India's 2011 World Cup Win: Dhoni's Six at Wankhede
India won the 2011 ODI World Cup at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, beating Sri Lanka by 6 wickets. MS Dhoni finished the match with a six over long-on. Relive India's greatest cricketing triumph.
On 2 April 2011 at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, MS Dhoni walked in to bat at No. 5 with India's chase faltering and delivered what became cricket's most iconic final shot — a six over long-on to seal India's second ODI World Cup title, 28 years after the first in 1983.
The Match
Sri Lanka batted first and posted 274/6, with Mahela Jayawardene scoring a brilliant 103*. India's chase looked difficult after Sachin Tendulkar (18), Virender Sehwag (0), and then Virat Kohli (35) and Yuvraj Singh had set the platform. When Gautam Gambhir (97) fell at 223/3, India still needed 52.
Dhoni's Decision
MS Dhoni controversially promoted himself above in-form Yuvraj Singh — a decision that surprised many. Dhoni entered at No. 5 and proceeded to play one of the great ODI innings. He scored 91* off 79 balls, anchoring the chase with authority before launching the finishing blow.
The Final Six
With India needing 4 to win, Nuwan Kulasekara bowled full to Dhoni. Dhoni swung his bat and deposited the ball over long-on for six. India had won by 6 wickets. Dhoni ran down the pitch with his fist raised. The image became the most shared cricket photograph in history.
Frequently asked questions
Who won the 2011 ODI World Cup?
India won the 2011 ODI World Cup, beating Sri Lanka by 6 wickets at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on 2 April 2011. MS Dhoni finished the match with a six over long-on.
How many did MS Dhoni score in the 2011 World Cup final?
MS Dhoni scored 91 not out off 79 balls, hitting 8 fours and 2 sixes, including the winning six that sealed India's victory.