Former CSK batter Ambati Rayudu commented on the extreme fandom that has erupted around MS Dhoni, saying that for some, the Ranchi native is more important than the team.
The Indian Premier League 2024 season for the Chennai Super Kings has been inconsistent thus far. Having won seven of their previous 13 games, they will play their last league stage match on Saturday, May 18, against hosts Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. If CSK wins the match handily, they will guarantee their place in the IPL 2024 Playoffs.
Under new captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, the reigning champs will aim to challenge for yet another knockout with all guns blazing. The Maharashtra native succeeded the seasoned captain MS Dhoni, who guided them to a tie for the most championships in the lucrative tournament. Due to his enormous charm and fan following, there have been many discussions about the 42-year-old’s potential retirement from the game.
“Jadeja and I have seen in the past several years that the crowd goes silent even when you hit a six and a four. When I say this, I genuinely think that CSK supporters are first and foremost MS Dhoni supporters.
Ambati Rayudu stated on Star Sports, “Even Jadeja gets frustrated, but he can’t do anything.
Is this the final Thala Dharisanam?
This season, the experienced wicketkeeper’s fan base has reached unprecedented heights amid rumours that this could be his last tournament appearance. Dhoni has shown remarkable hitting ability despite injury worries, rekindling fan excitement. Opponents have suffered greatly as a result of his devastating contributions in the last overs, as the retired legend routinely hits experienced bowlers for enormous sixes.
Dhoni has batted in ten of CSK’s thirteen games so far, amassing 136 runs at an explosive strike rate of 226.67. He has, however, been hampered by injuries, which frequently need the use of ice packs and strong strapping on his left leg, as evidenced by his on-field presence during and after games. As the injuries from IPL 2024 pile and CSK arranges a victory lap following their season-ending home game against RR, it’s becoming increasingly clear that the 17th edition may be Thala’s last.
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