The Retirement of MS Dhoni’s No. 7 Jersey: A Tribute to a Legend
In a move to pay tribute to the legendary cricketer MS Dhoni, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to retire his iconic No. 7 jersey. Dhoni, who made his international debut in 2004, has been a stalwart of Indian cricket and has left an indelible mark on the sport. This decision by the BCCI ensures that no other Indian player will have the honor of wearing the No. 7 jersey in the future.
The Significance of No. 7
Dhoni’s association with the number 7 goes beyond superstition or luck. Born on the 7th of July, he chose this number as a reflection of his date of birth. Over the years, he added further significance to the number, such as the year ’81, which adds up to 7 when the digits are summed. While Dhoni isn’t superstitious about the number, it holds a special place in his heart and has become synonymous with his cricketing journey.
Retiring Jersey Numbers in Cricket
Retiring jersey numbers is a tradition commonly seen in other sports like football and basketball. In cricket, however, it is a relatively uncommon practice. The BCCI’s decision to retire Dhoni’s No. 7 jersey follows a similar move made in 2017 when Sachin Tendulkar’s No. 10 jersey was folded away for good. These gestures acknowledge the immense contributions of these cricketing legends and ensure that their iconic numbers are not worn by any other player.
Limiting Choices for Team India Players
The retirement of Dhoni’s No. 7 jersey somewhat limits the choices available for Team India players when it comes to selecting their numbers. The ICC allows players to choose any number between 1 and 100, but in India, the options are more restricted. With around 60 numbers already designated to regular and potential players in the Indian team, debutants have limited options to choose from. This adds an additional layer of significance to the numbers they eventually don on their jerseys.
Instances of Iconic Numbers in Indian Cricket
The scramble for iconic numbers in Indian cricket is not limited to the senior team. Even at the junior level, players aspire to wear numbers associated with their cricketing idols. Rising star Shubman Gill, for example, couldn’t wear his preferred No. 7 jersey during his U-19 days as it was already taken. He settled for No. 77 and continues to wear it even in the senior team. This highlights the deep impact and inspiration that iconic numbers can have on young cricketers.
A Tradition of Retiring Jerseys in Sports
Retiring jerseys is a tradition that transcends cricket and is prevalent in various sports worldwide. In football, for instance, Napoli retired the No. 10 jersey as a tribute to their greatest player, Diego Maradona. The Chicago Bulls retired No. 23 in honor of basketball legend Michael Jordan. These gestures signify that certain players were so exceptional that no one else can truly fill their shoes, and their jersey numbers are forever connected to their legacy.
Fans’ Reactions and Tributes
Fans and players alike have welcomed the retirement of Dhoni’s No. 7 jersey. Social media platforms have been abuzz with calls for the BCCI to honor the legendary cricketer in this manner. Former teammate Dinesh Karthik expressed his support, stating that he did not want to see any other player wearing the No. 7 jersey. Fans have also started trending hashtags like “#RetireJersey7,” emphasizing the emotional connection between the number and the country’s love for Dhoni.
The Legacy of MS Dhoni
Dhoni’s retirement from international cricket in 2020 marked the end of a glittering career that spanned 16 years. Known for his calm demeanor, astute leadership, and remarkable understanding of the game, Dhoni led India to numerous victories, including the inaugural ICC World Twenty20 in 2007 and the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2011. His contributions to Indian cricket have left an indelible mark, making him one of the most revered and respected cricketers in the country.
Continuing with Chennai Super Kings
While Dhoni may have retired from international cricket, he continues to be an integral part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL). As the captain of CSK, he leads the team with the same passion and dedication that made him a legend in international cricket. Fans eagerly await his performances on the field, knowing that he still has plenty of surprises in store for them.
The Future of Iconic Numbers
With Dhoni’s No. 7 jersey retired and Tendulkar’s No. 10 already off the list, the future of iconic numbers in Indian cricket remains uncertain. However, players like Virat Kohli (No. 18) and Rohit Sharma (No. 45) have also gained popularity with their shirt numbers. It wouldn’t be surprising if these numbers gain similar reverence and are retired once Kohli and Sharma decide to hang up their boots.
Conclusion
The retirement of MS Dhoni’s No. 7 jersey is a fitting tribute to a cricketing legend who has made an immeasurable impact on Indian cricket. The BCCI’s decision ensures that Dhoni’s iconic number will forever be associated with his name and legacy. As fans and players continue to celebrate his contributions, the retirement of his jersey serves as a reminder of the extraordinary career he had and the indelible mark he has left on the sport.
