Cheteshwar Pujara, arguably India's most reliable Test batsman in recent times, has his all-time Indian Test XI in a chat with Sports Tak. In a lineup replete with legendary names, Pujara took some surprising decisions, most prominently by opting for MS Dhoni over the swashbuckling Rishabh Pant as the wicket-keeper and by not including iconic former captain Sourav Ganguly at all. At 37, the Saurashtra veteran explained that while picking between Pant and Dhoni was a tough call, he felt Dhoni’s leadership, calmness, and glovework gave him the edge.

"I had to pick between MS Dhoni and Rishabh Pant, and though Pant is developing nicely, the legacy of Dhoni stands above all. He's the captain of this team," said Pujara. While being asked why he did not mention himself, Pujara modestly acknowledged that he feels Rahul Dravid should get the No. 3 position. "He's clearly the better player," said Pujara, putting the current head coach of India above his own Test contribution.

Cheteshwar Pujara picks his All Time India Test XI: (Sports Tak).

- Gavaskar, Sehwag, Dravid, Sachin, Virat Kohli, Laxman, MS Dhoni, Kapil Dev, Kumble, Ashwin, Bumrah. pic.twitter.com/zgPil9G641

— Tanuj (@ImTanujSingh) May 23, 2025

Also read: ENG vs ZIM: Who is Ben Curran representing Zimbabwe in one off against England?

An All-time Great XI with Balance & Experience

Pujara's dream XI features the ideal opener, combining hard-hitting Virender Sehwag with technically explosive Sunil Gavaskar, a perfect right-hand-left-hand opener's combination. No. 3 is Rahul Dravid to provide a bit of grit and a lot of reliability, and then Sachin Tendulkar's genius comes in at No. 4. At No. 5 and No. 6, Pujara has gone with Pujara also picks Virat Kohli with VVS Laxman; they are two of India's match-winners, and more importantly, both seem as if they were born to make big innings and attack bowls as if they practiced explosions at fire-time.

Pujara has chosen MS Dhoni to keep as well as captain. The strike force is an extraordinary package of pacers and spinners. Kapil Dev will give old-school swing and balance of an all-rounder; Jasprit Bumrah raw pace and accuracy; and lastly, utilizing his spin twin's Anil Kumble and Ravichandran Ashwin makes southern success a certainty.

This dream XI endorses the wonderful heritage of Indian cricket, bringing together legends from different fronts and eras into a fantasy Test XI of extreme diversity, wont, and iconic success.

In cricket, it is not only in runs or wickets; it is all woven into the output of the game itself. When a cricketer has their name on a stand or pavilion at the stadium, it is indisputably one of the biggest accolades. It is beyond statistics, representing a legacy that has inspired innumerable people! From 2025, there are three legends of Indian cricket in the modern era, as well as the IPL, who have been immortalized in this way: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and MS Dhoni, with a section of the stadiums having their names proudly posted.

These players have been not just larger than life; they have rewritten the record books and established the modern era of Indian cricket. Nothing has been more valuable than their captaincy, spectacular epoch-defining performances, and passionate following that are akin to iconic figures that have reached stardom. So, let's delve into these legends.

1. Rohit Sharma

• Stand Name: Rohit Sharma Stand
• Stadium: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
• Year: 2025

Rohit Sharma, the most successful IPL captain, winning 5 titles with the Mumbai Indians, was honored with a stand at the Wankhede Stadium in 2025. As a cornerstone of Indian cricket and an important figure in past and present Mumbai cricket, Rohit's name being permanently at Wankhede Stadium signifies his unbelievable contributions to the game. The presentation became even more memorable when Rohit invited his family to the stage, adding to the emotion and sense of pride at the ceremony.

2. Virat Kohli

• Pavilion Name: Virat Kohli Pavilion
• Stadium: Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi
• Year: 2019

Virat Kohli, Delhi’s cricketing pride and a legend of Royal Challengers Bangalore, was honored with a pavilion in his name by the DDCA in 2019. Known for his fiery passion, unmatched consistency, and leadership, Kohli’s pavilion stands as a reminder of his deep roots and global influence. It was one of the earliest such tributes for an active player, showing the scale of admiration he commands.

