MS Dhoni's Controversial Past: The Incident Of Elbowing Mustafizur Rahman And The Hefty Fine

In cricket history, MS Dhoni, with a staggering net worth of Rs. 1,030 crores, is celebrated as 'Captain Cool' for his unflappable demeanour on the field. Yet, there have been moments when even this cricketing legend has unveiled his fiery side. One such episode unfolded during the initial ODI of a three-match clash pitting India against Bangladesh in 2015.

Mustafizur Rahman’s ODI Game Against India

Bangladesh, renowned for their resilience in home conditions, posted a formidable total of 307 runs in their innings. The pitch, not particularly batsman-friendly, posed a substantial challenge for the Indian side. Mustafizur Rahman, Bangladesh's budding pacer, made his debut in this very contest.

It was this series that propelled Mustafizur Rahman onto the international stage. However, his debut wasn't without controversy. During India's run chase, Rahman obstructed the path of the current Indian skipper, Rohit Sharma, who was aiming to complete a run. Sharma's irritation at Rahman's actions was palpable.

MS Dhoni, once an emblem of composure, strode into batting after India lost their fourth wicket in the form of Ajinkya Rahane, with Mustafizur Rahman claiming two of those four wickets. While Dhoni was at the crease, Rahman once again attempted to impede his progress. 

MS Dhoni, the former captain, responded by elbowing the young bowler, sending him sprawling to the ground.

Result of the Incident

The incident did not escape the scrutiny of match referee Andy Pycroft, who, alongside umpires Rod Tucker and Enamul Haque Moni, convened a meeting with Dhoni, Ravi Shastri (Team India Director), and Biswarup Dey (Team India Director). Fortunately for MS Dhoni, his untarnished disciplinary record spared him from more severe sanctions. The incident was categorised as a Level-2 offence, resulting in a fine of 75% of Dhoni's match fee.

Bangladesh ultimately triumphed in the match, prevailing by a margin of 79 runs. Mustafizur Rahman was named the Man of the Match for his five-wicket haul.

This incident was not the sole instance of Dhoni's temper flaring. During IPL 2019, Dhoni marched onto the field to confront umpires in a Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings match in Jaipur.

Mustafizur Rahman, the star of the series, was crowned the Man of the Series. His stellar performance included claiming 13 wickets in three matches at an economy rate of 5.11, highlighted by a couple of five-wicket hauls.

The hosts clinched the three-match ODI series 2-1, securing victories in the first two ODIs. Dhoni, while contributing 121 runs to the series at an average of 40.33, emerged as the fourth-highest run-scorer.

FAQs
Why is MS Dhoni known as 'Captain Cool'?
MS Dhoni is known as 'Captain Cool' due to his calm and composed demeanour on the cricket field.
How did the match officials respond to the incident between MS Dhoni and Mustafizur Rahman?
Match referee Andy Pycroft, along with umpires Rod Tucker and Enamul Haque Moni, convened a meeting with MS Dhoni, Ravi Shastri, and Biswarup Dey. Dhoni was fined 75% of his match fee for the incident.
Who won the Man of the Match award in the game between India and Bangladesh in 2015?
Mustafizur Rahman was awarded the Man of the Match for his performance, which included taking five wickets.
How did Mustafizur Rahman perform in the entire series against India in 2015?
Mustafizur Rahman was exceptional throughout the series, winning the Man of the Series award. He was the highest wicket-taker, claiming 13 wickets in three matches.
What was the outcome of the three-match ODI series between India and Bangladesh in 2015?
Bangladesh won the three-match ODI series against India by a margin of 2-1.
How did MS Dhoni perform in the series against Bangladesh in 2015?
MS Dhoni scored 121 runs in the series at an average of 40.33 and was the fourth-highest run-scorer.