‘That was the last day I played for India’ - MS Dhoni reflects on his final stages of his international cricket career

Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni is undoubtedly one of the most loved cricketers on the planet. The 42-year-old has been revered as one of the greatest leaders ever for the Indian team, and under his leadership, the Men in Blue went on to win many major titles.

Recently, during a promotional event for the RIGI, the former skipper was asked about the final stages of his international career, to which Dhoni replied that the World Cup 2019 semi-final was the last day he played cricket for India in his mind.

MS Dhoni talking about his final day of International career.

- A sad day in indian cricket history.....!!!!pic.twitter.com/QqaRCsYzIO

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) October 26, 2023

“When you lose a close game, (World Cup 2019 semi-final), the planning has already been done inside. That was the last time I played cricket for India. I retired a year later but the fact was that day, I retired. Everytime, I went to the trainer, I gave the machine back to him. I told him to keep it but never got to tell him at that point that there is no need as I won't be using it because I did not want to announce at that point of time,” Dhoni said during the event. 

“You are high on emotion, and the only thing that you have done in the last 12-15 years is playing cricket and then, there is no more chance of you representing your country. Irrespective of which sport you play, when you go out to play, you represent your country,” he further stated.

MS Dhoni expected to feature in IPL 2024

Despite retiring from international cricket, former Indian skipper MS Dhoni is quite active in franchise cricket, especially in the IPL. The 42-year-old competed in the 16th edition of the tournament, leading Chennai Super Kings. 

Under his guidance, the side managed to win their fifth IPL title in brilliant fashion. As the tournament ended, many speculated what the future held for Dhoni, and the skipper did drop some hints that he will most likely be featuring in the IPL 2024 as well.