In a stunning development, MS Dhoni stepped down from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captaincy just days before the opening match of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.
During a team meeting on Thursday, the legendary wicketkeeper-batsman handed over the Super Kings baton to all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.
MSD captained CSK in 204 IPL matches, winning 121 and losing 82. His win percentage was 59.6 in the cash-rich tournament. Under Dhoni’s tenure, CSK won four IPL titles and clinched two Champions League T20 trophies.
In the inaugural edition of IPL, the CSK veteran had led his side to the summit clash, where they fell short against Rajasthan Royals (RR). The Super Kings won their first IPL title in 2010 and followed it with another title triumph in 2011. CSK then went on to seal the IPL trophies in 2018 and 2021.
Having Dhoni stepping down as captain, it would be interesting to see how the franchise uses the brains of a maverick leader.
In the meantime, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has shed light upon Dhoni’s continual with the team and his future with the franchise. Viswanathan said he doesn’t believe that the 2022 edition of IPL T20 would be Dhoni’s last while pointing out that the CSK legend had thought his decision through before handing over the reins of the team.
“No, I don’t think (this is going to be his last season). He will carry on,” Viswanathan was quoted as saying to The Indian Express.
“We have always respected the decision of MS. He has been a pillar of strength for us. He will continue to be a pillar of strength and he will guide Jaddu (Jadeja) and the other members of the team. He is expecting a smooth transition from him to Jaddu and that’s why he has taken the decision. As a captain and player, who has always cared for CSK, he must have taken the decision in the best interest of CSK.”
Last year, during a felicitation ceremony, Dhoni had mentioned that he intends to play his last IPL match in front of CSK fans at the MA Chidambaram in Chennai. Since all the matches of the upcoming season are scheduled in Mumbai and Pune, it is expected that Dhoni will probably return one final time next year.
CSK will begin their IPL 2022 campaign on March 26 against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
