Mahendra Singh Dhoni Retires From Tests: Sachin Tendulkar Leads Tributes

Mahendra Singh Dhoni's decision to retire from Tests on Tuesday set the cricketing fraternity abuzz with Sachin Tendulkar leading the tributes for the India captain. Dhoni made the announcement after helping India to a draw against Australia in the third Test at the MCG on Tuesday. (In pics: MS Dhoni's life highlights)

Tendulkar, who had retired from international cricket in 2013 after the home series against the West Indies took to Twitter and congratulated Dhoni on a Test career spanning 90 matches - he was captain in 60 of them. "Well done on a wonderful career in test cricket @msdhoni. Always enjoyed playing together. Next target 2015 WC my friend!!"

well done on a wonderful career in test cricket @msdhoni. Always enjoyed playing together. Next target 2015 WC my friend!!

- sachin tendulkar (@sachin_rt) December 30, 2014

Tendulkar also told NDTV that while Dhoni has many achievements in Tests, leading India to the No. 1 ranking would be the biggest. "He has several achievements both in front and behind the stumps but leading India as the No.1 test side would be the highlight of his test career. Wishing him the very best for the defence of the World Cup in 2015," he said.

Suresh Raina, Dhoni's close friend and ally in the limited overs sides for India and Chennai Super Kings, lauded his "valiant captain", while Vinay Kumar tweeted to say Dhoni would be missed in the Test side.

Congrats Dhoni bhai on your wonderful journey of test cricket.. You will be surely missed ????

- Vinay Kumar R (@Vinay_Kumar_R) December 30, 2014

Valiant while you led. Valiant in your departure. #Respect @msdhoni pic.twitter.com/w6xdnebG3s

- Suresh Raina (@ImRaina) December 30, 2014

Dhoni retired as India's most successful Test captain, with 27 wins. He had led the team in 30 Tests at home, winning 21 but managed only six wins from another 30 Tests overseas. There was intense criticism over his tactics in the longest format of the game away from India. Dhoni's form with the bat had dipped as well and his last half-century was a fighting 82 against England at the Oval in August this year. Even as emotional tributes poured in from former and current teammates, veteran India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar said he wasn't surprised by Dhoni's decision, but added he could have played for three more years. (In pics: Dhoni, the 'Superman' of a skipper)

There were reactions also from former Sri Lankan and Pakistani cricketers. Russell Arnond, former Lankan batsman said he was surprised but backed Dhoni's decision to retire.

Well done @msdhoni on a wonderful career in test cricket. pic.twitter.com/oQ9Sf3HAEi

- Saqlain Mushtaq (@Saqlain_Mushtaq) December 30, 2014

Other reactions:

BCCI: BCCI while respecting the decision of M S Dhoni to retire from Test Cricket, wishes to thank him for his enormous contribution to Test Cricket and the laurels that he has brought to India.

(With inputs from Anurag Dwary)