Cricket

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have secured a berth in the IPL 2024 playoffs after a thrilling victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Saturday. However, the match was marred by unsavory incidents both on and off the field.RCB's win sparked wild celebrations inside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, but the players were criticized for not shaking hands with MS Dhoni, who may have played his last game for CSK. Dhoni, 42, had led CSK to a record-equalling fifth IPL title last year but had hinted at retirement after the season.Outside the stadium, RCB supporters were accused of heckling CSK fans during their victory celebrations. In one viral video, a CSK fan was manhandled by RCB supporters.Despite the post-match controversies, RCB's performance on the field cannot be denied. After losing seven of their first eight matches, they have won six consecutive games to secure a playoff spot.CSK, on the other hand, failed to qualify for the playoffs for the first time since 2020. Dhoni, who handed over the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad before the season, played a crucial role in CSK's campaign, adding 61 runs for the seventh wicket with Ravindra Jadeja. However, his dismissal by Yash Dayal swung the game in RCB's favor.The Qualifier 2 and the final of this year's IPL are scheduled to be held at Chepauk, CSK's home ground. Fans had hoped to see Dhoni and his team lift the trophy in front of their home crowd, but that dream was dashed by their failure to reach the playoffs.

MS Dhoni's future with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) remains uncertain after the team's disappointing loss to Royal Challengers Bangalore on Saturday. Despite hitting a massive 110-meter six in the first ball of the last over, Dhoni was unable to connect for the second six, leaving CSK short of victory.Sources close to the team have revealed that Dhoni has not yet made a decision on his retirement. He has informed the management that he will take a few months to consider his options. This has given CSK hope that Dhoni may not have played his last match for the franchise.Dhoni's batting and wicketkeeping form have been encouraging. Against RCB, he scored 25 runs at a strike rate of nearly 200, outperforming designated hitters like Ravindra Jadeja and Shivam Dube. He also showed no discomfort in his running between the wickets, indicating that his calf injury is healing.CSK's management is confident that Dhoni will keep his promise of playing his last game at Chepauk. They believe that his strong performance and the possibility of a big auction next year, where teams may be allowed to retain only five players, could influence his decision.The 'impact sub' rule, which allows teams to substitute a player for the last two overs, may also play a role in Dhoni's decision. If the BCCI abolishes this rule, it may not be feasible for teams to have a batter exclusively for 12 balls.CSK has left the decision to Dhoni, respecting his commitment to the team's best interests. The franchise will await his communication and support his choice.

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.

MS Dhoni's IPL Future Remains Uncertain, But Uthappa Believes He Can ContinueFormer Chennai Super Kings (CSK) wicketkeeper-batter Robin Uthappa has expressed his belief that franchise icon MS Dhoni may continue to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) beyond this season. Dhoni's IPL future has been the subject of speculation in recent years due to injuries that have limited his participation in the tournament.As CSK faced Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in a crucial match that could determine their playoff fate, many believed that the game might be Dhoni's last in the IPL if they failed to reach the playoffs. However, even after the conclusion of the match, clarity on Dhoni's future remains elusive.Uthappa, who played alongside Dhoni for CSK, believes that the veteran wicketkeeper-batter can extend his IPL career beyond this season. "Is this MS's last run? I don't think so, personally, I don't think so," Uthappa said before the match. "But, do they want to spoil RCB's party? Definitely. Ruturaj, I think, would want to get to the knockout stage in his first season as captain. That will be a huge confidence booster for him and for CSK. It's one for the long run. Let's see where that goes."To replace CSK in the top four, RCB needed to win the match by at least 18 runs if they scored a minimum of 200 runs batting first or win in 18.1 overs if they were chasing 200. They eventually won by 27 runs and qualified for the playoffs, while CSK were knocked out of the playoff race.Dhoni's future with CSK and the IPL remains uncertain, but Uthappa's comments suggest that the veteran player may not be ready to hang up his boots just yet.

