Former Indian captain MS Dhoni turned 45 today. Cricketers from rival teams and fans sent their birthday wishes to Dhoni on social media, who is considered to be one of the best finishers and captains in the history of cricket. The legendary wicketkeeper-batsman has inspired a generation of cricketers in India and continues to do so even now.

Among the many messages, one birthday wish stood out, which was posted from the official FIFA World Cup 2026 account on Instagram. The post shared a picture of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland, who are leading the scorer of the FIFA World Cup 2022 with seven goals each.

It read, “7 Goals. Thala for a reason. Happy Thala Day.” It was a humorous message wishing Dhoni on his birthday, highlighting his iconic number 7 and also the “Thala” nickname that MS Dhoni has from his CSK fans.

BCCI, Former Teammates and CSK Celebrate MS Dhoni’s Lasting Legacy’

The cricketing fraternity flooded social media with birthday wishes. BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla was among the first to take to X, sharing a picture with the former India captain.

“Heartiest birthday wishes to MS Dhoni, a complete captain and a leader who has inspired a billion hearts. Wish you good health and happiness on this special day and many more memorable days to come,” Shukla wrote in the caption.

Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan also shared a picture from the 2013 Champions Trophy final, which India won under Dhoni’s captaincy.
“Wishing a very happy birthday to my captain, @msdhoni bhai! Your composure and the manner in which you lead will always inspire young cricketers. Wishing you good health and happiness always,” he captioned the post.

Former batsman Aakash Chopra summed it all up in one small caption.

“Some players win matches. Some win trophies. MS Dhoni won an era. Happy Birthday, Maahi.”

The BCCI released a graphic picturing MS Dhoni’s remarkable international career, noting down his 538 matches, 17266 runs, and 829 dismissals as a wicket-keeper besides his historic three ICC titles as captain. Chennai Super Kings, the franchise that made Dhoni a household name across the globe, also released a video message on the occasion.
“A hero who became a way of life. A legacy that lives through generations. #MSDhonivsCSK,” their post read.

A Legacy That Transformed Indian Cricket

MS Dhoni made his debut in 2004 and then became one of the best Indian cricketers of all time. Throughout his 15-year career, he has shown phenomenal leadership skills and calmness under pressure.

MS Dhoni had his best achievements as a captain of the Indian team, leading them to victory in the first-ever ICC T20 World Cup in 2007, winning the ODI World Cup at home in 2011, and claiming the Champions Trophy in 2013. He became the first captain to win all three ICC tournaments.

In 2020, Dhoni announced his retirement from international cricket.

Still, he remains a big name in the Indian Premier League, being the captain of the Chennai Super Kings, winning five IPL titles. His contribution to Indian cricket makes him an iconic figure in the sport, and his fans around the world still enjoy watching him play and admire his skills as a cricketer and a captain, also known as “Captain Cool.”