Last Update: May 25, 2023, 13:54 IST
MS Dhoni has led CSK to four IPL titles so far. (pic credit: sportzpix)
MS Dhoni himself has said that he will not take any decision on his playing future anytime soon
MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings stormed into yet another IPL final after beating defending champions Gujarat Titans in the first qualifier earlier this week. As much as CSK’s spectacular comeback has grabbed headlines, the uncertainty surrounding Dhoni’s future as a player has gained equal, if not more, importance.
The rousing reception that Dhoni has received at every venue he has played in IPL 2023 is what fans are up to in what could be the last year for the CSK skipper as a player.
However, Dhoni recently provided a slightly clearer picture without confirming whether IPL 2023 is indeed his final as a player.
“Frankly, it takes a heavy toll. I have been out of home literally for four months. I will always come to CSK. I have been out of home since January, practicing since March, so we will see,” Dhoni said in Chennai. Said while answering a question from presenter Harsha Bhogle after CSK’s final match of the season.
However, Dwayne Bravo, Dhoni’s former teammate in the franchise and now a bowling coach, has claimed that the wicketkeeper-batsman is not finished and will definitely come back as a player next year.
“One hundred percent. Especially, with the impact player rule. It will prolong his career,” Bravo said during an interaction with the broadcasters.
He further added, “He (Dhoni) bats really deep. I think Ajinkya Rahane, (Shivam) Dube… these guys make a lot of difference. You don’t need much from MS. But the pressure of the team He has the ability to remain calm when he is in.”
Dhoni had said that he does not want the ‘headache’ of taking a decision now as the next auction is still a few months away.
“On 31st January I left home, finished my work and started practicing from 2nd or 3rd March. It takes a long time, but I have enough time to decide. I have 8-9 months to decide. Why take that headache now? I have enough time to decide. The auction is in December,” Dhoni said.
