Cricket

The question of MS Dhoni's future as a player in the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a topic of speculation for some time. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has addressed the issue, stating that the decision ultimately lies with Dhoni himself.Viswanathan emphasized that CSK respects Dhoni's decisions and has always given him the space to make them on his own terms. He expressed hope that Dhoni will continue to play for CSK next year, acknowledging the expectations of both fans and the franchise.Despite repeated inquiries from broadcasters, Dhoni has remained silent on his plans. However, his decision to hand over the CSK captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the 2024 IPL season has raised questions about his future as a player.At 42 years old, Dhoni's age and the upcoming mega auction in 2025 have prompted CSK to consider their plans for the future. Viswanathan indicated that Dhoni's performance this season, where he scored 161 runs at a strike rate of 220.55 and kept competently, suggests that he is still capable of contributing to the team.Regarding Stephen Fleming, CSK's long-time coach, Viswanathan dismissed rumors linking him to the India head coach role. He stated that Fleming is not interested in a coaching role that requires a long-term commitment.Viswanathan also highlighted that CSK's retention plans for the 2025 IPL season will depend on the guidelines provided by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). He emphasized the need for clarity from the BCCI before the franchise can make any decisions.Despite finishing fifth in the 2024 IPL season, CSK remains a formidable team. They have won the IPL title five times and have a history of bouncing back from setbacks. Viswanathan expressed confidence that CSK will be competitive in the upcoming seasons.

MS Dhoni's IPL Future Uncertain as Experts Predict RetirementFormer Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni's future in the Indian Premier League (IPL) has become a subject of intense speculation following Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) elimination from the 2024 playoffs. Dhoni, who has been a key figure for CSK since the tournament's inception, has faced questions about his longevity due to a reported knee injury and his team's recent struggles.Legendary Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram has expressed his belief that Dhoni may not return to the IPL next season. "I have a gut feeling he'll be done after this," Akram said on Sportskeeda. "Players like him come in a lifetime, it all depends on him."Akram's sentiments were echoed by former Australian batter Matthew Hayden, who stated, "I think this is it. I do believe that this will be the last time that Dhoni will play." Hayden added that he expects Dhoni to remain involved with CSK in an official capacity, possibly as a mentor.Dhoni's performance in the 2024 IPL season has been a topic of discussion. While he has not been as prolific as in previous years, he has still made valuable contributions to CSK's batting lineup. However, his struggles with the bat and his team's overall performance have raised questions about his ability to continue playing at the highest level.Dhoni's leadership and experience have been invaluable to CSK, but the team's recent struggles have put pressure on him to deliver. The franchise has not won an IPL title since 2021 and has failed to reach the playoffs in two of the last three seasons.As Dhoni approaches the twilight of his career, it remains to be seen whether he will continue playing in the IPL. His decision will likely depend on his physical condition, his team's performance, and his own personal aspirations.

Former Indian batsman Ambati Rayudu believes that MS Dhoni's IPL career is not over yet and urges the BCCI to retain the impact player rule to facilitate Dhoni's continued participation in the tournament.Chennai Super Kings' hopes of reaching the playoffs were dashed after a 27-run defeat to Royal Challengers Bangalore on Saturday. Dhoni's team needed 17 runs in the final over to qualify, but RCB bowler Yash Dayal held his nerve to secure the victory.Rayudu, who played alongside Dhoni at CSK, believes that Dhoni is not ready to retire. "I don't think this is his last game. I just don't see him wanting to end on this note," Rayudu said. "He looked a little frustrated, even when he got out. That's very unlike MS Dhoni, he just wanted to qualify and finish on a high. But you never know with MS Dhoni, he might come back next year."Rayudu also highlighted the importance of the impact player rule in keeping Dhoni involved. "With the impact player role as well, it gives him the opportunity to be able to come in those last few overs and truly make that impact," Rayudu said. "BCCI better not remove the impact player role because we still want to see MS Dhoni play. So, it's up to BCCI now. Do we want to see MS Dhoni play or not."Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden also commented on Dhoni's performance, noting that while his physical abilities may be diminishing, his leadership and cricketing knowledge remain invaluable. "As a leader, he is The Thala of the Chennai Super Kings. This is telling me that nothing here is about becoming anything else other than first place. He's desperately using his brains, all of that cricket knowledge," Hayden said.Despite the disappointment of the loss, RCB continued their impressive run of form with their sixth consecutive win, securing a place in the playoffs.

