Watch: Spray Paint Artist Recreates MS Dhoni's 2011 World Cup-Winning Moment

Remember India’s thrilling 2011 ODI World Cup win? The image of MS Dhoni hitting a six, leading team India to victory against Sri Lanka, is still etched in the minds of cricket lovers. Recently, spray paint artist Ben Labuzzetta has brought this historic moment back to life with a striking piece of artwork.

In a video posted to his Instagram, Labuzzetta takes us through the step-by-step creation of his portrait. He began by creating an elevated seven-shaped structure on a blank canvas with modelling paste, paying homage to MS Dhoni’s iconic jersey number. The background was painted in blue and saffron colours of the Indian cricket team’s jersey. Labuzzetta then skillfully added the letters “M” and “S” into this backdrop with spray paint.

The final touch was the spray-painted image of Dhoni’s triumphant pose as he hit the winning shot. The portrait, within the elevated seven shape, contrasts the vivid blue and orange against a dramatic black-and-white depiction of Dhoni. The result is an eye-catching tribute that captures the essence of that unforgettable World Cup moment 13 years ago.

“Thala for a reason. Number 7. MS Dhoni,” the artist wrote as caption.

Commenting on the video, a Dhoni fan wrote, “Thank you so much for making this. I always wished for you to make one for Dhoni.” Another person commented, “MS Dhoni should see this. Thala For a reason.”

An eagle-eyed cricket fan noted, “Bro, everything was perfect but MS played with Reebok bat and not SS in 2011 finals.” In response to this, Ben Labuzzetta mentioned that he made the correction and remarked, “Hey guys sorry about the bat. I’ll fix the sponsor on it. That’s my bad.”

Ben Labuzzetta has listed the d portrait on his website for sale. It is priced at R. 382,500, without the shipping cost. The portrait is made on a 48 by 36 inch canvas. He also has prints for the same painting, priced at Rs 3,900 and Rs 8,100 based on the print’s size.

Back in February this year, MS Dhoni spoke about why stuck to his jersey number seven ever since he started his cricket career.

He explained, “So, I was born on the 7th of July. July is again the seventh month. It was 81(1981) was the year so 8-1 = 7.” MS Dhoni revealed when he was asked about his preferred jersey number, he simply said seven.