[Watch] When MS Dhoni Made History With Double Century Vs Australia

image-lszruhc5MS Dhoni during 2013 test series[x.com]

In an unforgettable display of skill and determination, MS Dhoni set a new benchmark for Indian cricket on February 24, 2013, by becoming the first Indian wicketkeeper-batter to score a double hundred in a Test match. 

Facing Australia at Chennai's MA Chidambaram Stadium, Dhoni's spectacular innings not only enthralled fans but also laid the foundation for India's dominance in the series.

During the first Test against Australia, India found itself in a precarious situation at 196/4. However, Dhoni, walking in after the dismissal of Virat Kohli, who had scored an impressive 107, took control of the game but it was Dhoni's solo performance that captured the spotlight.

He reached his double century in just 231 balls, showcasing an aggressive yet composed style of play. His innings included 24 fours and 6 sixes, culminating in a personal score of 224 off 265 balls. 

This not only broke the record for the highest Test score by an Indian captain, previously held by Sachin Tendulkar (217 against New Zealand in 1999) but also highlighted Dhoni's exceptional talent in the longest format of the game.


Watch: Dhoni's Historic Double Century here

India replied to Australia's first innings total of 380 with a mammoth score of 572, thanks to Dhoni's monumental effort. The Indian bowlers, led by Ravichandran Ashwin's five-wicket haul, then bundled out Australia for 241 in their second innings, setting up a comfortable victory for India by eight wickets.

Dhoni's historic innings set a new precedent for Indian wicketkeepers and captains alike. Before Dhoni, the record for the highest score by an Indian wicketkeeper in Tests was held by Budhi Kunderan, who scored 192 against England in 1964. 

Rishabh Pant's unbeaten 159 against Australia in Sydney during the 2018-19 tour is another notable achievement, but Dhoni's double hundred remains unparalleled.