MS Dhoni Reflects on Challenges of Competing in IPL at 42, Balancing Life After International CricketFormer Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni has opened up about the physical and mental challenges of competing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) at the age of 42. Despite stepping down as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain, Dhoni played a crucial role in the team's campaign this season. However, CSK failed to make the playoffs, finishing fifth with seven wins, seven losses, and 14 points.In an interview with Dubai Eye 103.8's YouTube channel, Dhoni emphasized the importance of fitness in competing with younger players. "The toughest thing is... I am not playing cricket throughout the year. So I have to be fit. Once I come, you are competing against youngsters who are fit and playing international cricket. Professional sport is not easy, nobody gives you a discount for age," Dhoni said.Dhoni highlighted the need for a strict diet and training regimen to maintain fitness. He also noted that social media distractions are minimal for him as he is not active on those platforms.Since retiring from international cricket, Dhoni has enjoyed spending more time with his family. "Once I quit international cricket, I wanted to spend a bit more time with my family. But, at that same time, to be mentally active, to have that passion to stay focused -- for me, I love farming, for me it is the motorbikes, I have started getting into vintage cars. These things de-stress me," he explained.Dhoni also mentioned his love for pets, particularly dogs, which provide him with unconditional love and a sense of normalcy even after tough matches.Despite managing his workload due to a knee surgery last year, Dhoni made a notable impact in IPL 2024. Batting in crucial moments, he scored 161 runs in 14 matches at an impressive average of 53.67 and a staggering strike rate of 220.55.

Rachin Ravindra, the New Zealand cricketer of Indian descent, made his Indian Premier League (IPL) debut for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the recently concluded season. Sharing the dressing room with legendary captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Ravindra had a memorable experience despite CSK's failure to reach the playoffs.In his maiden IPL season, Ravindra showcased his batting prowess, scoring 222 runs in 10 matches with a highest score of 61 and a strike rate of 160.87. The 22-year-old expressed his admiration for Dhoni, stating, "To be able to share a field with him and benefit from his wisdom off it is extremely valuable."Ravindra's Indian heritage stems from his parents, who migrated to New Zealand from Bangalore in the 1990s. His unique name, Rachin, is a tribute to Indian cricket icons Rahul Dravid and Sachin Tendulkar.Despite his Indian roots, Ravindra identifies himself as a Kiwi, having been born and raised in New Zealand. However, he cherishes his connection to India, saying, "I always loved coming to India. The people, food, and everything is amazing."Ravindra's next major assignment will be the T20 World Cup in Australia next month, where he will represent New Zealand. The young cricketer is eager to make a mark on the global stage and continue his journey in the world of cricket.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 playoffs are set to commence, with Kolkata Knight Riders, SunRisers Hyderabad, Rajasthan Royals, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru vying for the coveted trophy. However, the minds of many IPL enthusiasts are preoccupied with a pressing question: Is this the end of the road for MS Dhoni?The Chennai Super Kings legend witnessed his team's heartbreaking defeat against RCB on Saturday, which eliminated them from the tournament. Dhoni was visibly devastated by the loss.After leading CSK to victory in IPL 2023, Dhoni had hinted at retirement. However, he expressed his desire to continue playing for at least one more season due to the immense love and support he received from fans. That "one season" concluded on Saturday, but Dhoni has yet to make an official announcement regarding his IPL future.According to a report in the Times of India, Dhoni will take a few months to make a decision. "Dhoni has not informed anyone in CSK that he is quitting. He has told the management that he will wait for a couple of months before making a final call," a source close to the developments revealed.The report also stated that Dhoni was "devastated" after the loss and was among the first to leave the CSK camp for his hometown Ranchi on Sunday morning. He was later spotted riding his bike in Ranchi.In the RCB vs CSK match, Faf du Plessis's RCB needed a victory to secure a top-four finish. The excitement was palpable at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium as RCB emerged victorious by 27 runs. However, the celebrations from the players drew criticism after Dhoni left the pitch without shaking hands.Videos on social media showed Dhoni waiting for the RCB players, who continued celebrating, before making his way to the dressing room without shaking hands. Virat Kohli later followed him inside to speak with the veteran star.During a discussion on Cricbuzz, former England cricket team skipper Michael Vaughan criticized RCB players for not taking the time to shake hands with Dhoni. "I can see that with the RCB team. They enjoy a lot of support but they also wind out the people. We saw a lot of that tonight. I get that that they have never been in a position where they have won the IPL and they desperately made it to the eliminations. But you don't wanna be one of those teams that everyone wants to lose," Vaughan said.

