After leading the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to their fifth Indian Premier League (IPL) title, MS Dhoni, the CSK skipper, provided a significant update regarding his potential retirement. Dhoni, who now shares the record for the most IPL titles as captain with Rohit Sharma, expressed his desire to continue training for the next nine months and potentially play in the next season as a “gift” for his fans. While acknowledging that announcing retirement would be the easy option, Dhoni wants to work hard and make a comeback for at least one more IPL season.
During the post-match presentation, Dhoni expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming love and support he received throughout the year. He stated that the easy thing for him would be to say ‘thank you’ and retire, but he feels a responsibility to put in the effort and come back stronger for another season. Dhoni emphasized that his decision would heavily depend on the condition of his body, and it would take around six to seven months to make a final call. He sees it as a way to reciprocate the love and affection shown by his fans, considering it more like a gift from his side.
Reflecting on the emotions he experienced after winning the IPL title, Dhoni admitted that his eyes welled up with tears and he needed some time alone in the dugout to absorb the moment. He acknowledged that the fans appreciate him for his grounded nature and authenticity, as he doesn’t try to portray someone he is not. Dhoni emphasized the significance of every trophy and highlighted the unique challenge of being ready for high-pressure games in the IPL.
Under Dhoni’s leadership, the Chennai Super Kings have further enhanced their remarkable record in the IPL by securing their fifth title. In a thrilling final against the Gujarat Titans, CSK emerged victorious by five wickets, chasing a revised target of 171 in 15 overs due to rain interruption. B Sai Sudharsan played a remarkable inning of 96 runs off 47 balls to help the Titans post a competitive total of 214 for four. In the final over, Ravindra Jadeja hit a six and a four off Mohit Sharma’s bowling, securing the title for CSK on the last ball.
This year’s IPL has been dominated by the aura surrounding Dhoni, and the final served as a fitting culmination of his journey in the T20 league. Despite the challenges posed by the Gujarat Titans and the two-day delay caused by adverse weather, Dhoni’s team triumphed, drawing level with their arch-rivals, the Mumbai Indians, in terms of most IPL trophy wins.
The question now remains whether Dhoni will indeed return and lead the Chennai Super Kings once again next year. The entire IPL, including the final, was centered around Dhoni-mania, and fans eagerly await his decision. His potential comeback would undoubtedly be a significant moment for cricket enthusiasts and CSK supporters alike.