3. MS Dhoni

• Stand Name: MS Dhoni Pavilion Stand
• Stadium: JSCA International Stadium, Ranchi
• Year: 2017

The captain cool of Indian cricket, MS Dhoni, was honored with a stand named after him at the JSCA Stadium in Ranchi. His journey from a small-town cricketer to India’s most successful captain is now permanently celebrated in his hometown. With a massive fan base and an unmatched legacy in IPL with Chennai Super Kings, Dhoni’s name on the stadium is a well-deserved tribute.

An Honor Beyond Numbers

These honors are more than passing displays; they represent the camaraderie that exists between the community of players and supporters alike and the acknowledgement of the players' contributions that extend beyond the arena. Each of these iconic players has made their mark on the sport and has shaped generations with their determination, sportsmanship, and, of course, desired winning performances. 

As Indian cricket moves into an exciting new chapter in 2025, these galleries are still presenting the cricket stories of Rohit, Kohli, and Dhoni—the stories of commitment, tenacity, and dedication. For every young cricketer who enters these halls and looks up to see these names, it should be a reminder of what goes into becoming a legend.

The Wankhede Stadium of Mumbai has recorded innumerable instances of cricketing history. But what rings bells is the fact that it is also an important venue for three of India’s greatest cricketers — MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli. Coincidentally, each of them, with legends, played their last home Test at the same ground, meaning it was a departure worth remembering.

MS Dhoni – 2013 vs West Indies

 MS Dhoni played his final home Test in November of 2013, against the West Indies, while the public focus was on Sachin Tendulkar’s farewell. While Sachin was obviously the main man, MS Dhoni’s quiet departure meant his was very much in line with his humble and low-key yet selfless style of character. Dhoni led the way in the match, with India winning comfortably. The Wankhede inconspicuously bids farewell to one of India’s most formidable Test captains at home.

Rohit Sharma—2024 vs New Zealand

Rohit Sharma, the sun of Mumbai's cricketing skies, played his last home Test match at Wankhede in early 2024 against New Zealand. It was a full circle moment for Rohit because he also made his international debut in the same city, Mumbai. There was an incredible ambiance in the stadium as the crowd cheered his name as he walked out to bat for the last time at home in front of his fans. He was a picture of grace, calm, and contentment as he came back to the crease to bat his final innings at home, which was full of nostalgia and pride.

Virat Kohli—2024 vs New Zealand

Virat Kohli, the man who wore his fire, passion, and match-winning capability on his sleeve, also concluded his home Test career at Wankhede in 2024, when the atmosphere was electric. He and the fans all understood that they were witnessing the end of a golden era. The fans understood that they were bearing witness to an emotional moment. Kohli departed from the field with great emotions, following a guard of honor and a deafening ovation from thousands of fans, for whom he could only be referred to as the King.

Also read: Most successful Test captain ft. Virat Kohli

Wankhede—A Ground of Forever Goodbyes

It's beautiful the way three various legends with distinct personalities and styles of play finished their home Test careers at the same ground. Wankhede has now transcended the status of a cricket ground — it's an emotion lane of tears, memories, and last respects to greatness.

For the fans, these are not merely retirements — they are reminders of how these legends defined Indian cricket. And for Wankhede, it is not merely a cricket stadium, but a testament to the last cheers for icons who sacrificed everything for the nation.

In the long history of Indian cricket, few captains have left an imprint as deep and permanent as Kohli's. With 40 Test wins from 68 matches and a win percentage of 58.82%, Kohli is India's most successful Test captain. But it wasn't just the numbers; it was the passion and ferocity and spirit he brought to the 5-day game that stamped Kohli's legacy.
From leading fierce contests abroad as captain (and particularly in Australia) to holding fort at home, Kohli built an army and made India a smash in red-ball cricket. His novel ways of captaincy needn't be changed any more than the perspective and decisiveness of a five-bowler attack. Because Kohli ran himself, and therefore India, every match as if they were playing to win instead of competing. Whatever he projected on the field was noticeable; he was so high and so devoted to the battle, his teammates had no choice but to raise their own game, no matter where they were playing or who they were playing against (England, Australia, India, etc.) or on what surface (inky black dirt, light green and nicely cut, lovely flat grass in Chennai before huge crowds).

