MS Dhoni: Age & Date of Birth
Mahendra Singh Dhoni, widely recognized as MS Dhoni, is a name that resonates profoundly within the cricketing world. Known for his calm demeanor, sharp cricketing acumen, and unparalleled leadership skills, Dhoni has carved a niche for himself as one of the most celebrated cricketers in history. This article delves deep into MS Dhoni’s age, date of birth, biography, family background, and net worth, painting a comprehensive portrait of the man behind the legend.
- Age: 43 Years
- Date of Birth: July 7, 1981
- Birth Place: Ranchi, India
- Weight: 75 kg
- Height: 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm)
- Net Worth: $111 million
Early Life and Date of Birth
MS Dhoni was born on July 7, 1981, in Ranchi, then part of Bihar and now in Jharkhand, India. As of 2024, Dhoni is 43 years old. His zodiac sign is Cancer, which perhaps explains his intuitive and nurturing nature, both on and off the cricket field.
Dhoni’s early life was rooted in simplicity. Born into a middle-class Rajput family, Dhoni’s journey to becoming an international cricketing icon was far from conventional. His father, Pan Singh, worked as a junior management employee in MECON, a public sector company, while his mother, Devaki Devi, managed the household. MS Dhoni has two siblings, Jayanti Gupta, his elder sister, and Narendra Singh Dhoni, his elder brother.
Education and Early Interests
Dhoni’s schooling took place at DAV Jawahar Vidya Mandir, Shyamali, Ranchi. Though an average student academically, Dhoni exhibited exceptional skills in sports. Initially inclined towards football and badminton, he played as a goalkeeper for his school’s football team. However, his life took a turn when his coach encouraged him to try his hand at cricket. Dhoni’s natural aptitude for wicketkeeping quickly became apparent, and his journey toward cricketing greatness began.
Rise to Stardom in Cricket
Domestic Career
Dhoni’s cricketing career began with domestic cricket, where he represented Bihar in the Ranji Trophy during the 1999-2000 season. His breakthrough came in the 2003-04 season when he represented the India A team during a tour to Kenya. His explosive batting performances and remarkable wicketkeeping skills caught the attention of the national selectors.
International Debut
MS Dhoni made his One Day International (ODI) debut for India on December 23, 2004, against Bangladesh in Chittagong. While his debut match didn’t go as planned—he was run out for a duck—Dhoni’s talent was undeniable. His maiden century came in 2005 against Pakistan, where he scored a blistering 148 off 123 balls, solidifying his place in the Indian team.
Captaincy and Achievements
Dhoni’s leadership journey began in 2007 when he was appointed captain of the Indian T20 team for the inaugural ICC T20 World Cup. Under his captaincy, India won the championship, marking the beginning of a golden era for Indian cricket. He later took over as the ODI and Test captain, leading India to numerous victories, including:
- ICC Cricket World Cup 2011: Dhoni’s iconic six in the final against Sri Lanka remains etched in the memories of cricket fans.
- ICC Champions Trophy 2013: Dhoni became the only captain to win all three major ICC trophies.
- Test Cricket Milestones: India reached the No. 1 ranking in Test cricket under his leadership.
Dhoni’s ability to remain composed under pressure earned him the nickname “Captain Cool.” He retired from Test cricket in 2014 and stepped down as captain of the limited-overs formats in 2017, passing the baton to Virat Kohli. However, he continued to play as a vital member of the team until his international retirement on August 15, 2020.
Family Life
MS Dhoni married Sakshi Singh Rawat on July 4, 2010, in a private ceremony attended by close friends and family. Sakshi, a childhood acquaintance and schoolmate, is often seen supporting Dhoni during matches and public appearances. The couple has a daughter, Ziva Dhoni, born on February 6, 2015. Ziva often accompanies her father to cricketing events and has become a social media sensation.
Dhoni’s family plays a crucial role in his life, providing unwavering support throughout his journey. Despite his celebrity status, Dhoni is known for his grounded nature and deep connection with his family and hometown.
Hobbies and Interests
Off the field, MS Dhoni has a diverse range of interests. He is an avid motorbike enthusiast and owns an impressive collection of bikes, including vintage and high-end models. Dhoni also has a passion for farming and has invested in organic farming ventures in his hometown. Additionally, he is a co-owner of several sports teams across different leagues, such as the Chennaiyin FC in the Indian Super League and the Ranchi Rays in the Hockey India League.
Net Worth and Endorsements
As of 2024, MS Dhoni’s estimated net worth is $125 million (approximately ₹1,000 crores). This wealth is a result of his cricketing career, endorsements, and business ventures. Here is a breakdown of his financial portfolio:
Cricketing Career Earnings
Dhoni’s earnings from playing cricket include his salaries from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and his contracts with the Indian Premier League (IPL). Representing the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) since the league’s inception, Dhoni has been one of the highest-paid players in the IPL. In 2021, CSK retained Dhoni for a whopping ₹12 crore.
Endorsements
Dhoni’s charisma and popularity make him a sought-after brand ambassador. Over the years, he has endorsed numerous brands, including:
- Pepsi
- Reebok
- TVS Motors
- Sony Bravia
- Colgate
- Gulf Oil
- Indigo Paints
- Dream11
Business Ventures
Dhoni has also ventured into entrepreneurship, investing in several businesses. He owns a stake in the lifestyle brand SEVEN, which specializes in sportswear. Furthermore, he has partnered with sports tech companies and is involved in various real estate projects.
Assets and Properties
Dhoni’s luxurious lifestyle is evident in his properties and assets. He owns a lavish farmhouse in Ranchi, equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, including a private gym, swimming pool, and a spacious garage for his bikes and cars. Dhoni’s car collection includes a Ferrari 599 GTO, Hummer H2, and several other luxury vehicles.
Legacy and Philanthropy
MS Dhoni’s impact on cricket extends beyond his records and achievements. He has inspired millions with his humility, work ethic, and resilience. As a mentor, Dhoni continues to shape the next generation of cricketers, particularly in the IPL, where he serves as a guiding figure for CSK.
Dhoni is also deeply committed to philanthropy. Through his foundation, he supports various causes, including child education, healthcare, and disaster relief efforts. His efforts to uplift underprivileged communities underscore his dedication to giving back to society.
Conclusion
MS Dhoni’s journey from a small-town boy to an international cricketing icon is a testament to his talent, hard work, and determination. At 43 years of age, Dhoni remains a revered figure in the world of sports, continuing to inspire fans and players alike. His legacy, both as a cricketer and a human being, is etched in history, making him a true legend of the game.
