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As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the commencement of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 edition, the spotlight is firmly fixed on the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and their iconic leader, MS Dhoni.
The defending champions are set to kick off the tournament against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on March 22 in Chennai, marking the beginning of what could potentially be a crucial season for the veteran cricketer.
MS Dhoni’s resilience and road to recovery
In the previous season, Dhoni admirably guided CSK to their record-equaling fifth IPL crown. However, the wicketkeeper-batter continued to struggle with his knee throughout the tournament. Following the IPL 2023 final, Dhoni opted for knee surgery, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to his recovery. Through dedicated efforts, he successfully regained fitness in time for the upcoming IPL 2024 season.
Internal talks and speculation surrounding Dhoni’s future
Leading CSK’s training sessions at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium these days, the venue for the IPL 2024 season opener, Dhoni embodied the spirit of resilience that has become synonymous with his illustrious career. While the Super Kings set their sights on defending their title, a cloud of speculation looms regarding Dhoni’s future plans and the potential identification of his successor as captain.
Also READ: IPL 2024: Matthew Hayden, Harbhajan Singh pick winner in Ravindra Jadeja-Glenn Maxwell duel ahead of CSK vs RCB opener
N. Srinivasan’s decision
In a conversation with former CSK batter S Badrinath on his YouTube channel, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has shed light on the team’s internal discussions about a succession plan, acknowledging the possibility that the forthcoming season might be Dhoni’s last. According to Viswanathan, team owner N Srinivasan has taken a hands-off approach, leaving the decision on Dhoni’s successor to the captain and coach.
“See, there have been internal talks. But, Mr. Srinivasan has made it very clear. Let’s not talk about captain and vice-captain appointments. Let’s leave it to the coach and the captain to decide. Let them decide and convey the information to me, and then I will convey it to you all. He has said that ‘the captain and the coach will decide and give us a directive, till then let’s all keep quiet,” Viswanathan said.
Dhoni’s request
Viswanathan highlighted the hope within the CSK camp for another strong showing in IPL 2024. Nevertheless, he emphasized that Dhoni has urged the team to focus on the league stage at present, signaling the captain’s intent to keep the squad grounded amidst the anticipation and speculation surrounding his potential retirement.
“We have always focused on qualifying for the knockouts. That’s our first aim. After that, it depends on the performance on that day. We are following that even now. Before every season, MS Dhoni tells us ‘first let us concentrate on league games’. We will look to qualify for the knockouts. Yes, the pressure is there. But over the years, because of our consistency, most of the players are used to this pressure,” Viswanathan concluded.
