A legendary player for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), MS Dhoni, was expected to play his final IPL season in 2024. A strange series of circumstances during CSK’s final league game against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday, May 18, may have temporarily delayed his retirement.
Since CSK was projected to qualify for the playoffs, there was a general expectation going into the game that the legendary wicketkeeper-batter would be able to play his final game at Chepauk Stadium.
But when RCB triumphed and eliminated Chennai, those aspirations were dashed. However, there was a glimmer of hope that Dhoni’s departure could still be postponed amid an odd incident that occurred during the frantic run-chase.
It was necessary to replace the lost ball. An official from Chennai Super Kings
Yash Dayal bowled an incredible 110-meter six in the last over, but the 42-year-old hit it straight out of the ground. Dayal was given a dry new ball that was challenging to score with.
“It was necessary to replace the lost ball. Hitting became challenging for Dayal when he received a drier ball, a top CSK official informed TOI. Dhoni was unable to clear the ropes once more and fulfil his pledge to play his final IPL game at Chepauk as a result of this.
Dhoni entered the changing room after the traditional post-match handshake, clearly upset about the loss. CSK insiders, however, suggest that the renowned cricketer hasn’t made up his mind to retire just yet.
Also read: Watch MS Dhoni’s return to Ranchi following a devastating defeat to the RCB in Bengaluru
“Dhoni has not disclosed his resignation to any CSK employees. According to a close source, he has informed management that he will hold off on making a decision for a few months.
After the 27-run defeat to the Bengaluru-based team, Dhoni also took a plane to return to his hometown of Ranchi the following day. Following Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Rajasthan Royals (RR), and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Royal Challenge Bangalore (RCB) became the fourth team to earn a postseason spot. The 2016 finalists will compete against RR in Ahmedabad on May 22 in Eliminator 1.
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