Daijiworld Media Network

New Delhi, Jul 7: Like for many, for Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni (popularly known as 'Mahi') too 7 is a lucky number. Born on July 7, 1981 Dhoni celebrated his 30th birthday on Thursday.

The Jharkand boy who entered the Indian team in an ODI match against Bangladesh in 2004, made his test debut against Sri Lanka in 2005. His attacking batting style and unique hairstyle brought him fame during his initial days of cricket, specially in matches against Pakistan.

He never looked back, climbing the ladder of success step by step, eventually bringing home the glorious World Cup earlier this year.

"Dhoni is a master manager," says an expert, "He knows how to manage things, make the right move at the right time. He never loses his cool...we hardly see him under pressure."

That he is a cool customer was proved in the first Twenty20 World Cup he won for the country.

After the World Cup victory, many have lined up to learn 'management skills' from him, with leading B-schools inviting him to present lectures on management.

At 30, this master manager has brought glory to the game, and become an ideal role model for millions of cricketers worldwide.

Currently leading the Indian squad in the West Indies, Dhoni has already led India to the number 1 position in tests, beating South Africa, Australia and Sri Lanka.

This year, Dhoni also led Chennai Super Kings to an Indian Premier League (IPL) triumph for the second time in a row.

Married to Sakshi, his childhood friend, Dhoni had invited flak from his fans all over India for featuring in an advertisement related to liqour. Since millions of youngsters follow him, experts adviced him not to endorse products related to liquor and smoking.

In 56 tests he has scored 2,948 runs at an average of 38.28, with four test hundreds (highest 148 against Pakistan). Dhoni has 6,049 runs from 186 ODIs, with seven centuries. His highest is 183 not out, which is also the fifth highest ODI score.