Cricketing world lauds Dhoni

Chennai - Cricketers world over showered praise on India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni for smashing a double-ton on day three of the first Test against Australia here on Sunday.

Dhoni scored an unbeaten 206 to take India to 515/8, to give the hosts a lead of 135 runs with two days left in the match. During his innings, which included 22 boundaries and five massive sixes, he scored at a strike rate of 84.77.

Former England captain Michael Vaughn tweeted: “The coolest man in world cricket MS Dhoni delivers when it most matters… Incredible innings against the Aussies…”

In the process, Dhoni also crossed the 4000-run mark in Test cricket. He also has the highest individual score by an Indian wicketkeeper-batsman when he surpassed Budhi Kunderan’s 192.

Legendary spinner Shane Warne was also impressed by Dhoni’s knock.

“WOW, M S Dhoni is going off here in Chennai, amazing batting,” tweeted Warne, who is part of the commentary team here.

Warne’s contemporary Glenn McGrath, who is heading the MRF Pace Foundation here, posted: “Great innings by MS Dhoni 206*. India in a strong position against the Aussies.”

Former West Indies batsman Darren Ganga said: “Magnificent accomplishment from Dhoni. Proven the critics wrong. Clearly one of India’s finest captains and wicket keeper-batsmen. Brilliant counter attack innings by one of India’s finest captains and wicket keeper-batsmen.”

Praise also came from Dhoni’s teammates.

“What an innings @msdhoni truly inspirational stuff. One of the best innings i have seen,” tweeted Ajinkya Rahane.