Dhoni sports 'Balidaan': MS dons PARA Special Forces insignia in show of respect for Indian Army during IND vs SA match
MS Dhoni was spotted sporting the regimental dagger insignia of the Indian Para Special Forces on his gloves.
MS Dhoni’s love and respect for the Indian Army is well known. During the India vs South Africa match, Dhoni was spotted sporting the regimental dagger insignia of the Indian Para Special Forces on his gloves.
India played their first match of the ICC World Cup 2019 against South Africa on Wednesday. During the game, many noticed Dhoni wearing the gloves with the regimental dagger insignia. Dhoni, who is an honorary lieutenant colonel, was bestowed with that honour in 2011.
Pictures of MS Dhoni's gesture of love and respect towards the Indian Army went viral. Many users on social media noticed his gloves and hailed him for his gesture.
During the match, MS Dhoni was busy behind the wickets. He was seen giving advice to the bowlers and helping them set the field. He also effected a stumping during the innings. Dhoni then played an important part in India's chase with bat too. (Image: AFP)
The insignia sported by MS Dhoni on his gloves is called the 'Balidaan' badge or patch. Personnel who serve in the Para Special Forces are allowed to wear the "Balidaan" (Sacrifice) patch.
This is not the first time MS Dhoni has been seen wearing the 'Balidaan' insignia. He was seen wearing a cap with same logo with during IPL. His mobile cover also has the logo.
MS Dhoni has said it many times that he wanted to join the Indian Army. Due to his achievements as a cricketer, Dhoni was given a honoury commission as a Lt Colonel in the territorial army. He was commissioned into the 106 Para TA batallion. While the commission was honorary, Dhoni underwent the para basic course in Agra and had completed para jumps, earning his parachute wings as well.
Earlier this year, Dhoni and the Indian team wore army caps during the ODI match against Australia at Ranchi as a tribute to the CRPF personnel who lost their lives in the February 14 Pulwama terror attack.