Dhoni Turns 30: What's Team India's Gift?

The most successful captain of the Indian cricket team, which is currently on the Caribbean tour playing its last Test against West Indies, Mahendra Singh Dhoni turned 30 on Thursday. Is Team India preparing for a big birthday gift for Mahi?

The person, who was a ticket collector in Indian Railways in Ranchi 10 years ago, has now become a trophy collector for India. Dhoni led the Indian team to its 'Golden Age' with taking it to first position in Test cricket and in ODIs on second place.

Known for his long hairdo and unique shots, the wicket-keeper batsman was always in headlines. Among his many fans comes Pakistan's former President Pervez Musharraf who had asked MSD personally to not to cut his hair.

Apart from gaining popularity for his hairstyle and batting style, the Indian skipper also proved as a true leader. When the responsibility of leading a young squad was given to him during the ICC World Twenty20 in 2007, he not only improved the performance of the team, but also defeated arch rival Pakistan in an exciting final to bring the World Cup (T20) home.

Dhoni, known as Mahi, became a living deity for Indian cricket fans after winning the ICC World Cup this year.

Captain of 1983 World Cup winning team, Kapil Dev, before the World Cup had said, Dhoni is the greatest captain India has ever seen. I strongly believe in Dhoni.

Former coach of Indian team, Gary Kirsten, who retired after the World Cup, describes Dhoni: Dhoni does not give you an impression that he is tired. We actually felt he might get tired after a rigorous World Cup campaign, but we are amazed.

Presently, Dhoni is leading the Indian squad in West Indies. With the start of the third Test, just a day ahead of Mahi's birthday, the team India will be looking forward to win the 3-Test series and give its pied piper the best birthday gift.