The calm leader is MS Dhoni, who led India to 27 victories in 60 Tests with a win percentage of 45.00%. MS Dhoni brought many things to Indian cricket, structure and consistency among them, to achieve the ultimate goal of becoming number one in the ICC Test rankings. Prior to MS Dhoni, Sourav Ganguly had a great influence on the mindset of Indian cricket. Ganguly had 21 wins in 49 Tests, and he made the Indian team believe that they could win 'anywhere,' which prepared them for the future.

#ViratKohli : 🇮🇳's most successful test captain 🫡#CricketWithCKK #testcricket pic.twitter.com/HfI3x3Gaz8

— Cricket Ki Kahani (@CricketKK_) May 12, 2025

Also read: Shubman Gill’s touching tribute to Virat Kohli on Test retirement

A Legacy Fueled by Fire and Conviction

While Ganguly laid the groundwork and Dhoni provided stability and authority, Kohli was fire and fight. His intense and aggressive approach to leadership changed the approach of India to Test cricket. Every Test match became a statement Test match during Kohli's time, and the notable wins in 2021 at Lord's or winning in Australia in 2018-19 were carried out with the fire of Kohli's vision at the forefront.

Kohli's time was about making the whites proud. He brought Test cricket back into the mind of a new generation of fans and players. Kohli's legacy will not be based on numbers, but on the fire he brought back for Test cricket in the country and the world.

Legendary Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni spoke on his retirement plans after CSK's thrilling two-wicket victory over the Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens in IPL 2025. This was only CSK's third win of the season - one of their historically worst campaigns - and gave their fans one last moment of joy and perhaps hope for one more season with Dhoni on the pitch.

While they are standing at the bottom of the points table, this game still meant something, as 43-year-old Dhoni was at his calm best, scoring 17 runs not out off 18 balls, finishing the team’s chase of 180 - CSK's best chase since 2019. After the match, Dhoni addressed the mounting speculation surrounding his future in cricket; although he did not confirm his retirement plans, he said that returning in 2026 is still a possibility.

"That's the love and affection I have gotten throughout. I'm 43 and play only two months a year. After this IPL, I need to work 6–8 months to see if my body is able to cope again. Nothing to decide right now, but the support I get everywhere is just amazing," Dhoni said at the post-match presentation.

Thala speaks. 🗣️ 🦁
We whistle. 🫡🥳#KKRvCSK #WhistlePodu 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/2FQqeyjFL3

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) May 7, 2025

Also read: Dewald Brevis: "I Aspire to Be Like MS Dhoni, Leading My Team to Victory"

"We Want Answers for the Next Year": Dhoni on CSK's Direction

CSK were bolstered by a team effort in Kolkata, with Noor Ahmad's four-wicket haul limiting KKR to 179, while Dewald Brevis (52 off 25), Shivam Dube (45), and Dhoni's calming influence made for a successful chase. The win didn't change the fact that Chennai are no longer in contention for the playoffs but dented KKR's title defense and restored pride back to the Yellow Army.

When looking back at the season, Dhoni felt the team needed to make some assessments strategically. "There were quite a few things that did not go our way. We need to be practical. We need to assess the players for next season - who is going where, who is able to cope with pressure, and who is aware of the game?" he said. It seemed clear from Dhoni's comments that a rebuilding approach was around for CSK. It was not about technique with Dhoni but mentality and the ability to adapt.

CSK fans are now left to ponder what is next, especially with Dhoni still remaining an active player and a chance that they could witness a goodbye at Chepauk in the home game coming up. However, with Dhoni's words, there is a glimmer of hope that the end to one of the game’s most loved careers is not set in stone just yet.

