When MS Dhoni, the former captain of India and the inspiration behind Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) triumph in the Indian Premier League (IPL), broke down when discussing the team’s difficult times, it was a rare display of weakness for one of cricket’s most revered and composed personalities.
Dhoni just gave the captaincy to youthful Ruturaj Gaikwad. Dhoni retired from international cricket in 2020 and may participate in his final IPL season in 2024. With Dhoni at the helm, the Yellow Army won the IPL title a record five times, with the final victory coming in the 2023 tournament.
MS Dhoni recalls the challenging times
There have been difficulties along the way for CSK. In a now-viral old video, an emotional Dhoni can be seen fighting to contain his tears. He remembered the difficult times the team had during their two-year (2016–2017) IPL ban because of the alleged spot-fixing and betting practices.
“Our fan base grew during the two years we were not a part of the IPL because they supported us.” That was a difficult period, and I believe I was waiting for the ideal moment for us to unite as a cricket-loving team,” Dhoni says in a video that has been shared on Twitter.
The reason why we love him unconditionally is this.. He is not just another cricketer for us.. He loves Chennai team and fans #Dhoni #Thala #CSK
We are proud CSK fans pic.twitter.com/MJLeEwoAH7
— Saranyadevi Radhakrishnan (@saranyagulam) March 31, 2024
The great cricket player took a sip of water and halted, overcome by the memory of the team’s lowest point. Notwithstanding the loss, Dhoni and his group bounced back, making a triumphant comeback to the IPL in the 2018 season and rapidly regaining their standing as one of the league’s most formidable and adored teams.
Also read: With no responsibility as captain, Rohit Sharma might win the Orange Cap: Sreeshanth
Dhoni has a strong bond with the team’s devoted fan base, which is apparent as he gets ready to maybe say goodbye to the Indian Premier League. The young Gaikwad led CSK to a successful start in the 17th tournament, winning their first two games before losing to the Delhi Capitals. When the squad plays Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 5, they will try to get back on track.
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