MS Dhoni, the legendary Indian cricketer and former captain, has emphasized the importance of a captain earning respect through their conduct in both victory and defeat. Dhoni, who has led India to numerous ICC trophies and Chennai Super Kings to multiple IPL titles, believes that true respect is earned by leading by example, especially during challenging times."You lead by example through ups and downs because when you are successful it's very easy to say this is what we do but when times are tough is the real-time and you have to walk that talk - in those moments if you are still the same, that time you earn the respect," Dhoni said in a video posted by Dubai Eye 103.8 YouTube channel.Dhoni's philosophy of leadership is based on the principle that respect cannot be demanded but must be earned through one's actions and demeanor. He believes that a captain should set a positive example for their team, both on and off the field, and should be willing to take responsibility for both successes and failures."The important thing is that you need to earn the respect of the people you are leading. You cannot command or demand respect, it has to be earned. I may have a position in the institution and it needs to be respected. But I as an individual, sitting on that chair, need to earn that respect. I can't be saying you need to respect me because I'm sitting on this chair," he added.Dhoni's leadership style has been praised by many, including former teammates and opponents. He is known for his calm and composed demeanor, even in the most intense situations. He is also known for his ability to motivate and inspire his players, and for his strategic acumen.Dhoni's comments come at a time when Chennai Super Kings are struggling in the ongoing IPL season. The team has lost several key matches and their chances of making the playoffs are slim. However, Dhoni has remained positive and has urged his players to continue fighting until the end."We have to keep fighting. We have to keep believing. We have to keep working hard. And we have to keep improving. That's the only way we can turn things around," Dhoni said after CSK's loss to Royal Challengers Bangalore.Dhoni's leadership will be crucial for Chennai Super Kings as they look to salvage their season. If they can turn things around and make the playoffs, it will be a testament to Dhoni's ability to lead his team through adversity.

Uncapped Indian pacer Yash Dayal has emerged as a hero for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) after his stellar performance in the team's victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK), securing their spot in the IPL 2024 playoffs. Dayal's exceptional bowling in the final over earned him the Player of the Match award, which was dedicated to him by RCB skipper Faf du Plessis.Dayal's journey with RCB has not been without its challenges. After being acquired by the franchise in last year's auction, he faced criticism and skepticism about his place in the team. However, Dayal remained determined to prove his worth, stating, "I didn't want to prove people wrong, I just had to prove myself."RCB's unwavering support has been instrumental in Dayal's success. "RCB told me from day 1 that I'm an important player for them," he said. "They've backed me to the core, and the results you're seeing now are due to their backing and trusting on me."In the match against CSK, Dayal was initially not scheduled to bowl the 20th over. However, a strategic decision by du Plessis and Dinesh Karthik led to a change of plan. Dayal admitted to feeling nervous, especially after conceding five sixes to Rinku Singh in a previous match."After what happened to me last time, there was nervousness," Dayal said. "But I have done well in the past, I have done well after that, so all that was running through my mind was to deliver a good ball. I didn't want to look at the scoreboard or the result. I just wanted to bowl well. I was confident with my execution."Dayal's resilience and determination have paid off, and he has become a valuable asset for RCB. His performance in the playoffs will be crucial as the team aims to secure the IPL title.

MS Dhoni's IPL Legacy: Ambati Rayudu Urges Legend to Play One More SeasonFormer Chennai Super Kings (CSK) middle-order batter Ambati Rayudu has expressed his desire for Mahendra Singh Dhoni to extend his illustrious Indian Premier League (IPL) career by one more season. Rayudu's plea comes after CSK's disappointing elimination from the tournament, which has sparked speculation about Dhoni's potential retirement from the league."MS Dhoni should play one more season. This shouldn't be his last, he cannot leave like this, he should play next season and win the IPL. He's a once in a generation player and once in a generation human being," Rayudu said on Star Sports.Rayudu's comments reflect the immense respect and admiration he holds for Dhoni, who has been a pivotal figure in CSK's success over the years. Under Dhoni's leadership, CSK has won four IPL titles and has consistently been one of the most formidable teams in the league.Dhoni's retirement would mark the end of an era for CSK and the IPL as a whole. The 41-year-old has been a constant presence in the tournament since its inception in 2008, and his experience and leadership have been invaluable to his teams.However, Dhoni's recent form has raised questions about his ability to continue playing at the highest level. In this season's IPL, he has struggled with the bat, scoring only 232 runs in 14 matches. Despite his struggles, Dhoni remains a key figure in the CSK dressing room, and his presence alone can inspire his teammates.Rayudu's plea for Dhoni to play one more season is likely to resonate with CSK fans and cricket enthusiasts around the world. Dhoni's legacy in the IPL is unmatched, and his retirement would be a significant loss for the tournament.