‘Don’t have a haircut’ – Parvez Musharraf’s advice for MS Dhoni after the latter’s knock against Pakistan in 2006

Back in 2006 when he was only in his second year of international cricket, MS Dhoni was known as a fearless batsman. It’s only with time that he became more circumspect, especially after being made the skipper of Team India across formats. However, around one and half-decade ago, he preferred to attack the bowlers right from the outset, hardly allowing them to settle into a rhythm.

On February 13, he played a knock of similar characteristic at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore after which he conjured praises from former Pakistan president Parvez Musharraf. The latter was a big fan of Dhoni’s hairdo and he had even asked the then youngster to not change it.

Musharraf’s advice for MS Dhoni

“I saw a placard which said ‘Dhoni have a haircut’. If you want to take my opinion, you look good in this haircut. Don’t have a haircut,” Musharraf was quoted as saying. Dhoni sported long hair during the first half of his career after which he cut his hair short.

As far as the game in Lahore is concerned, Dhoni became the Player of the Match after his unbeaten 46-ball knock of 72. His inning was laced with 13 fours and he played at a strike rate of 156.52. Yuvraj Singh lent him support with an 87-ball 79* with 10 fours and helped India chase down 290 with 14 balls to spare.

On July 7, 2021, the man from Ranchi celebrated his 40th birthday and on the auspicious occasion, he was showered with wishes. Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina, who shares a near-unbreakable bond with Dhoni, lauded the veteran on his birthday.

Raina took to Twitter and wrote, “Wishing you a very happy birthday @msdhoni. You have been a friend, brother & a mentor to me, all one could ever ask for. May God bless you with good health & long life! Thank you for being an iconic player & a great leader.#HappyBirthdayDhoni.”

Interestingly, Raina retired from international cricket moments after Dhoni bid adieu to Team India through an Instagram post. Dhoni last donned the national jersey in the 2019 World Cup semi-final against New Zealand at the Old Trafford in Manchester.