PM Modi pens letter to MS Dhoni, hails him as illustration of spirit of New India

"Eternally grateful for all that you have done for Indian cricket," the PM wrote

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised Mahehdra Singh Dhoni, who announced his retirement from international cricket last week, hailing him as a “phenomenon” and “one of the greatest captains” of the game.

In a heartfelt letter to Dhoni, the prime minister described the cricketer as the embodiment of a new India where the family name does not make one’s destiny, but they make their own names and their own destinies.

Dhoni shared the letter, dated August 19, on his Twitter page on Thursday, thanking the prime minister for his appreciation and good wishes.

"An Artist,Soldier and Sportsperson what they crave for is appreciation, that their hard work and sacrifice is getting noticed and appreciated by everyone.thanks PM @narendramodi for your appreciation and good wishes," Dhoni wrote.

“Where we come from does not matter as long as we know where we are headed – this is the spirit that you have exuded and inspired many youngsters with,” the prime minister said.

Calling Dhoni one of the greatest captains and one of the best wicketkeepers the game has seen, Modi said, “Your dependability in tough situations and your style of finishing matches, particularly the 2011 World Cup final will forever be etched in the public memory for generations.”

“The correct way to assess your impact is as a phenomenon.”

“Rising from humble beginnings in a small town, you burst onto the national scene, made a name for yourself and most importantly, made India proud,” Modi wrote.

He said Dhoni’s rise and conduct “gives strength and inspiration to crores of youngsters who like you haven't been to cushy schools or colleges, neither do they belong to illustrious families but they have the talent to distinguish themselves at the highest level.”

“No matter what hairstyle you sported, your calm head remained the same in victory or defeat, which is very important for every youth,” he said referring to different haircuts that Dhoni made famous after sporting an eye-catching long mane at the beginning of his career