Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni’s extraordinary dedication and unwavering commitment played a crucial role in leading the team to victory in the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL). Despite a heavily strapped left knee in a cast, Dhoni did not miss a single game and persevered through the pain. However, he has since undergone surgery in Mumbai and is currently in the rehabilitation phase.
CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan praised Dhoni’s exceptional commitment to the team, emphasizing that they never had to ask him if he wanted to sit out due to his injury. Dhoni’s leadership qualities are widely acknowledged, and his determination to play through the discomfort is admired by all.
“We never asked him things like ‘do you want to play or do you want to sit out.’ If he can’t, he would’ve told us straightaway,” Kasi Viswanathan told ESPNcricinfo. “We knew it was a struggle for him to play, but his commitment to the team, his leadership, and how the team benefits – everyone knows. From that perspective, you have to appreciate him.”
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Viswanathan also revealed that Dhoni never complained about his knee during the tournament, despite the visible struggles while running. Only after the final, Dhoni informed the team that he would undergo surgery. Following the successful surgery, he is now focused on recovery.
During the post-final presentation, Dhoni expressed his belief that retiring after winning the title would be the ideal time. However, he vowed to return for at least one more season if his body allows. This decision is seen as a gift to his fans, even if it means enduring another nine months of intense training.
Viswanathan confirmed that Dhoni plans to rest for three weeks before beginning his rehabilitation. Dhoni himself will decide on his future plans and inform CSK owner N Srinivasan. Since 2008, Dhoni has maintained direct communication with the team’s management.
The CSK CEO expressed trust in Dhoni’s ability to keep them informed and appreciated his straightforwardness.
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“Actually, he told us immediately after the final is over he’ll fly to Mumbai, have surgery, and go back to Ranchi for rehab,” CSK CEO said. “He knows what to do, how to go about it, so we aren’t going to ask him ‘what are you going to do, how’ etc. He will inform us on his own. Whatever he’s doing, he’ll call first and inform only Mr. N Srinivasan, not anyone else. Factually, he’ll be straightforward with him. From him, we’ll get the information that this is what he’s doing. It’s been this way since 2008. That’s how it will continue.”
MS Dhoni’s determination, leadership, and professionalism continue to earn him immense respect and admiration within the cricketing community.
