Dhoni thanks PM Modi after receiving letter of ‘appreciation’

Former India cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni on Thursday shared with his fans and followers on social media a letter he received from Narendra Modi, in which the prime minister said the ex-captain’s impact on Indian cricket must be assessed as “a phenomenon”.

Dhoni took to Twitter to thank the PM for his “appreciation and good wishes”.

“An Artist,Soldier and Sportsperson what they crave for is appreciation, that their hard work and sacrifice is getting noticed and appreciated by everyone.thanks PM @narendramodi for your appreciation and good wishes,” the former India wicket-keeper batsman tweeted while sharing the lengthy two-page letter on his Twitter account.

The World Cup-winning captain called time on his 16-year career in international cricket on August 15, as he made the announcement on his Instagram account.

Modi, in his letter, highlighted Dhoni’s achievements, being one of the most successful captains in Indian cricket and leading the national team to the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup titles.

Under Dhoni’s leadership, India won the 2013 Champions Trophy, making him the only captain to win all three ICC trophies.

“But, the name Mahendra Singh Dhoni will not be remembered merely for his career statistics or specific match-winning roles. Looking at you as just a sportsperson would be injustice. The correct way to assess your impact is as a phenomenon!” he wrote.

The prime minister noted that the former captain remained calm in victory and defeat, “a very important lesson” for youngsters.

“No matter what hairstyle you sported, your calm head remained the same in victory or defeat, which is a very important lesson for every youth.”

Modi also made special mention of the cricketer’s association with the Indian armed forces. The PM also wished Dhoni the “very best” for his future endeavours, while sending good wishes to his wife Sakshi and daughter Ziva.