In a moment that again exemplified MS Dhoni's humility and sportsmanship, the former captain of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) demonstrated why he is admired beyond his cricketing brilliance. In Dhoni, you also get a player who also possesses grace in his non-playing days after sport. After CSK's thrilling victory over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Match 57 of IPL 2025, it was Dhoni's simple gesture that was the moment for many backers of CSK.

As the match ended, and as players from both camps began exchanging handshakes as is custom, most supporters, as well as broadcasters, took their eyes off the match. However, one moment stood out from the rest -- young KKR paceman Chetan Sakariya had been inadvertently forgotten about regarding the customary handshakes after the match. While most were on their way to the dressing room, Dhoni recognized that Sakariya had been left out and was quick to act.

Dhoni was seen pointing to the CSK support staff and players and gesturing to them that one player was left. "One player is left," he reportedly uttered to the CSK Kambhoj, whilst urging the rest to wait so Sakariya could also be recognized. As the young man approached, Dhoni shook Sakariya's hand personally - a small gesture, but one that encapsulated the quality of the legendary cricketer.

Here's the deleted clip 👇🏻https://t.co/peYdDO7jAh

— . (@Devx_07) May 8, 2025

Also read: Top 3 young skipper to score 500 plus runs in single edition of IPL

An Instance Beyond the Game

This little act became symbolic of what Dhoni represents - respect, awareness, and inclusion. At 43, having already given up the captaincy duties and perhaps now in his final season of IPL, Dhoni has continued to shape the game and those involved with it in ways that go far beyond bat and ball. Immediately social media picked up the moment, and fans started praising the CSK legend for having this deep respect offered with such a humble heart.

For Chetan Sakariya, this small show of support from one of the world's most respected cricketers is sure to be a memory that will last a lifetime. And for the millions of viewers that watched, it is yet another reason to remember why MS Dhoni is not only a great champion on the field - he is a great man off the field.

Yo Yo Honey Singh had the crowd in Kolkata buzzing with excitement during the final stop of the ‘Millionaire Tour.’ While the night was filled with iconic beats, the Indian rapper paused between songs to talk about a personal passion—cricket. Speaking to the audience, Singh opened up about two cricketing legends who have deeply inspired him, turning the concert into a heartfelt celebration of music and sports. It was a moment that connected with many, as the words resonated with those who have cherished memories of the same heroes.

Follow for more: https://www.cricketwinner.com/

Singh began by sharing a deep admiration for Sachin Tendulkar, who has always been an ultimate idol in cricket. “Mai sabse tagda fan agar cricket mai hua hu, toh woh Tendulkar Sir ka hua hu,” the rapper said with a warm smile, meaning the strongest fan in cricket has been of Tendulkar Sir. The nostalgia was palpable as the crowd cheered, many recalling their own moments of watching the ‘Master Blaster’ dominate the field. It was evident that Singh’s connection to Tendulkar ran deep, reflecting the emotions of countless fans who grew up idolizing the cricketing legend.

Samandar hai woh, Samandar 🔥🔥

Lifetime settlement elevation.
pic.twitter.com/xkgLPtuDor

— ` (@WorshipDhoni) April 10, 2025

Also read: Watch: Travis Head turns actor in a super fun new Ad

IPL has seen a number of high-profile, controversial send-offs of its well-known players, ones that led to major debates. Memorable moments consist of Harbhajan Singh slapping down Sreesanth, MS Dhoni getting into a shouting match, and Virat Kohli yelling at the crowd....

Follow for more: https://www.cricketwinner.com/

5 of the most controversial send-offs in IPL history

Virat Kohli vs. Gautam Gambhir (2013 & 2023)

• Incident: Kohli and Gambhir had heated exchanges on the field, showcasing the competitive spirit and tensions between players.
• Impact: These confrontations emphasized the fierce rivalries in the league.

MS Dhoni's Pitch Invasion (2019)

• Incident: Dhoni’s on-field tantrum punctuated the unwelcoming atmosphere, where managers and owners were expecting a star player to storm onto the pitch to accost the referees over a bad call in a match.
• Impact: His actions ignited national conversations about player empowerment and respect for officials.

