Former Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS) captain and legendary Indian cricketer MS Dhoni turned 44 years old on July 7, 2025. Among the many well-wishers was Sanjiv Goenka, the owner of RPS and head of the RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group, who extended his greetings to Dhoni, acknowledging his contribution to Indian and franchise cricket.
Sanjiv Goenka's birthday message to Dhoni was brief but respectful, highlighting the camaraderie they shared during their time together in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Dhoni led RPS during the 2016 season, the first year of the franchise’s two-season existence when Chennai Super Kings was suspended from the tournament. Although the team did not make it to the playoffs that season, Dhoni's calm leadership style and influence on the squad were evident.
Dhoni’s Impact on RPS
MS Dhoni’s association with RPS was significant despite its short duration. In 2016, he captained a squad filled with stars such as Steve Smith, Ajinkya Rahane, Faf du Plessis, and Ravichandran Ashwin. While RPS finished seventh that season, Dhoni’s ability to manage high-pressure situations and his presence in the dressing room left a lasting impression.
In 2017, the captaincy was handed over to Steve Smith, but Dhoni remained an important member of the squad. That year, the team made it to the IPL final, narrowly missing the title in a thrilling match against Mumbai Indians. Dhoni’s role in guiding the team to the final, even without the captaincy, was praised by both players and management.
Continued Respect and Popularity
Sanjiv Goenka’s birthday message reflects the continued admiration that Dhoni commands in the cricketing world, not just for his achievements on the field but also for his character and leadership qualities. His calm demeanor, ability to stay composed under pressure, and team-first mentality have made him one of the most respected cricketers globally.
Even after retiring from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni continues to play in the IPL, captaining Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and leading them to their fifth title in 2023. His fan base remains as strong as ever, and every public gesture or birthday wish related to Dhoni tends to attract widespread attention online.
Fan Celebrations
As with every year, Dhoni's birthday saw celebrations across India, especially in Chennai, where fans consider him a local hero. Social media was flooded with wishes, photos, videos, and career highlights, further demonstrating the deep connection he shares with cricket lovers in the country.
Conclusion
The birthday wish from Sanjiv Goenka to MS Dhoni may appear simple on the surface but serves as a reminder of Dhoni’s lasting legacy in Indian cricket and the IPL. It highlights how his leadership and professionalism continue to earn him admiration from peers, fans, and team owners alike. As Dhoni turns 44, his influence on the game remains undiminished, inspiring future generations of players.
