In the upcoming 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, Mahendra Singh Dhoni will once again lead the defending champions, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), igniting anticipation among fans and pundits alike. Dhoni, affectionately known as ‘Captain Cool’, recently returned to the familiar grounds of Chepauk Stadium in Chennai to commence preparations for the forthcoming campaign.
Despite concerns surrounding his fitness and availability following surgery in Mumbai last year, the 42-year-old stalwart has successfully recuperated, signalling his readiness to lead his beloved team once more. The season opener on March 22, where CSK will clash with Royal Challengers Bangalore in Chennai, marks the beginning of speculation regarding Dhoni’s potential retirement post-IPL 2024.
Robin Uthappa, who experienced Dhoni’s leadership firsthand at CSK and currently offers insights as an expert on JioCinema, shared his perspective on what might prompt the cricketing legend to hang up his boots.
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“CSK would let him play even if he was on a wheelchair! Get off from the wheelchair, bat, and then go back. But I don’t think the batting is the issue for him, I don’t think batting will ever be an issue for him. I think it’s the wicketkeeping. The knees are getting worn out and he loves keeping. So, because he won’t be able to stand there and add value, he’ll probably move on from the game than for any other reason,” Robin Uthappa reflected.
“A gift for the fans.” – THA7A FOREVER! 🦁💛#Dencoming #WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/pg0Rmg54WR
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 5, 2024
Former England captain Eoin Morgan weighed in on Dhoni’s potential retirement timeline, emphasizing Dhoni’s autonomy in decision-making.
“He’s the type of guy that writes his own script. It’s a feeling thing, most likely for him. If his knees are as bad as Robbie eludes, time is probably ticking because he wouldn’t want to outstay the position that he has put the franchise in simply because he’ll always want the franchise to succeed. He’s so generous with his time, with his respect, he’ll want somebody to come in and take over the mantle,” Eoin Morgan remarked.
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Suresh Raina, Dhoni’s longtime teammate and a vital cog in CSK’s success, shed light on the unparalleled connection between Dhoni and the franchise.
“The best thing about MS is that he comes to Chennai one month or three weeks before the IPL. He bats for around two to three hours under humid conditions and does gym training. During this time, there’s a lot of team bonding and I think it’s something magical,” Suresh Raina shared, highlighting Dhoni’s dedication and the unique team camaraderie fostered in Chennai.
