Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan feels the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League could potentially be the final season in which legendary wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni appears in the famous yellow jersey of the Chennai Super Kings.
Speaking about Dhoni’s immense value to the franchise, Pathan admitted it is almost impossible to picture CSK or even the IPL without the iconic former captain. He also stressed that Dhoni’s influence goes far beyond what happens on the field.
“CSK is incomplete without MS Dhoni. This season might be the last time we see him in the yellow jersey, and it’s tough to imagine CSK and the IPL without him. This season, Dhoni will play an important role in bringing everyone together. I’m not sure how many games he will play. But his presence in the dressing room will help a lot. Ruturaj Gaikwad is the leader. But as a group, two or three guys are being groomed for the future.
That is where MS Dhoni comes in. I hope he makes a difference,” Pathan told Jio Hotstar.
Pathan further suggested that the CSK management could carefully manage Dhoni’s workload during the season, especially with constant questions surrounding his fitness and batting role. He also believes the franchise would love to send off their stalwart in style by securing another championship.
“Questions about his fitness, batting position, and whether he will play all games will still come up.
The CSK team management will take it step by step. They will definitely look to give him a perfect farewell by lifting their sixth IPL trophy,” he added.
Despite stepping down from captaincy earlier, Dhoni remains one of the most influential figures within the CSK setup and continues to be a key part of the leadership group. Under his captaincy, the franchise lifted five IPL titles and established itself as one of the most successful teams in the tournament’s history.
CSK, however, endured a disappointing campaign last season. The five-time champions finished at the bottom of the points table, managing only four wins from their 14 matches.
Even so, Dhoni’s legacy in the IPL remains unmatched. Across 278 matches and 242 innings, he has scored 5,439 runs at an average of 38.80 and a strike rate of 137.45. His record also includes 24 half-centuries, with an unbeaten 84 standing as his highest score in the competition.
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