INDIA: In a recent interview, Kasi Viswanathan, the CEO of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise, shed light on the future of legendary cricketer MS Dhoni in the Indian Premier League (IPL) following his success in the 2023 season.
While Dhoni led CSK to their fifth IPL title, his commitment to the team and his physical condition have raised questions about his participation in the upcoming season.
Viswanathan revealed that the franchise never directly asked Dhoni whether he wanted to continue playing or not. The trust placed in the former Indian captain was based on the belief that if he was unable to continue, he would inform the team management without hesitation.
Acknowledging Dhoni’s leadership and the benefits it brings to the team, Viswanathan spoke about the challenges the veteran cricketer faced throughout the tournament. Despite struggling with injuries, Dhoni never complained about his knee problem until after the final match. Following CSK’s victory, he expressed his decision to undergo surgery immediately, indicating his commitment to the team’s cause.
Having undergone the surgery post-IPL, Dhoni is now expected to begin his rehabilitation process soon. Viswanathan shared that after a courtesy visit to Dhoni in Mumbai, where he was resting after attending a wedding, the cricketer confirmed his intention to rest for three weeks before commencing his rehabilitation. Furthermore, Dhoni expressed his plans not to participate in any matches until January or February.
However, Viswanathan made it clear that he does not possess any definitive information regarding Dhoni’s long-term plans. He emphasized that Dhoni, with his wealth of experience, knows how to make decisions about his future and communicate them appropriately.
As per tradition, Dhoni will personally inform the owner of CSK, Mr. N Srinivasan, about his plans. This direct channel of communication has been maintained since the inception of the team in 2008 and will continue to be followed.
The uncertainty surrounding Dhoni’s future has left fans eagerly awaiting news about his potential participation in the upcoming IPL season. The charismatic cricketer has always kept his intentions close to his chest, and it appears that this time will be no different.
Fans will have to patiently wait for Dhoni himself to reveal his plans, which will likely be communicated exclusively to Mr. N Srinivasan.
As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the return of IPL, the focus on Dhoni’s next move remains a subject of intrigue and speculation. The enigmatic cricketer’s decision will undoubtedly shape the dynamics of CSK and influence the emotions of fans around the globe.
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