Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni played a crucial cameo against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) but it wasn’t enough to take his side to progress to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 playoffs. Dhoni hit a monstrous 110m six on the first ball of the final over bowled by Yash Dayal but got out next ball. After Dhoni’s wicket, CSK fell short of the qualification target by 10 runs.
Dhoni punched his bat in frustration when he left the field. There was a hint of emotion when the 42-year-old was sitting in the dugout as CSK got eliminated from the playoff race.
As RCB players celebrated their 27-run win over the defending champions, Dhoni waited on the ground before heading to the dressing room. He shook hands with RCB support staff and walked upstairs. Hence, he was missing during the customary handshake of players of both sides. Dhoni was also seen limping a little when he made his way upstairs.
However, this is not the first time Dhoni did not come out for the customary handshake in the ongoing IPL 2024. In the clash against Gujarat Titans (GT), Dhoni won the 'Striker of the match' award for scoring 26 runs from just 11 balls at a strike rate of 236.36. Gaikwad collected the award on Dhoni’s behalf. Later, he was seen wearing back support belt in the dressing room.
Meanwhile, there are speculations over whether Dhoni has played his last IPL game or not. He has been batting down the order and given the role to take on the bowlers in the slog overs. He played the role well scoring 161 runs at an average of 53.67 and strike rate of 220.55.
CSK coach on Dhoni's retirement
CSK bowling consultant Eric Simons did not five a clear answer on Dhoni’s retirement either. He lauded the former Indian skipper’s commitment.
"Anybody who wants to speculate about his future, it's going to be crazy. MS knows what he is going to do. I have seen him hit the ball from the pre-tournament camps to now as well I have seen him hit it for many years. So, he is playing extremely well and he'll make a decision. But he is a fantastic guy to be around. He's an incredible cricketer and individual in terms of his understanding of cricket and life," Simons said in the post-match press conference.
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