As Mahendra Singh Dhoni turns 44, the global cricketing fraternity has united in celebration of a man whose name is synonymous with calm under pressure, masterful finishing, and unmatched leadership. From his iconic helicopter shot to leading India to three ICC trophies, Dhoni’s journey continues to inspire millions.

Among the many tributes pouring in, one came from former South African great AB de Villiers, who shared a personal insight into the challenge of facing Dhoni.

Speaking on JioHotstar’s ‘7 Shades of MS Dhoni’, AB de Villiers said, “It was very difficult to plan for MS Dhoni. When he was on song, nothing worked. Later, we figured out that wide deliveries with seam movement sometimes did the trick in the death overs. But that too, worked only occasionally.”

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With a smile, De Villiers added, “He was intimidating—one of those players against whom few game plans succeeded. I have huge respect for what he achieved in his career. What a fantastic cricketer.”

Dhoni’s career stats speak volumes: 17,266 international runs, 829 dismissals behind the stumps, and 538 matches across formats. He is the only captain to win all three ICC white-ball trophies—T20 World Cup in 2007, ODI World Cup in 2011, and Champions Trophy in 2013.

Upon his induction into the ICC Hall of Fame, MS Dhoni humbly reflected, “It’s a great honour to be part of the ICC Hall of Fame. Being named alongside the legends of the game is something I’ll always treasure.”

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Even post-retirement, Dhoni remains a towering presence in the IPL, having led Chennai Super Kings to five titles. As wishes pour in on his birthday, Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin perhaps put it best—calling Dhoni a “rare OG, who turned pressure into poetry with every move.” Indeed, Dhoni’s legacy remains as timeless as his calm demeanour.