Xtra Time Web Desk: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to retire MS Dhoni’s iconic No. 7 jersey as a tribute to the former captain’s significant contribution to Indian cricket. According to a report in Indian Express, the Indian cricket board has informed national team players, especially debutants, that they are not allowed to choose numbers associated with these cricket legends. This move follows a similar honour given to Sachin Tendulkar, whose No. 10 jersey was retired in 2017.
Team India medium pacer Shardul Thakur was trolled after he chose to wear jersey No 10. The board intervened in that instance and Shardul decided to wear jersey No 54.
Upcoming star Yashasvi Jaiswal, who wished to wear No. 19 during his India debut, had to opt for No 64 as No 19 was already designated to cricketer-turned-commentator Dinesh Karthik. The significance of jersey numbers extends to the junior level, as seen with Shubman Gill, who couldn’t acquire his preferred No. 7 during his U-19 days and settled for No. 77, a number he wears in the senior team.
Retiring jersey numbers is a sporting tradition, observed globally. The biggest example is Italian Serie E club Napoli deciding to retire jersey No. 10 in honour of legendary Diego Maradona. Chicago Bulls retired jersey No. 23 after Michael Jordan’s illustrious career. The gesture symbolizes a mark of tribute to the great players and their contribution to the sport. The BCCI’s decision to retire Dhoni’s No. 7 reflects a similar sentiment, acknowledging his lasting impact on Indian cricket.