Updated On: 07 July, 2025 06:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
While the montage did not include Dhoni himself, the symbolism was unmistakable. Across sporting arenas, the number 7 is synonymous with excellence and big-match temperament, traits Dhoni embodied throughout his glittering career

MS Dhoni (Pic: AFP)
The official Instagram account of the FIFA World Cup joined millions in celebrating MS Dhoni’s 44th birthday on Monday, posting a tribute that bridged both cricket and football.
The post featured three global football icons, Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham, and Son Heung-min, each clad in their national team colours, proudly bearing the number 7 on their backs. Captioned simply, ‘Happy Thala day’, the post saluted the enduring mystique of the No.7 jersey and its profound connection to Dhoni.
Fifa World Cup Instagram Handle post for MS DHONI's Birthday ?? pic.twitter.com/2GqalR2KFW