MS Dhoni reveals winning 2011 ODI World Cup isn’t the only happy memory of Wankhede Stadium for him

The former India cricketer has several fond memories at this venue where he became only the second captain after legendary Kapil Dev to lift the ODI Cricket World Cup.

It was the Indian captain – who hit the winning shot here on April 2, 2011 – in the run chase and ended the wait of 28 years for India. Dhoni smashed a maximum to finish it for India in style on that historic night in Mumbai.

The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) earlier this week announced the naming of some seats at the Wankhede Stadium after Dhoni, to immortalise the famous World Cup final six. Ahead of match number 12 of IPL 2023 between MI and CSK, MCA has unveiled the signboard on those seats.

The fans visiting the iconic venue, from now on will get a chance to take selfies of those seats. The 41-year-old Jharkhand cricketer was felicitated by MCA on the eve of the match between MI and CSK.

After winning the toss, Dhoni was asked by commentator Ravi Shastri about the memories of that memorable captain’s knock of the 2011 WC. The legendary cricketer went on to say that winning the WC isn’t the only happy memory for him of Wankhede.

“Think one of the most memorable venues (for me). Not only the 2011 win but when we won in 2007 when we came back the reception we got was great,” said Dhoni – who won the 2007 T20 World Cup in South Africa by leading a young Indian team.

Coming to the match between MI and CSK, Dhoni also spoke about his team’s decision and the playing eleven for the highly-anticipated contest.

“We will bowl first. Generally (this pitch) has got pace and bounce, (where) you can play your shots. We have a few injury concerns, (Ben) Stokes has an injury, and Mo (Moeen Ali) is not available. Ajinkya (Rahane) and (Dwaine) Pretorius are playing. These are the two changes we have made,” Dhoni said at toss.