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Chennai Super Kings (CSK) bowling coach Eric Simons has addressed the ongoing speculations surrounding the retirement of legendary cricketer MS Dhoni from the Indian Premier League (IPL). As Dhoni nears the age of 43, there is growing curiosity about whether he will continue playing or retire from the IPL. Despite the widespread rumors, Dhoni has yet to reveal his plans.
Last game in IPL 2024
On Saturday, May 18, Dhoni played what might have been his last game in IPL 2024, following CSK’s 27-run defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), which resulted in the Super Kings failing to secure a spot in the playoffs. Simons, in a post-match press conference, highlighted Dhoni’s ability and impact, praising him for his performance and leadership.
“Anybody who wants to speculate about his future, it’s going to be crazy. MS knows what he is going to do. I have seen him hit the ball from the pre-tournament camps to now as well I have seen him hit it for many years. So, he is playing extremely well and he’ll make a decision. But he is a fantastic guy to be around. He’s an incredible cricketer and individual in terms of his understanding of cricket and life,” Simons said in the post-match press conference.
Also READ: IPL 2024 – Virat Kohli reacts hilariously as Dinesh Karthik credits MS Dhoni’s 110m six for RCB’s win over CSK
MS Dhoni almost took CSK home
In a crucial match against RCB, CSK needed to chase down 219 runs to win the match, with a target of 201 runs for the playoffs qualification. Dhoni contributed significantly by scoring 25 runs off 13 balls, including 3 fours and 1 six. His efforts kept CSK in contention, especially with a towering 110-metre six off Yash Dayal in the final over. However, Dhoni’s dismissal on the second ball of the same over ended CSK’s hopes, as they fell short of the qualification mark.
Despite the loss, Simons commended Dhoni for his consistent performance under pressure and his influence on the team. He also emphasized Dhoni’s ability to mentor and guide younger players.
“There are so many memories of MS Dhoni. The knocks that he plays get you out of trouble. With your backs to the wall when he’s at the wicket, you just don’t stop believing. He can win it for you and one of the things he brings to the group is incredible self-belief. But he has a very simple structure and understanding of the game and that’s one of the things that lot of cricketers strive for. He does, and he helps guys with that sort of information and knowledge. It’s not to play like MS but understand your game, and that’s where MS is tremendous,” Simons added.
