Bengaluru, India
Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Virat Kohli, the two biggest names in Indian cricket, are set to collide for the last time this season to determine who finishes ahead of each other in the IPL 2024 playoff race. Bengaluru will host the marquee RCB vs CSK clash on Saturday (May 18), with the winner likely to seal the playoff spot. Given their position on the points table, CSK’s chances are prominent, but RCB could also push for a final-four finish with a win.
Despite starting poorly this season, RCB’s win over Delhi Capitals did strengthen their chances of finishing in the top four, but they still have to depend on other team's results to walk through even if they beat CSK in the high-octane clash.
However, with 14 points, CSK are placed in a better position, and if they beat RCB in the away clash, they will make it to playoffs.
Speaking on this match between two South Indian giants, former Aussie legend Tom Moody said it’s still anyone’s game, backing RCB to make the most of their momentum.
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“It's iconic for the entire IPL, truly. You've got two colossal names in cricket here in India and in world cricket-Dhoni and Kohli. They're both dominant figures, leaving a huge legacy wherever they've been. And the interesting thing is anything can still happen on that table,” Moody said to the broadcaster after RCB’s 47-run win over DC.
Although he considers that still nine games are left before the four teams are decided for the playoffs, Moody is not ready to put a finger on either of the two teams yet.
"After the weekend, I was assuming that a couple of results will sort of fall the way they should fall and then we'll have a clear idea who's going to end up in that top four. "Yet, it's still anyone's game. Any team could clinch a spot in that coveted top four," Moody continued.
A cracker of a battle awaits
MS Dhoni vs Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad vs Mohammed Sirag, Rajat Patidar vs Ravindra Jadeja, and much more – such are the rivalries the fans are eager to watch.
With players from both sides performing to the best of their abilities, trying to help their side win crucial games, watching Dhoni go against Kohli would be delightful for fans worldwide.
Remaining uncertain on Dhoni’s IPL future, one may never know if this would be the last time both face off on a cricket field.