In a thrilling IPL 2024 match at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, MS Dhoni’s electrifying entrance and explosive batting significantly propelled Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to a formidable total.

MS Dhoni’s Iconic Entrance

As MS Dhoni made his way to the crease, the Wankhede Stadium erupted in deafening cheers, a testament to his enduring popularity and the high expectations from his fans. At a critical juncture of the game, with CSK needing a strong finish, Dhoni’s presence was a psychological boost for his team.

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Three in three for MSD! Slower length ball gets Dhoni’s inside edge, just a couple. CSK finishes on 206 with that late flourish. Dhoni scored 20 runs off four balls. MS Dhoni became the second batter to complete 5000 runs for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) during the IPL 2024 game against the Mumbai Indians at the Wakhede Stadium on Sunday.

Dhoni’s Explosive Performance

MS Dhoni faced Hardik Pandya in the 20th over with CSK’s score hovering around 180. What followed was a breathtaking display of power-hitting, as Dhoni unleashed three consecutive sixes, each showcasing his skill and timing. These sixes were not just about brute force; they were strategic, exploiting the gaps and weaknesses in the opposition’s field setting.

With this match, Dhoni surpassed 5000 runs for CSK, cementing his legacy as one of the franchise’s greatest players. This milestone added an extra layer of significance to his performance, marking it as a historical moment in IPL history.

Dhoni batting in the 20th over in the IPL
Runs: 756
Balls: 309
SR: 244.66
4s/6s: 51/64

This season: 41 off 12, two fours, five sixes (SR: 341.66)

Dhoni is unbeaten in IPL 2024 so far.

Dhoni vs Hardik in the IPL
Before today: 22 off 27, one dismissal, (SR: 81.48)
Today: 20 off 4 (SR: 500)

Impact on Team Total

These crucial moments took CSK’s score past the 200-run mark, setting a daunting target of 206 for Mumbai Indians. Dhoni’s cameo of 20 runs off just 4 balls highlighted his ability to perform under pressure and significantly impacted the momentum of the game.

This performance has not only reaffirmed Dhoni’s critical role in CSK but also hinted at his continuing importance in the team’s strategy for the rest of the IPL 2024 season. As teams prepare to face CSK, they will undoubtedly have to rethink their approach to bowling to Dhoni.

IPL 2024 is all set to begin on March 22 with an encounter between the defending champions Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore. With just one day remaining for the most cash rich global T20 league to kickstart, it seems Chennai Super Kings have decided to welcome their new captain replacing MS Dhoni.

Ruturaj to replace Dhoni as CSK captain?

Even before any official confirmation from the franchise, the photoshoot of nine captains of the Indian Premier League 2024 today saw a youngster representing CSK in place of Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Ruturaj Gaikwad, the star opening batter from Chennai Super Kings turned up for the official photoshoot.

Shikhar Dhawan, the Punjab Kings captain did not appear for the shoot as well, but his absence was well explained by the official social media platform of the Indian Premier League. In fact with the same tweet, Punjab Kings unveiled their new vice-captain Jitesh Sharma. But no such reason was given for Ruturaj Gaikwad.

The tweet says,

Official confirmation from CSK

Just after the photoshoot images became viral on social media, Chennai Super Kings came up with their official statement. The statement reveals that Dhoni has handed over the responsibility to the youngster who has been a core member of the team since 2019.

MS Dhoni has handed over Chennai Super Kings’ captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the start of TATA IPL 2024. 

Ruturaj has been an integral part of Chennai Super Kings since 2019 and has played 52 matches in IPL during this period.

The team looks forward to the upcoming season.

Former Indian cricket team captain MS Dhoni, widely adored and among the world’s most beloved cricketers, enjoys a massive fan base. Given his limited social media presence, fans are often eager to catch glimpses of his personal life. Dhoni, known for his cool demeanor, is set to lead the Chennai Super Kings in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, adding to the anticipation surrounding him.

Despite his typically calm and gentle nature, a video of MS Dhoni smoking has gone viral on social media. The footage captures him engaged in conversation at an event, with fans speculating that the substance is not a cigarette but rather ‘Hookah.’ While the video’s timeline lacks authentication, viewers point to Dhoni’s hairstyle as a potential clue, suggesting it could be a recent occurrence.

The revelation of MS Dhoni smoking has surprised many fans, as such behaviors are rarely associated with the highly successful former captain of the Indian cricket team. Dhoni holds the distinction of being the only Indian skipper to secure three ICC trophies, establishing himself as one of the most accomplished leaders in Indian cricket history.

Former Australian captain George Bailey, who was Dhoni’s teammate during their time with the Rising Pune Supergiant in the IPL, shared insights into Dhoni’s fondness for ‘hookah.’ Bailey revealed that Dhoni often set up a hookah in his hotel room, creating an open and inclusive environment for teammates, breaking down hierarchical barriers common in many cricket teams.

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As MS Dhoni prepares to return to the cricket field for IPL 2024, speculations arise about it possibly being his last edition of the tournament. Leading the Chennai Super Kings, he aims to clinch a sixth IPL title. Dhoni secured the fifth IPL title for CSK in the previous edition, defeating the Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Despite initially suggesting it might be his final season, he announced his intent to play another season for the sake of his fans.

Following knee surgery after IPL 2023, Dhoni has been diligently working on his fitness during the rehabilitation period. While his international career may not have ended on a high note, he has the opportunity to conclude his IPL journey with another title, providing a fairy-tale ending to his illustrious career.