Mahendra Singh Dhoni on Monday had less burden on his head, having trimmed his trademark flowing locks.

But for his innumerable fans back home, he had a reassuring message -- the long hair would be back before he returns to India.

Why did he shorten his hair?

"In this heat, it serves a practical purpose, but there is no reason for my fans to lose heart. It would be back to its normal length by the time I am back in India."