Also read:KKR vs SRH: Match 15 Weather and Pitch Report – IPL 2025

 Harbhajan Singh vs. Sreesanth (2008)

• Incident: After a match, Harbhajan slapped Sreesanth, leading to a significant suspension for Harbhajan.
• Impact: This incident highlighted the intense emotions in the IPL and raised questions about player conduct.

Kieron Pollard vs. Mitchell Starc (2014)

• Incident: During an IPL 2014 clash between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore, tensions escalated when Pollard backed away mid-delivery, but Starc still bowled the ball aggressively toward him, prompting Pollard to almost throw his bat in retaliation.
• Impact: This altercation, one of the most heated in IPL history, sparked major debates on sportsmanship and the limits of aggression in the game.

Also read: IPL 2025: Updated points table after LSG vs PBKS clash

Sourav Ganguly vs. Shane Warne (2008)

• Incident: During an IPL 2008 match between Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders, Ganguly questioned a catch taken by Graeme Smith, prompting the umpire to refer it. With inconclusive replays, Ganguly was given the benefit of the doubt, leading to Warne openly criticizing him in the post-match press conference.

• Impact: This controversy ignited debates on the spirit of the game, with Ganguly and Warne exchanging heated words, showcasing their long-standing rivalry even in the IPL.

Super Kings or Super Struggles?

CSK is one of the most accomplished franchises in the IPL cricket history. However, many teams have risen up to the occasion to defeat them several times over the years. Let us analyze these teams and the way they have been able to trouble CSK.

The CSK Cauldron How Success Spreads Rumors and ResentmentsThe 20 wins of Mumbai Indians (MI) is the talk of partiality and the "Mumbai bias" in the IPL. Success brings envy and gossip about a level playing field and how they do it. Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Punjab Kings (PBKS), the two "almost-winners" of IPL, will also fight each other to see if they even get a chance to win games or suffer from a "choke issue". Do they have mental blocks? Are they strategically constrained? RCB and DC have winning streaks within non-winning gaps and moments of glory and we debate if they have the sustained potential to trouble CSK. 

Also Read:-Jofra Archer’s Historic Maiden Over in IPL 2025

KKR's woes bring out cries of strategy and psychological block against the "Yellow Army". The newbies Gujarat Titans (GT) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are here to disrupt the status quo and ongoing discussions about the shift of power in the league. The very short lives of the erstwhile teams Deccan Chargers (DCH), Pune Warriors India (PWI), Kochi Tuskers Kerala (KTK) and the "what ifs" are a surround of nostalgia and imaginaries might-have-beens. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) along with the rest of the unsuccessful teams provokes thoughts about mismatch of strategies. But again, how does CSK win every year with different combinations. The "numbers" of these teams are not just numbers;

IPL Teams vs. Chennai Super Kings: Head-to-Head Statistics

In one of the most exciting matches of IPL 2025, CSK faced off against RR at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium. Adding spice to the encounter, veteran Ashwin made a comeback and delivered a remarkable off-side wide that produced an electrifying moment in the stadium.

Ashwin’s Deceptive Delivery Traps Rana

During RR’s innings, Ashwin bluffed an off-side wide, which lured Nitish Rana to try to send it to the roof. The flighted delivery deceived the batsman and turned with a vengeance, leaving Rana stranded.

R. Ashwin got his man Nitish Rana 81(36)

One of the worse match with ball for Ash 4-46-1#IPL2025 #csk #Dhoni pic.twitter.com/NmjPq6AKV3

— Arv (@Arv922137579481) March 30, 2025

Also read:MI vs KKR : Match 12 Weather and Pitch report IPL 2025

MS Dhoni’s Lightning Stumping

As always, Dhoni, with his marvelous glove work, got rid of the bails before Rana had the opportunity to recover. The legendary keeper showed once again why he is considered to be one of the best in the game.

This instance turned out to be a watershed moment for CSK, shifting the momentum as RR collapsed and could not recover from the setback. With Ashwin’s brilliance and Dhoni’s insane reflexes, CSK sustained their dominance over the match.