Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni refused to give a definite answer over his availability for IPL 2022, increasing speculation over his future.
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Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni smartly dodged discussions over his future in the cash-rich league, when asked by Harsha Bhogle on Friday. Dhoni was interacting with the famous commentator, following the Chennai-based franchise’s triumph in the IPL 2021 final against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). CSK have now won the popular tournament on three occasions, taking revenge for the defeat suffered in the final of the 2012 edition against the same opponent.
Bhogle started the discussion by asking Dhoni about his plans for the next edition, which the veteran shrewdly termed as being determined by the BCCI. The prolific commentator had an ace up his sleeve, by terming the matter as something between the cricketer and CSK alone. Dhoni responded by stating that he would take any decision after taking a look at the franchise’s welfare.
“Well it’s not about me playing for CSK, it’s about what is best for CSK. The core group that can carry the team for 10 years. Now we need to see what is best,” he stated as quoted by Cricbuzz.
Harsha attempted one final move in the end by enquiring about the legacy he has left behind at CSK. Dhoni was up for the challenge, finishing with: “Well, I still haven’t left behind.”
The CSK skipper was full of praise for the performances of KKR in the second half of IPL 2021. The Kolkata-based franchise made a stunning comeback after being in deep trouble at the end of the opening phase.
“Before I start talking about CSK, it’s important I talk about KKR. For the position they were in after the first phase, it is very difficult to come back and do what they have done. If any team deserved to win the IPL this year, I feel it was KKR. I think the break helped them. Coming to CSK we shuffled a few players, we used them in different ways. Important was to take the responsibility. I felt we had match-winners game after game. People who were in form they ensured they were scoring throughout the tournament and others were chipping in. Every final is special. Yes we are most consistent team looking at the stats but we have also lost finals,” said Dhoni.
“Not letting the opposition in is something we consciously wanted to improve. I hope CSK in the coming years will be known for that. We don’t really talk a lot. It’s more one on one. Our practice sessions are more like a meeting session also. People are more open that way. The moment you talk in a team room there is a bit of pressure. You can’t deliver without a good team. We also have great individuals as well. I would love to thank the fans. We are in Dubai now. Even when we played in South Africa, we always got good amount of support. Thanks to all of them. If feels like Chepauk, Chennai. Hopefully we will come back to play of the Chennai fans next year,” he added.
