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MS Dhoni steps down as India's limited overs captain

by Manuj Sharma Wednesday 4 January 2017

MS Dhoni is India's most successful captain in the limited overs format

©REUTERS MEDIA EXPRESS

Indian limited overs captain MS Dhoni has announced his decision to step down from the role ahead of the One-Day International series against England.

Dhoni first made a name for itself when he led India to the World T20 title in the inaugural edition in 2007 and from there on he went on to become the most successful captain for the country in the limited overs format.

Out of the 199 One-Day Internationals he captained, India have registered victories in 110 matches including the most famous victory in the final of the 2011 World Cup.

The 35-year-old also led India to ICC Champions Trophy triumph in 2013 making him the first captain to have won the three major limited over trophies.

Chief Executive of Board of Control for Cricket in India Rahul Johri lauded Dhoni for his contribution to the Indian team.

"On the behalf of every Indian cricket fan and the BCCI, I would like to thank MS Dhoni for his outstanding contribution as the captain of the Indian team across all formats.

"Under his leadership, the Indian team has touched new heights and his achievements will remain etched forever in the annals of Indian cricket."

Even though the board has not announced any replacement, it is understood that Virat Kohli will take over the reins after successfully leading the team in the Test format.

Dhoni, who retired from the Test format in 2014 will be available as a wicket-keeper batsman for the upcoming ODI and T20I series against England which kicks-off on 15th January.