Dhoni enjoys cricket, the celebrated Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain, recently expressed his desire to enjoy “whatever last few years” he can in cricket. At a recent event in Goa, Dhoni highlighted his plans to play for pure enjoyment, much like when he was a child, hinting at a mindset of relaxation despite the professional challenges of IPL cricket. CSK’s CEO Kasi Viswanathan remains hopeful that Dhoni will be back for IPL 2025, but fans await a final decision. Dhoni enjoys cricket.
With IPL teams required to submit their player retention lists by October 31, CSK is weighing options to retain Dhoni as an “uncapped” player. Under a revived rule, players who retired from international cricket over five years ago are eligible to be treated as uncapped, allowing CSK to possibly retain Dhoni for a reduced cost in the IPL auction. Dhoni’s future in IPL remains uncertain, but his enthusiasm for the game, especially for enjoying every moment, has reassured fans.
Dhoni’s Role in IPL 2024 and Team Strategy
In IPL 2024, Dhoni batted lower in the order, focusing on supporting CSK’s young Indian talent, many vying for a spot in the T20 World Cup squad. This move was also part of Dhoni’s approach to load management after a knee surgery. Reflecting on his decisions, he stated, “If others are doing their job well, why do I need to come up the order?” He prioritized nurturing teammates like Ravindra Jadeja and Shivam Dube, who could benefit from added exposure.
A Fan of Bazball
Dhoni also voiced admiration for “Bazball,” a term for the aggressive approach now seen in Test cricket, introduced under England’s Test coach Brendon McCullum. He appreciates how Test matches have become more result-oriented, shifting from traditional, often slower-paced formats. According to Dhoni, “You can give cricket any term… but at the end of the day, it’s a way to play.” He emphasized that it’s essential to play to a team’s strengths and allow time for players to adapt to any new approach.
Reflecting on His Test Cricket Days
Dhoni admitted that the final days of a Test match, especially those drifting towards a draw, were mentally challenging for him as a keeper. “The most difficult time was when you knew it would be a draw but had to continue for 2.5 more sessions,” he said. Today, Dhoni admires how Test cricket has evolved to deliver more decisive outcomes. The idea of getting results even when games are shortened by weather is a significant change he values, as it adds excitement for both players and fans.
As fans eagerly await the IPL 2025 season, Dhoni’s reflections highlight his love for cricket, whether it’s smashing sixes in the IPL or watching thrilling Test matches with no draws. While the future remains uncertain, Dhoni’s passion for the game shines through, leaving fans hoping for at least one more IPL season with the legend in CSK’s yellow.
