Following the conclusion of IPL 2023, the iconic MS Dhoni has expressed his commitment to returning to the Chennai Super Kings for the next season, contingent on his achieving full fitness. However, in a recent interview, the 42-year-old clarified that while his recovery is progressing, it is premature to assess his condition definitively.
MS Dhoni underwent knee surgery post-IPL 2023 and currently faces challenges, particularly while navigating stairs. A video circulating on social media platform X captured the CSK skipper visibly struggling while descending stairs, raising concerns as the Indian Premier League (IPL) looms just four months away.
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MS Dhoni, a vital cog in the CSK machinery, must commence practice sessions soon. Should his knee fail to recuperate in time, the cricketing maestro might be compelled to contemplate retirement.
Brooo Dhoni’s knees aren’t giving me confidence ☠️ Hope he has one more season in him. pic.twitter.com/az62tcfmh9
— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) November 21, 2023
The true extent of his recovery will be unveiled once he resumes net practice, with the anticipation that while batting may not pose significant hurdles, wicketkeeping could present a formidable challenge. Concurrently, there are speculations surrounding Chennai’s potential release of Ben Stokes ahead of IPL 2024.
Acquired in the previous auction, the 32-year-old all-rounder encountered a substantial injury-induced hiatus during the last campaign. Currently, Stokes refrains from bowling and is slated to undergo knee surgery to attain full fitness.
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Considering the substantial financial investment made by Chennai in securing Stokes, the franchise is unwilling to take unnecessary risks. Consequently, there are deliberations about releasing him before the next season and procuring a replacement in the upcoming Dubai auction in December. With franchises mandated to finalize their squads by November 25, forthcoming days are likely to shed light on the unfolding dynamics within the CSK camp and across the broader IPL landscape.
