MS Dhoni's IPL 2024 all but finished? Chris Gayle's shocking revelation
Updated - 23 Mar 2024, 11:59 AM
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Former West Indies opener Chris Gayle made a surprising revelation about legendary MS Dhoni’s future in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Chris Gayle stated that MS Dhoni may not participate in every match in the IPL 2024 after stepping down from the captaincy.
MS Dhoni stunned the cricketing world by stepping down from captaincy just one day before the start of the ongoing IPL season. Young opener Ruturaj Gaikwad took over the reins from the wicketkeeper. However, Dhoni will continue to represent CSK as a player.
Since retiring from international cricket in August 2020, Dhoni has focused solely on his IPL career. Despite speculation about retirement after last year’s knee injury, the five-time IPL-winning captain made him available to play for the Super Kings in the IPL 2024.
The Jharkhand-born cricketer led the team to a record-equalling fifth title despite grappling with a knee injury throughout IPL 2023. CSK secured their fifth title by defeating the Gujarat Titans in the final clash. He immediately underwent surgery to address the issue.
There May Be A Little Break In Between For Him – Chris Gayle
Chris Gayle made a prediction ahead of the CSK vs RCB season opener, stating that MS Dhoni might not participate in every match. Gayle highlighted the possibility of Dhoni taking occasional breaks during the season.
“He (MS Dhoni) might not play all games. There may be a little break in between for him. that’s why the decision. But MSD will go well, don’t worry about that,” Gayle said on Jio Cinema.
Obviously Had MS Dhoni – Ruturaj Gaikwad
The Chennai Super Kings commenced their title defense with a commanding six-wicket win over Royal Challengers Bangalore. Ruturaj Gaikwad began his captaincy career on a positive note at their home ground, MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, on Friday, March 22.
During the post-match presentation, the newly appointed CSK skipper expressed his enjoyment in leading the side and acknowledged the support of MS Dhoni. He described captaincy as a role he’s always relished and emphasized feeling no additional pressure.
“I’ve always enjoyed it (captaincy), never felt it as an additional pressure. I had experience on how to handle it, never felt any pressure, obviously had Mahi (MS Dhoni) bhai as well.”
“Total control I would say, right from the start (apart) from 2-3 overs. Would’ve loved 10-15 runs less but I think they played really well towards the end. I feel that was a big turning point to get Maxwell and Faf out. We got three quick wickets and it helped us control the next overs, that was the real turning point.”
In their first match of the season, the CSK batting order suggests that MS Dhoni has been demoted further down the lineup, slated to bat at number eight. This indicates a potentially limited role with the bat for the former CSK skipper throughout the season.
While Dhoni’s batting position may have shifted, his role behind the stumps remains crucial, with both wicketkeeping responsibilities and guidance for young captain Gaikwad, who is starting his debut season leading the Championship side.
