'MS Dhoni pavilion,' South stand of JSCA Cricket Stadium in Ranchi to be named after former Indian captain

JSCA Stadium in Ranchi to have a stand named after MS Dhoni   |  Photo Credit: AP

Mahendra Singh Dhoni has over the years been a true icon in Indian cricket. One of the most successful captains to have played the game, Dhoni has done more than most for the sport and put his state Jharkhand's name in the world cricket map. The Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) Stadium in Ranchi will now have a stand named after city's very own son. The south stand at the JSCA Stadium will now be known as 'MS Dhoni pavilion' and a placard has already been installed in the stadium. 

Dhoni, who made his international debut in December 2004 against Bangladesh, did not have a smooth journey to the summit of world cricket. Battling a number of obstacles on the way, he fought his way to the top and created his legacy in Indian colours. The Ranchi lad is one of the most successful cricketers in the world today and has come a long way from being a small-town struggler to become a national icon. 

After earning a name for himself with his exploits with the bat in domestic cricket, Dhoni made his international debut for India and announced himself to the world with his brute power-hitting and sensational batting skills. However, his biggest moment came when he led India to ICC World T20 title in 2007 and established his credentials as a leader. 

He was subsequently named the captain of the Indian team across formats and led the country to its second World Cup crown in 2011, bringing an end to a 28-year-long wait. He also led India to no.1 rankings in Tests and won the Asia Cup followed by Champions Trophy in 2013 to become the first ever captain overall to win all major ICC trophies. 

Till date, the former Indian captain remains the only skipper to have lifted all major ICC trophies. To honour his incredible service to the game, the Jharkhand Cricket Association has decided to name a stand after him in Ranchi's only international cricket stadium. An official announcement has not been made yet but is expected to be announced when India play Australia in the 3rd ODI of the upcoming five-match series at the venue on March 08.

Dhoni has already been honoured by the State’s highest civilian order - Jharkhand Ratna and has also been conferred with the Padma Bhushan - India's third-highest civilian award. He played 90 Test matches for India before retiring from the longest format of the game in 2014. However, he continues to be a guiding force in the ODIs and 3 T20Is for the current Indian team and has already played a staggering 338 matches in the 50-over format. 

He has 4876 runs, 10415 runs and 1548 runs in Tests, ODIs and T20Is respectively. Dhoni also remains one of the best wicket-keepers in the world with his lightning quick reflexes and one of the shrewdest brains in world cricket. He will be India's most experienced player at the 2019 World Cup and will be integral to India's chances of clinching a third title in England and Wales later this year.