Dhoni to receive Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, India's one-day and Twenty20 captain, has been chosen for the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award, the country's highest honour for a sportsperson. He is the second cricketer after Sachin Tendulkar to receive the award. Dhoni led India to victory in the World Twenty20 in South Africa last year and the tri-series in Australia in 2008.

"We are very happy. He has represented the country with distinction, and deserves the honour," Sharad Pawar, the BCCI president, said. "His exemplary leadership and demeanour under pressure, especially in the Twenty20 World Cup and the tri-series in Australia, has made him an ideal role model for millions of young Indians who want to make a mark in life."

BCCI chief administrative officer Ratnakar Shetty said what impressed him most about Dhoni was the way he conducted himself. "What I like most about him, apart from his cricket, is the way he leads," Shetty said. "He is a cool customer and never gets agitated. He displays clarity of thought and speaks his mind even if it may not be seen in the right sense."

An official announcement would follow after August 20.