Image Source: IPL/BCCI
[Saba Sports News] The iconic Chennai Super Kings captain, MS Dhoni, is gearing up to lead his team in his 15th season for the upcoming IPL 2024.
Dhoni, one of the most successful captains in IPL history, has steered CSK to five championships. Since retiring from international cricket in 2020, there’s been constant speculation about his IPL retirement. Yet, Dhoni has consistently returned, guiding CSK to championships in 2021 and 2023.
The forthcoming season is widely anticipated to be his swan song, with discussions already underway about his successor. CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan disclosed that the decision for Dhoni’s replacement would be left to the captain and coach, as per the directive from CSK owner N Srinivasan.
“In internal discussions, Srinivasan has made it very clear. Let’s not talk about captain and vice-captain appointments. Let’s leave it to the coach and the captain to decide. He has said that ‘the captain and the coach will decide and give us a directive, till then let’s all keep quiet,” shared Viswanathan.
Viswanathan emphasized Dhoni’s approach to each season, focusing primarily on winning league matches and aiming for the playoffs. Dhoni, after the last final, promised his fans a return this season, motivated by the widespread support across India.
“Before every season, MS Dhoni tells us ‘first let us concentrate on league games. We will look to qualify for the knockouts’,” he added.
Despite a knee injury in 2023, he showcased top form, recording his highest strike rate in a single season. As he prepares for what might be his final IPL outing, the Ranchi stalwart aims to conclude his illustrious career with another standout season as both captain and batsman.