Summary Unbeaten double century, scored at a strike rate of 84.77, includes 22 fours and five massive sixes.
CHENNAI (Web Desk) - 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 on 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 Vaughan 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.
Another Indian batsman Suresh Raina tweeted, "That was a dominating double! Congratulations @msdhoni Take it to a triple ton mate."
Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan also joined in lauding Dhoni and wondered how the critics of the Indian captain would react now.
"Dhoni 206*..!! Incredible feat ! Where are all those prophets of doom that were writing him off , just yesterday ! Prophets of Doom : bhaisaheb yahan chullu bhar pani kahin milega ? ," wrote Bachchan.
