Following Chennai Super Kings’ triumphant victory in the IPL 2023 final against Gujarat Titans, MS Dhoni, the CSK captain, provided a significant update regarding his potential retirement.
Dhoni, who now shares the record for the most IPL titles as a captain with Rohit Sharma, expressed that announcing his retirement would be the “easy thing” to do. However, he stated his intention to train for the next nine months and strive to participate in the upcoming season as a “gift” for his fans.
During the post-match presentation, Dhoni acknowledged the timing of his retirement announcement, considering the circumstances. He recognized the immense love and support he has received throughout the year, wherever he has gone.
“Circumstantially if you see this is the best time for me to announce retirement,” said the CSK captain
Dhoni acknowledged that saying a simple “thank you” would be the easy choice, but he wants to put in the hard work over the next nine months and attempt to play at least one more season of the IPL. He emphasized that the final decision would depend on his physical condition and would take around 6-7 months to evaluate.
Dhoni described it as a gesture, a gift to reciprocate the love and affection shown by the fans. While not an easy decision for him, he feels compelled to make the effort due to their overwhelming support.
“It would take 6-7 months to decide. It will be more like a gift from my side. It’s not easy for me but the way they have shown their lose and affection, that’s something that I need to do,” Dhoni added.
Reflecting on the emotional moment, MS Dhoni shared that his eyes were filled with tears, and he needed some time in the dugout to collect himself. He realized the importance of savoring the experience and enjoying the moment.
Dhoni believes that the fans appreciate him for being true to himself, staying grounded, and not pretending to be someone he is not. He values simplicity and keeping things straightforward. Every trophy holds significance, but what makes the IPL special is the need to be prepared for every crucial game.
With MS Dhoni at the helm, the Chennai Super Kings further solidified their remarkable track record in the IPL by securing their fifth title. The victory came in a thrilling final against the Gujarat Titans, with Chennai Super Kings prevailing by five wickets. Throughout the IPL season, Dhoni has been the center of attention, and it was fitting that he concluded the tournament by equalling the record for the most trophies won by a captain, claiming his fifth title.
B Sai Sudharsan played a brilliant knock, scoring 96 runs off just 47 balls, to propel the Gujarat Titans to a total of 214 for four after being put into bat.
Due to rain interrupting play at the beginning of the second innings, the target for the Chennai Super Kings was revised to 171 runs to be chased down in 15 overs. The final, which had to be moved to the reserve day due to heavy rainfall, saw CSK successfully accomplish the required runs on the last ball of the innings. This match could potentially be MS Dhoni’s final appearance in the T20 league, adding further significance to the thrilling conclusion.
