Prime Minister Narendra Modi has paid tribute to the former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who retired from international cricket on India’s Independence Day on August 15.
Modi has not only acknowledged Dhoni’s contribution towards cricket but has also mentioned the impact he has left all around. While everyone likes Dhoni, the PM also hailed Dhoni for his human aspect as well as his bond with his daughter, Ziva.
A section of the letter reads:
“The name MS Dhoni will not be remembered merely for his career statistics or specific match-winning roles. Looking at you just as a sportsman would be injustice. Correct way to assess your impact is as a phenomenon”.
Dhoni also posted the letter on Twitter with the caption: “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 Indian prime minister also lauded Dhoni for his love for the armed forces. After 2019 World Cup, Dhoni even served in the army for a while.
Modi has commended Dhoni for maintaining a work-life balance as well as keeping a cool and calm demeanour.
The letter also shed light on the fact that someone from a small town — like Dhoni from Ranchi — went on to achieve such remarkable feats for the country.
With national service no longer in picture, PM Modi hoped that the iconic cricketer would now get to spend a lot more time with his family back home in Ranchi. The cricketer, however, will now be seen donning the Chennai Super Kings jersey in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 season that begins on September 19.