MS Dhoni's IPL Farewell: A Disappointing End to a Legendary Career?The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season has come to a close, and with it, the curtain may have fallen on the illustrious career of MS Dhoni in the tournament. The former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain's last match in the IPL was a heartbreaking loss to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Eliminator.Dhoni, who has been battling fitness issues throughout the season, was expected to go out with a bang. He had hit a six on the first ball of the final over, but RCB's Yash Dayal struck on the second delivery to dismiss him and seal the victory for his team.However, a video that has emerged on social media has raised questions about Dhoni's conduct after the match. The footage shows Dhoni skipping the handshake line with RCB players and returning to the dressing room.This incident has sparked criticism from some quarters, with former England captain Michael Vaughan tweeting, "Dhoni should learn how to handle loss with grace from Kohli. Handshake is one of the great things about our game."It is unclear if Dhoni later shook hands with RCB's playing XI, but his decision to leave the field without doing so has been met with disappointment by many fans.In another video, Virat Kohli is seen following Dhoni into the dressing room, presumably to shake hands with him. This gesture suggests that there was no animosity between the two players, but it does not excuse Dhoni's behavior.The Qualifier 2 and the final of this year's IPL are scheduled to be held at Chepauk, CSK's home ground. Fans had hoped to see Dhoni and his team lift the trophy in front of their home crowd, but the team's disappointing season has dashed those hopes.Dhoni's legacy in the IPL is undeniable. He led CSK to four titles and is widely regarded as one of the greatest captains in the tournament's history. However, his exit from the IPL has been marred by controversy, leaving a sour taste in the mouths of many fans.

MS Dhoni's Dismissal Cost Chennai Super Kings a Playoff Spot, Says Aakash ChopraFormer India cricketer and renowned analyst Aakash Chopra believes that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) could have secured a place in the IPL 2024 playoffs if MS Dhoni had not been dismissed by Yash Dayal's slower ball. CSK, the defending champions, were eliminated from the tournament after a 27-run defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Saturday.Reflecting on CSK's chase in his YouTube channel, Chopra highlighted the crucial impact of Dhoni's dismissal. "MS Dhoni was there along with Ravindra Jadeja. Dhoni kept them alive. Maybe this was the last time we saw Dhoni. He hit the longest six of this season - 110 meters. He also hit two fours on the leg side. If MS Dhoni hadn't gotten out to the back-of-the-hand ball, he would have won the game (taken CSK to the playoffs)," Chopra commented.Dhoni joined Jadeja when CSK required 72 runs off 30 balls, a daunting task that seemed almost impossible. However, the duo managed to narrow the gap, bringing the equation (for playoff qualification) down to 11 runs needed off the last five balls. Dhoni's presence kept the hope alive for CSK until he was caught at deep square leg off a slower ball from Dayal, effectively sealing CSK's fate."From where he started, it didn't seem like winning the game was possible. Not winning, you know I am talking about 201, winning the match was beyond them. Jadeja was hitting sixes off the first ball of every over. However, Yash Dayal bowled well in the last over. Only 17 runs were required. He saved them and RCB won with a decent margin and progressed," Chopra added.Dhoni’s valiant effort included the season’s longest six at 110 meters and some strategic boundaries, showcasing his enduring skill and resilience despite battling a knee injury throughout the season. His partnership with Jadeja brought CSK tantalizingly close to playoffs, emphasizing Dhoni’s critical role in the team’s performance.As Dhoni's future in the IPL remains uncertain, his potential final innings in the league was marked by characteristic determination and fighting spirit. The cricketing community now waits to see whether Dhoni will return next season or if this was the last of his legendary contributions to the IPL.

