The calm atmosphere preceding a storm engulfed Chepauk on Friday evening as MS Dhoni stepped onto the nets for his inaugural hit after joining the Chennai Super Kings training camp ahead of IPL 2024. Sporting his trademark long hair, Dhoni padded up and familiarise himself with the rhythm of striking balls in the heart of the park, drawing admiration from his teammates.

Dhoni’s return to competitive action marks a significant milestone since clinching victory in the IPL 2023 final. Scheduled to commence their new season against Royal Challengers Bangalore in Chennai on March 22, Dhoni’s journey back has been marked by rehabilitation following knee surgery last year, culminating in his arrival in Chennai earlier this month to prepare for IPL 2024.

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Amidst anticipative glances, Dhoni exuded confidence in the nets, commencing his batting practice with a careful leave outside the off-stump, as captured in a video shared by the Super Kings on Saturday. Though refraining from extravagant strokes, Dhoni exhibited solidity in his drives and pushes. His reflexes were on display as he negotiated yorkers, tackled spinners, and acclimatized to the Chepauk conditions, expected to favor spin-friendly tracks during the summer.

Following his attendance at Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s pre-wedding festivities in Jamnagar earlier in March, Dhoni’s arrival in Chennai marked a pivotal juncture in his preparation for the season opener against Royal Challengers Bangalore, eagerly anticipated by fans filling the stadium.

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All eyes are now on Dhoni’s match fitness as he steps onto the field for the opening fixture. The five-time title-winning captain’s performance will be scrutinized as he navigates the Super Kings’ formidable batting lineup. Dhoni’s preference for a lower order slot didn’t hinder his prowess as a finisher, evidenced by his impressive tally of 104 runs at a staggering strike rate of 184.