Pathan: Dhoni's Last Ride with CSK This IPL Season?
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New Delhi, March 13 (NationPress) Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan is of the opinion that the forthcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) could signify the last time the iconic MS Dhoni dons the yellow jersey for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
Emphasizing Dhoni's significance to the five-time champions, Pathan remarked that it's hard to visualize both CSK and the IPL in the absence of this legendary wicketkeeper-batter.
“CSK is not whole without MS Dhoni. This season could be our final glimpse of him in the yellow jersey, and it's tough to picture CSK and the IPL without his presence. This year, Dhoni's role will be crucial in uniting the team. While I'm uncertain about how many matches he will participate in, his influence in the dressing room will be substantial. Ruturaj Gaikwad leads the team, but a few players are being prepared for future leadership. This is where Dhoni's experience will be invaluable. I hope he can make a difference,” Pathan shared during a conversation with Jio Hotstar.
Pathan mentioned that the CSK management is expected to monitor Dhoni's workload carefully throughout the season, aiming to provide him with a memorable farewell by clinching their sixth title.
“There will be ongoing questions regarding his fitness, batting order, and whether he will participate in all matches. The CSK coaching staff will adopt a gradual approach. They are certainly looking to honor him with a farewell that includes lifting the sixth IPL trophy,” he added.
Dhoni stands as one of the most pivotal players in the CSK setup and is integral to the leadership group, having secured five titles during his captaincy.
Last season was disappointing for CSK, as they ended up at the bottom of the points table, winning only four out of fourteen matches.
In the realm of IPL history, Dhoni remains one of its premier batters, amassing 5,439 runs across 278 matches and 242 innings, with an average of 38.80, a strike rate of 137.45, and 24 half-centuries, with a personal best of 84 not out.