Even after retiring from international cricket, MS Dhoni remains an influential force in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and an indispensable part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). His leadership guided the Super Kings to their fifth IPL title earlier this year, defying speculations that it might be his final season in the league.
Despite expectations of a grand farewell after the 2023 victory, Dhoni, driven by fan support, committed to leading CSK once more in the 2024 season. At a recent event, when questioned about his post-cricket plans, the former Indian skipper highlighted his continued active involvement in IPL cricket and expressed a desire to dedicate more time to the Indian army.
“I have never thought about it. I am still playing cricket. IPL I am still playing. It will be very interesting to see what I end up doing after cricket. I think for sure; I want to spend a bit more time with the Army because last few years I have not been able to do that,” Dhoni stated.
Dhoni bid adieu to international cricket in 2020, with his last appearance in the heartbreaking 2019 World Cup semi-final against New Zealand. Since then, he has steered CSK to two IPL titles, adding to his illustrious record as the joint most successful captain in IPL history with five championship victories.
The 42-year-old, an honorary Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Territorial Army and a qualified paratrooper, aims to allocate more time to the army post his cricketing career. Despite the ambiguity surrounding life after cricket, Dhoni’s enduring presence and influence in the IPL continue to be a testament to his cricketing legacy and leadership prowess.
