Former India captain MS Dhoni has taken a significant step towards securing legal rights to the moniker ‘Captain Cool’ — a nickname that has long been synonymous with his composed demeanour on the cricket field. According to ESPNcricinfo, Dhoni’s trademark application for the phrase has been officially accepted and published by the Trademark Registry of India.
The acceptance, dated June 16, 2025, now opens a 120-day window for any third-party opposition. If no objections are raised during this period, the trademark will be officially granted. The registration covers categories including sports coaching, training, and the provision of sports-related facilities and services.
Dhoni initially applied for the trademark in June 2023, but his application faced a hurdle when it was found that a company — Prabha Skill Sports (OPC) Private Limited — had already registered the same phrase. In response, the 43-year-old cricketer filed a rectification petition, arguing that the company was attempting to exploit his established public identity and the term’s widespread association with him.
“This is a case of bad faith registration on the part of the company, aimed at deceiving the public and unlawfully enriching themselves by trading on the name of a well-known individual,” Dhoni said in his petition.
Following at least four hearings, the Registry sided with Dhoni, clearing the path for the trademark’s acceptance.
Dhoni, who last led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL), took over the captaincy midway through the season after regular skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad was sidelined with injury. However, it turned out to be a forgettable campaign for CSK, who finished at the bottom of the table for the first time in their 16-season history.
Internationally, Dhoni’s legacy remains unmatched. He is the only captain to have won all three major ICC white-ball tournaments: the T20 World Cup in 2007, the ODI World Cup in 2011, and the Champions Trophy in 2013. Renowned for his ability to remain unflustered under pressure, Dhoni led India through some of its most iconic cricketing moments.
Apart from his captaincy, Dhoni redefined the role of a finisher in ODIs. His unbeaten 183 against Sri Lanka in 2005 is still the highest score by a wicketkeeper in the format. With over 10,000 ODI runs at an average of 50.57, his batting credentials are equally legendary.
Behind the stumps, Dhoni was a revolutionary force — known for his lightning-quick reflexes and sharp game awareness. Across formats, he played 538 international matches for India, scoring 17,266 runs and effecting 829 dismissals.
The ‘Captain Cool’ tag has now moved one step closer to being legally his — a fitting tribute to a player who brought calm to chaos and changed the face of Indian cricket.
