The most expensive player in the 2008 debut season was MS Dhoni. After 15 years, he is still the Chennai Super Kings’ most valued player, embodying all that is thrilling and finest about the T20 franchise league itself. The incredible transformation of MS Dhoni at the age of 41 proves him again as a living legendary.
Even in Chennai, a city where millions of people idolise and celebrate politicians and movie stars, Dhoni stands out, especially during the brief IPL season. The bond between the CSK and its supporters is unique, and they have the embodiment of the CSK in Dhoni. He still possesses incredible talent and leads with uncommon insight. As long as the tall wicketkeeper-captain is on the field, no game is easily lost.
Dhoni declared his departure from international cricket four years ago. Since then, critics and fans alike have debated whether he should stop playing all kinds of cricket. However, Dhoni has been focused on other tasks, such as leading CSK to one more IPL championship to add to the four previously won and inspiring his supporters to believe that he may win five this year to tie the record held by Mumbai Indians.
Dhoni is still the IPL’s most creative captain, providing guidance to young, sometimes anxious players. That was to be expected, of course. He will turn 42 in July, and his leadership skill, along with his tactical acumen and ability to relate to the young players who look up to him, could be enough to earn him a spot on the squad.
Dhoni’s choice to bat as low as No. 8 has drawn attention this season. His teammates were instructed not to have him run as much because he had a knee ailment. He added that his role was to bat in the last overs and score the necessary runs.
He has been successfully doing this. His IPL strike rate is 204; he has faced just 47 balls and scored 96 runs, averaging a six per 4.7 deliveries for a total of 10 sixes.
At No. 8, he made 20 runs in nine balls against the Delhi Capitals, helping his team to a 27-run victory. He blasted fast bowler Mark Wood for sixes off of the first two deliveries he faced to start CSK’s home season. At No. 6, he scored 13 runs off of four balls and two sixes against Punjab Kings.
