Cricketing world lauds Mahendra Singh Dhoni

Chennai: Cricketers world over showered praise on India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni for smashing a double-ton on day three of the first Test against Australia here Sunday.

Dhoni scored an unbeaten 206 to take India to 515/8, to give the hosts a lead of 135 runs with two days left in the match. During his innings, which included 22 boundaries and five massive sixes, he scored at a strike rate of 84.77. Former England captain Michael Vaughn tweeted: "The coolest man in world cricket MS Dhoni delivers when it most matters... Incredible innings against the Aussies..." In the process, Dhoni also crossed the 4000-run mark in Test cricket. He also has the highest individual score by an Indian wicketkeeper-batsman when he surpassed Budhi Kunderan`s 192. Legendary spinner Shane Warne was also impressed by Dhoni`s knock. "WOW, M S Dhoni is going off here in Chennai, amazing batting," tweeted Warne, who is part of the commentary team here. Warne`s contemporary Glenn McGrath, who is heading the MRF Pace Foundation here, posted: "Great innings by MS Dhoni 206*. India in a strong position against the Aussies." Former West Indies batsman Darren Ganga said: "Magnificent accomplishment from Dhoni. Proven the critics wrong. Clearly one of India`s finest captains and wicket keeper-batsmen. Brilliant counter attack innings by one of India`s finest captains and wicket keeper-batsmen." Praise also came from Dhoni`s teammates. "What an innings @msdhoni truly inspirational stuff. One of the best innings i have seen," tweeted Ajinkya Rahane. IANS