a national hero.
5. Rahul Dravid (2018)
Nicknamed The Wall, Dravid was the rock of India’s middle order. He scored over 13,000 Test runs and holds the record for most catches (210) in Test cricket by a non-wicketkeeper.
6. Sachin Tendulkar (2019)
A global icon, Tendulkar is the highest run-scorer in both Tests and ODIs. He is the only player with 100 international centuries and played an astonishing 200 Tests, redefining consistency and class.
7. Vinoo Mankad (2021)
One of India’s earliest great all-rounders, Mankad scored five Test centuries and also took 162 wickets. The term ‘Mankading’ originates from his run-out of a non-striker backing up too far.
8. Diana Edulji (2023)
A pioneer of women’s cricket in India, Edulji captained India and later became a powerful voice for the sport. A left-arm spinner, she also played a major role in administration post-retirement.
9. Virender Sehwag (2023)
The most explosive Indian opener in Tests, Sehwag is the only Indian to score two triple centuries in Test cricket. His fearless style revolutionized Test match batting.
10. Neetu David (2024)
One of India’s most successful women’s spinners, Neetu held the record for best bowling figures (8/53) in a Women’s Test innings for nearly two decades. She was the backbone of India’s bowling attack during the 90s and early 2000s.
11. MS Dhoni (2025)
India’s most successful captain, Dhoni is the only skipper to win all three ICC trophies, T20 World Cup (2007), ODI World Cup (2011), and Champions Trophy (2013). Also revered for his lightning-fast glovework and calm leadership.
Indians in ICC Hall of Fame
| Name | Induction Year | One Special Record |
|---|---|---|
| Sunil Gavaskar | 2009 | First to score 10,000 runs in Tests |
| Bishan Singh Bedi | 2009 | Member of India’s famous spin quartet |
| Kapil Dev | 2010 | First to take 400 Test wickets and score 5000+ runs |
| Anil Kumble | 2015 | Only Indian to take 10 wickets in a Test innings |
| Rahul Dravid | 2018 | Most Test catches by a non-wicketkeeper (210) |
| Sachin Tendulkar | 2019 | Only player with 100 international centuries |
| Vinoo Mankad | 2021 | All-rounder with 5 Test centuries and 162 wickets |
| Diana Edulji | 2023 | Pioneer of Indian women’s cricket and captain |
| Virender Sehwag | 2023 | Only Indian with two Test triple hundreds |
| Neetu David | 2024 | Best bowling figures in a Women’s Test innings (8/53) |
| MS Dhoni | 2025 | Only captain to win all 3 ICC trophies |
