MS Dhoni has taken a big step in securing legal rights to the name that fans and media have used to describe him for years. The former Indian cricket captain’s application to trademark the phrase Captain Cool was officially accepted and published by India’s Trademark Registry on June 16. If no third party objects within 120 days, Dhoni will receive full rights to the phrase.
The trademark was filed under services related to sports coaching, training, and facilities. This fits Dhoni’s image and current role in promoting and leading cricket initiatives after retirement from international play.
In June 2023, Dhoni had first applied for the Captain Cool trademark. However, he was informed by the registry that a company named Prabha Skill Sports (OPC) Private Limited had already registered the name. In response, Dhoni filed a rectification petition, claiming the company had no rightful claim to the name.
In his appeal, Dhoni argued that the company was trying to misuse his identity and public image for profit. “This is a case of bad faith registration,” his legal filing stated. He added that the move could mislead the public and unfairly benefit the company financially.
After at least four hearings, the registry finally accepted Dhoni’s application. This was seen as a major win not just for him, but also for high-profile personalities looking to protect their image in India.
The nickname Captain Cool is closely tied to Dhoni’s calm behavior under pressure. Whether it was leading India to historic wins or finishing tough matches with ease, Dhoni’s composed nature made him a fan favorite. The nickname became a brand in itself—widely used in media, on merchandise, and by cricket fans around the world.
Dhoni last appeared on the field during the 2025 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he once again led Chennai Super Kings. He took over the captaincy mid-season after Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out due to injury. Unfortunately, the season ended on a low note, with Chennai finishing at the bottom of the table for the first time in 16 years.
Despite that recent setback, Dhoni’s cricket legacy remains untouched. He is the only captain in history to win all three ICC white-ball trophies: the T20 World Cup in 2007, the ODI World Cup in 2011, and the Champions Trophy in 2013. His leadership turned young squads into champions and stressful moments into historic wins.
In addition to his leadership, Dhoni was a key player with the bat. His unbeaten 183 against Sri Lanka in 2005 remains the highest individual score by a wicketkeeper in ODIs. Over his career, he scored more than 10,000 runs in ODIs with an average above 50—a rare feat in the sport.
As a wicketkeeper, Dhoni changed the game. His quick hands and sharp reflexes set new standards. In total, he recorded 829 dismissals and played 538 matches for India across all formats, scoring 17,266 runs.
The Captain Cool trademark reflects more than just a name. It’s a symbol of Dhoni’s career, his calm leadership, and his enduring impact on world cricket. With the trademark now accepted, Dhoni moves closer to owning the rights to a phrase that defines his legacy. If the next 120 days pass without any objections, it will become official—adding another chapter to the legacy of one of cricket’s greatest figures.
