MS Dhoni handed over the Chennai Super (CSK) captaincy before of the present Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) season, and opening batter Ruturaj Gaikwad was chosen the new captain.
Despite many stars, Dhoni stole attention during CSK’s first match versus RCB on March 22 in Chennai. The experienced wicket-keeper batsman is a major draw, sparking speculation this IPL season could be his CSK farewell.
MS Dhoni was at his tactical best against RCB, regularly communicating with Gaikwad. The former skipper was also spotted preparing fields for the bowlers.
The camera also kept moving to Dhoni from time to time. Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag responded by joking that the cameras should also pay attention to Gaikwad because he was captain.
Sehwag stated during his Haryanvi comments on Jio Cinema:
“Bhai, Ruturaj (Gaikwad) ka bhi chehra dekha do ek do baar vo bhi captain hai. Sirf (MS) Dhoni ka hi Chahraa dekha raha hai (Brother, please show Rituraj’s face as well, he is the captain. The cameraman is showing only Dhoni’s face).”
Virender Sehwag
Defending champions CSK began their season with a spectacular six-wicket victory against RCB. Mustafizur Rahman was the standout of the bowlers, taking four wickets.
RCB concluded on 173/6 after 20 overs, thanks to a late blitz by Anuj Rawat (48) and Dinesh Karthik (38*). CSK chased down the target in just 18.4 overs. Rachin Ravindra and Shivam Dube excelled with the bat, scoring 37 and 34* respectively.
“He might not play all games” – Chris Gayle on MS Dhoni’s participation in IPL 2024
Former West Indies captain Chris Gayle believes MS Dhoni may not play every game for CSK in the IPL 2024. He believed the seasoned campaigner could take a few days off between games.
Gayle expressed optimism regarding the 42-year-old player’s prospects for a successful campaign this season. However, she maintained
“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.”
Chris Gayle
CSK will now face Gujarat Titans (GT) at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Tuesday, March 26.