5 MS Dhoni epics that silenced his critics

44* (58) v Australia, Adelaide, 2012

Remembered for the sheer audacity with which Dhoni pulled off a last over victory for India, this ODI was part of the Commonwealth Bank Series, following India’s disastrous 0-4 loss in the Tests. Under tremendous pressure, India salvaged some pride chasing down 270 with just 2 balls to spare.

However, at 239 for 5 India looked shaky after Gambhir’s gritty 92 put them on track. Things looked bad for Dhoni as India floundered in the chase and the run-rate rose steeply. At one point Dhoni was on 13 off 31 balls. However, he managed to keep India in the hunt till the last over when India needed 13 off the last 6 balls.

Then, in typical Dhoni fashion, he carted a six off Clint McKay over long-on, a colossal six remembered for clearing the massive Adelaide Oval boundary with ease. Dhoni turned hero from a villain within a span of a few overs, not unexpected given how many times he has had to deal with that.