Dhoni finishes off in style: The iconic phrase immortalized in the voice of Ravi Shastri
Published on: Feb 17, 2023 4:08 pm IST|Updated on: Feb 17, 2023 4:08 pm IST
Dhoni finishes off in style: One of the most iconic moments in Indian cricket history is the final of the 2011 Cricket World Cup. India had made it to the final after a long wait of 28 years, and the whole nation was rooting for their team to lift the trophy. The match was played at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, and India faced off against Sri Lanka. India won the toss and elected to field first.
Sri Lanka got off to a good start, with their openers Tillakaratne Dilshan and Upul Tharanga putting up a partnership of 62 runs. But Indian bowlers made a comeback and restricted Sri Lanka to a total of 274 runs in their 50 overs.
India’s chase got off to a rocky start, with Virender Sehwag getting out for a duck. Sachin Tendulkar, playing in what would be his last World Cup, was out for 18. But Gautam Gambhir and Virat Kohli steadied the innings with a partnership of 83 runs. Dhoni promoted himself up the order and played a crucial knock of 91 runs, putting India within striking distance of the target.
‘Dhoni finishes off in style,’ The phrase made iconic by Ravi Shastri
India needed four runs off 11 balls, and Dhoni was on strike. Sri Lankan pacer Nuwan Kulasekara bowled a length delivery outside off, and Dhoni launched it over long-on for a six. The ball sailed into the stands, and the whole stadium erupted in joy. Ravi Shastri, who was commentating for the match, immortalized the moment with his famous line: “Dhoniiiiiiiiiii……….finishes off in style…..a magnificent strike into the crowd…..India lift the world cup after 28 years…the party starts in the dressing room…and its the Indian Captain who has been absolutely magnificent in the night of the final”.
The moment was not just about the shot or the win, but it was also about Dhoni’s character and leadership. He had taken a big risk by promoting himself up the order, but it paid off in the end. Dhoni was not known for playing big shots or hitting sixes, but he had the confidence and the ability to step up in big moments.
It was a fitting end to a tournament that saw Dhoni lead his team with conviction and confidence. He had made some bold decisions throughout the tournament, and they had all paid off. He had led from the front and had set an example for his team to follow. Dhoni had proven that he was not just a great captain but also a great batsman.
The shot that Dhoni played was not just a stroke of luck or a moment of brilliance; it was a reflection of his character and his approach to the game. Dhoni had always been a calm and composed player, and he showed it in the most critical moment of the match. He read the situation well, backed his instincts, and executed the shot with precision.
India won the World Cup in 2011 after 28 long years
The shot also encapsulated the spirit of Indian cricket. The game is not just about technique and skill; it’s also about passion, emotions, and the ability to handle pressure. Dhoni had all these qualities in abundance, and he showed them all in that one shot.
The line “Dhoni finishes off in style” has become an iconic phrase in Indian cricket. It has been used countless times to describe Dhoni’s heroics on the field. It has become synonymous with the man himself, and it’s a testament to his greatness as a cricketer and a leader.
Dhoni’s legacy in Indian cricket is secure, and his contribution to the game will always be remembered. He has inspired a whole generation of cricketers and has shown them what it takes to be a champion. His unconventional approach to the game has changed the way people look at cricket, and his leadership has set a new standard for captains around the world.