Despite Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) disappointing exit from the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa and Australian all-rounder Shane Watson believe that MS Dhoni will return to the tournament next season.Dhoni, who played through a knee injury, showcased impressive form throughout the season, scoring 161 runs at an average of 53.66 and a strike rate of 220.54. However, his efforts were not enough to secure a playoff spot for CSK, as they lost to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a crucial game.Uthappa expressed his confidence in Dhoni's return, stating, "I don't think we have seen the last of MS. He is not someone who takes these things lightly. He will come back roaring for sure." He also shed light on Dhoni's injury, explaining that the veteran cricketer had been managing a calf injury that was more serious than initially thought.Watson echoed Uthappa's sentiments, expressing his hope to see Dhoni continue in the IPL for at least another one or two years. "He batted beautifully again. There is no doubt that he can fulfill a very important role for CSK, even if it's coming in and facing 13-15 balls each game and doing this. He played incredibly well. Fingers crossed, MSD can roll out again for at least one or two more years, fulfilling this role which is a little less demanding physically on him anyway," Watson said.Dhoni's commitment was evident in his last match, where he played a valiant knock of 25 off 13 deliveries, falling in the final over of the chase. His ability to adapt and still contribute significantly underlines his importance to the team.Dhoni had stepped down as CSK captain ahead of the 2024 season, handing over the reins to Ruturaj Gaikwad after leading the team to five IPL titles. His presence, both on and off the field, continues to be a cornerstone for CSK, and fans, along with cricketing greats, are hopeful to see him in action again next season.

Chennai Super Kings' bowling consultant, Eric Simons, has heaped praise on the team's legendary captain, MS Dhoni, following their exit from the IPL 2023 playoffs. Despite CSK's title defense ending with a 27-run loss to Royal Challengers Bangalore, Simons highlighted Dhoni's enduring qualities and the impact he continues to have on the team.Having worked closely with Dhoni during his tenure as India's bowling consultant in 2010, Simons emphasized the simplicity and clarity with which Dhoni approaches the game. He believes that this is a trait that all cricketers should strive to emulate. Simons also lauded Dhoni's ability to instill self-belief in his teammates and his knack for guiding the team out of challenging situations."There are countless memories of MS Dhoni, the innings he plays that get you out of trouble," Simons said. "I was in the dugout and said it was incredible that we were in a situation with our backs against the wall and he was at the wicket. You just don't stop believing he can win for you. So I think that's one of the things he brings to the group: incredible self-belief."Regarding the speculation surrounding Dhoni's future, Simons believes it is premature and unnecessary. He emphasized that Dhoni is the only one who knows what his plans are and that he is still playing at a high level."I think anybody who wants to speculate about his future is crazy," Simons said. "MS knows what he's going to do. I know that this year I've seen him hit the ball from the pre-tournament camp. So he's playing extremely well and he'll make the decision. But he's a fantastic guy to be around."Simons also praised Dhoni's understanding of the game and his ability to convey it to his teammates in a simple and effective manner. He believes that this is one of Dhoni's greatest strengths as a leader."He has been fantastic to witness from the days I was with India and now with CSK," Simons said. "He's an incredible cricketer and an incredible individual in terms of his understanding of cricket and life. I think in many ways that what he passes on to guys is the incredible self-belief, never say die, and a simple understanding of the game of cricket. He can put it in simple words, and I think that's one of the best things about him."As for the upcoming Eliminator clash, RCB's opponent will be determined by the results of the matches between Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders, and Sunrisers Hyderabad and Punjab Kings.

MS Dhoni, the legendary Indian cricketer, has been synonymous with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise since the inception of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008. However, a recent revelation by former India opener Virender Sehwag has shed light on an intriguing fact: Dhoni was not the initial choice to lead CSK.According to Sehwag, VB Chandrashekhar, who was responsible for assembling the CSK squad ahead of the inaugural IPL season, had approached him to join the franchise. Sehwag was offered the role of captain, but he ultimately decided to accept an offer from the Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) to become their icon player."VB Chandrashekhar was selecting the players for CSK. He called me and said, 'We want you to play for CSK. Delhi Daredevils want you to be their icon. Don't accept the offer.' I was like, fine, we will see," Sehwag recalled."Finally, I received the offer from Delhi Daredevils to be their icon player and I accepted it. I didn't go into the auction. If I were a part of the auction, CSK would've bought me and made me the captain of the side. But then, they bought MS Dhoni and made him the captain," Sehwag added.Had Sehwag joined CSK, it is likely that he would have been the team's captain, given his stature and experience at the time. However, fate had other plans, and Dhoni went on to become one of the most successful captains in IPL history, leading CSK to five titles.Sehwag's revelation highlights the unpredictable nature of sports and the often-surprising decisions that shape the course of events. It also serves as a reminder of the immense respect and admiration that Dhoni has earned throughout his illustrious career.