MS Dhoni turns 43: Here's how Thala earns crores even after retirement from International Cricket

Today, we celebrate the birthday of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the former captain of the Indian cricket team, who turns 43. Born on July 7, 1981, in Ranchi, Dhoni’s journey from a young football enthusiast to a cricketing legend is nothing short of inspiring. Known as "Mahi," he transformed the game with his exceptional wicket-keeping skills and calm leadership. The legendary cricketer, led Team India to numerous victories including the 2007 ICC World Twenty20, the 2011 Cricket World Cup, and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy.?

Dhoni announced his retirement from international cricket on August 15, 2020, but he continued to be actively involved in the IPL. Even after retiring from international cricket Dhoni’s star continues to shine brightly, not just on the field but off it too. Let’s take a closer look at how this cricketing icon continues to earn in crores and remains a beloved figure in the world of sports and beyond.

Salman Khan celebrates MS Dhoni's birthday

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan celebrated his friend and cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni's 43rd birthday. He joined Dhoni's midnight celebrations and shared a heartfelt birthday message on social media.

?In a video posted on X, Salman is seen with Mahendra Singh Dhoni and his wife Sakshi as Dhoni cuts the cake. Dhoni then feeds Salman some cake.

Early Life and Cricket Career

As a child, Dhoni had a keen interest in football. His goalkeeping skills caught the eye of his coach, who suggested he try wicket-keeping in cricket. This decision changed his life, as Dhoni's exceptional wicket-keeping skills and calm demeanour soon won over cricket fans worldwide.

MS Dhoni's Continued Popularity

Even though MS Dhoni retired from international cricket, his popularity remains as strong as ever. He is considered one of the wealthiest cricketers globally and continues to play in the IPL. Last season, Dhoni scored 161 runs in 14 matches. Let's explore how MS Dhoni earns millions beyond cricket.

MS Dhoni Net Worth: How He Earns Millions

MS Dhoni

MS Dhoni's net worth is estimated at Rs 1040 crore (127 million USD) as of 2024. His significant earnings come from brand endorsements and his IPL career with Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Despite retiring from international cricket in August 2020, Dhoni remains one of the richest cricketers in the world. His brand continues to grow, partly due to his co-ownership in various franchises such as Chennaiyin FC (football), Ranchi Rays (hockey), and Mahi Racing Team India.

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MS Dhoni's Salary

MS Dhoni's annual salary is around Rs 50 crore, which equates to approximately Rs 4 crore per month. His primary income source post-retirement is the Indian Premier League, where he represents Chennai Super Kings. Dhoni, who has led CSK to four IPL titles, is the highest-earning player in the league's history, with IPL earnings of around Rs 188.8 crore by 2024.

MS Dhoni's Brand Endorsements

MS Dhoni has been the brand ambassador for numerous companies, including Aircel, Pepsi, Orient PSPO, Spartan Sports, Reebok, Boost, Amity University, Gulf Oil, Amrapali Group, Ashok Leyland, McDowell’s Soda, Big Bazaar, Exide Batteries, TVS Motors, Sony Bravia, and Sonata Watches. Additionally, he endorses Dabur Chyawanprash, Lays, Lafarge, and Max Mobile. Other brands he promotes include Oreo, Dream 11, Lava, Spartan Sports, Gulf Oil India, Reebok, Exide, Unacademy, Orient, Aircel, Sonata, India Cements, Winzo, WardWiz, Mastercard India, and Sumadhura.

MS Dhoni's Car & Bike Collections

MS Dhoni's Car Collections

MS Dhoni is known for his love of cars and bikes. His impressive collection of luxury vehicles includes high-end cars like the Hummer H2, Audi Q7, Land Rover, Ferrari 599 GTO, Nissan Jonga, Mercedes Benz GLE, and Rolls Royce Silver Shadow. His bike collection features the Kawasaki Ninja H2, Harley Davidson Fat Boy, Ducati 1098, and Yamaha RD 350.

The Inspiring Journey of MS Dhoni

MS Dhoni's journey in sports is one of the most inspiring stories. He started as a ticket collector at a railway station and became India's most successful cricket captain. Dhoni led India to victories in the ICC T20 World Cup 2007, ICC Cricket World Cup 2011, and ICC Champions Trophy 2013. He made his international debut in 2004 and quickly became known for his powerful hitting. Over time, he became a skilled finisher, known for his strategic play and calm demeanor.

Dhoni's T20I Career

Dhoni, also called "Thala" (leader) by Chennai Super Kings fans, played 98 T20Is for India. He scored 1,617 runs with an average of 37.60 and a strike rate of 126.13, including two half-centuries and a top score of 56.

Dhoni's Test Career

In Test cricket, Dhoni played 90 matches, scoring 4,876 runs at an average of 38.09. He hit six centuries and 33 half-centuries, with his highest score being 224. He ranks as the 14th-highest scorer for India in Tests.

Dhoni as Captain

As a captain, Dhoni led India in 60 Test matches, winning 27, losing 18, and drawing 15, with a win percentage of 45.00. He guided India to the number one spot in the ICC Test Rankings and is the only Indian captain to whitewash Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, achieving this in the 2010-11 and 2012-13 series.

Happy Birthday Thala!