Hyderabad: Five days after former Indian cricket team captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni retired from the international cricket, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today addressed a letter to him recounting the memorable moments of 'Captain Cool'.
Terming Dhoni 'one of the greatest cricketing captain', the PM thanked him for his contribution to the Indian cricket and lauded his calm demeanour, rise to the national scene and decision-making abilities.
"130 crore Indians were disappointed but also eternally grateful for all that you have done for Indian cricket in the last decade-and-a-half," the letter read.
PM Modi's letter (Page 1) Dhoni's unforgettable finishing in the 2011 World cup and the 2007 T-20 World cup finals also found a mention in the PM's letter.
"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 wrote.
PM Modi's letter (Page 2) Modi also dubbed Dhoni as the representative of new-age India - the generation that does not lose their nerve in decisive situations, make their own names and their own destinies.
Recounting the veteran wicket-keeper batsman's humble rise to the stardom, the PM wrote, "Your rise and conduct thereafter give strength and inspiration to crores of youngsters who like you have not been to cushy schools or colleges, neither do they belong to illustrious families but they have the talent to distinguish themselves at the highest levels."
Dhoni's induction into the Indian Army in 2011 as a Lieutenant Colonel was also appreciated by the PM in the letter.
Also read:MS Dhoni announces retirement from international cricket
PM concluded by extending regards to Sakshi, Ziva Dhoni, wife and daughter of MS Dhoni respectively and said without their support and sacrifice the 'phenomenon' wouldn't be.
Reacting to the letter, Dhoni took to twitter thanking the PM and said, "an artist, soldier and sportsperson crave for appreciation for their sacrifice and hard work."
The wicket-keeper-batsman on August 145 announced the retirement from international cricket through a video on Instagram, with its caption reading: “Thanks a lot for your love and support throughout. From 1929 hrs consider me as Retired."
