Batting legend AB de Villiers has expressed strong opinions about MS Dhoni's sudden decision to step down as captain of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) just before the start of IPL 2024. Dhoni handed over the captaincy reins to young opener Ruturaj Gaikwad, a move that has surprised many. This decision comes amidst speculation that the 42-year-old Dhoni might be playing his last season in the IPL. With rumors galore, the timing of the captaincy change feels abrupt and unexpected. However, considering Dhoni's history of making calculated decisions throughout his career, it's not entirely out of character. Interestingly, on March 4, Dhoni posted a cryptic message on social media, hinting at a possible change, which read: "Can't wait for the new season and the new 'role'." Stay tuned!"
Almost two weeks later, the true context of Dhoni's post came to the fore.
I think it's a huge mistake: AB De Villiers on Dhoni stepping down as CSK captain
However, De Villiers sees star wicketkeeper-batter's decision differently. RCB legend thinks it's a huge mistake.
"I think it's a huge mistake. To me, MS Dhoni is five guys in the team as captain. Will that work together? I am not sure. We will have to wait and see. I do think it's a mistake. What happened last time is similar. I feel CSK's all about MS Dhoni's leadership. And his captaincy will be a mistake," AB de Villiers told JioCinema.
However, when the fans were left wondering about Dhoni's sudden move, the newly appointed Gaikwad already knew about the transition.
"Last year itself, Mahi bhai had hinted about captaincy at some point of time. He just hinted that, 'be ready, it shouldn't be a surprise to you'. When we came into the camp, he involved me in some of the match simulation," Gaikwad told IPLT20.com.
MS Dhoni's legacy as a captain in the IPL is nothing short of remarkable. Under his leadership, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) transformed into a dominant force. In his 235 games at the helm for CSK across all competitions, he steered them to two Champions League T20 titles and a staggering five IPL titles in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and most recently, 2023. This consistency is almost unparalleled, with CSK missing out on the top four only twice (2020 and 2022) during Dhoni's reign. Additionally, they reached the IPL finals ten times, including an impressive four consecutive years from 2010 to 2013.
Dhoni's influence extended beyond CSK. When the team faced a two-year suspension from the IPL in 2016 and 2017, he captained the Rising Pune Supergiant for 14 games. Combining his leadership across both teams, Dhoni holds the record for most matches captained in the IPL with a staggering 226, putting him far ahead of his closest competitor, Rohit Sharma (158 games). This incredible statistic speaks volumes about Dhoni's strategic acumen and his ability to inspire his teams to achieve greatness.
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