The wicket-keeper has made the decision shortly before the One Day International (ODI) series against England, which begins in 10 days time.

However, Dhoni will make himself available for selection for the three-match series and the following Twenty20 (T20) internationals, a format he has also stood down as captain.

A replacement has yet to be confirmed, but it widely expected Test skipper Virat Kohli will be given the job.

The 35-year-old assumed the role in September 2007 and has led his country to the 2007 ICC World T20, 2011 ICC World Cup and 2013 ICC Champions Trophy titles.

"The Indian team has touched new heights and his achievements will remain etched forever in the annals of Indian cricket," said Rahul Johri, chief executive of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

Over the course of his spell as captain, Dhoni has led his country in 199 ODIs and 72 Twenty20 internationals.

Dhoni is the most successful captain in all three forms of the game in Indian history and initially took control of the T20 team for the first ICC World T20 which was held in South Africa in 2007.

India went on to win the tournament securing a comfortable five-wicket victory over Pakistan in the final in Johannesburg.

Dhoni then led his country to further success in the 2011 ICC World Cup final on home soil.

The tournament was shared among India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh but it was in Mumbai where India claimed victory.

The captain scored 91 not out off 79 balls, including an emphatic six to win the game, as India claimed a six-wicket win against Sri Lanka in the final.

Further glory ensued under Dhoni's leadership as India scored a dramatic five-run victory over England in the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy final at Edgbaston, before finishing runners-up to Sri Lanka in the 2014 ICC World T20 in Bangladesh.

Dhoni has also captained his country in 60 Test matches between 2008 and 2014 and currently holds the overall record for the most international matches as captain with 331.

"Congratulations to MSD (MS Dhoni) on a wonderful career as captain leading India to success in both T20 and ODI World Cups," Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar tweeted.

"Have seen him emerge from an aggressive player to a steady and decisive captain.

"It is a day to celebrate his successful captaincy and respect his decision.

"Wish MSD the very best as he continues entertaining us on the field with his exploits."