Remembering MS Dhoni’s Historic 183-Run Knock Against Sri Lanka

On October 31, 2005, MS Dhoni delivered one of the most iconic performances in ODI cricket history at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. During the third ODI against Sri Lanka, the then 24-year-old wicketkeeper-batter scored an unbeaten 183 runs, helping India successfully chase a target of 299 runs.

Match Context and Promotion

Sri Lanka batted first and posted 298/4, led by Kumar Sangakkara’s unbeaten 138. Chasing 299, India lost Sachin Tendulkar early in the first over. In a strategic move, captain Rahul Dravid and coach Greg Chappell promoted Dhoni to bat at number three, a decision that proved pivotal.

A Record-Breaking Performance

Dhoni dominated the Sri Lankan bowling attack, including spin legend Muttiah Muralitharan. His 145-ball innings featured 15 fours and 10 sixes. Key records established during this match include:

• Highest ODI score by a wicketkeeper: Dhoni surpassed Adam Gilchrist’s 172-run record.
• Most sixes by an Indian in an ODI inning: At the time, his 10 sixes set a new benchmark for Indian batters.

India secured victory in 46.1 overs, finishing at 303/4 with 23 balls to spare. This innings marked a turning point in Dhoni's career, establishing him as a prominent force in international cricket before his future tenure as a highly successful captain. Match details can be verified through official BCCI archives and historical cricket scorecards.