<p>Shane Watson had an incredible run in international cricket and also in the IPL. During his IPL career, he played for several franchises and won titles for Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Watson, who ended with&nbsp;3,874 runs and 92 wickets in the IPL played&nbsp;for the MS Dhoni-led CSK franchise in his last three years, from 2018-2020. Watson recalled his CSK days and reminisced a funny incident involving Dhoni.</p>

<p>Speaking on #TheInsiders on JioCinema, Watson revealed, "I remember the first time that I played at CSK and one of the first things MS Dhoni said to the whole group was ‘Whatever we do, we want to win the FairPlay award but now that we’ve got you Watson (Shane Watson) the chance of us winning that has significantly reduced.’ And then, that great man ended up walking onto the field in one game and I was like well….Maybe not!”</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-ms-dhoni-is-not-that-aggressive-but-gautam-gambhir-lauds-csk-star-recalls-rivalry-with-him-708955">IPL 2024: 'MS Dhoni is not that aggressive, but...' - Gautam Gambhir lauds CSK star, recalls rivalry with him</a></strong></p>

<p>The incident Watson was talking about was when Dhoni walked onto the field during CSK's away game versus Rajasthan Royals (RR), at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium in Jaipur during IPL 2019. Chasing 152, Chennai were left with 8 to get off the last two deliveries when the penultimate ball, bowled by Ben Stokes, was a slower full toss above waist height as Mitchell Santner-Ravindra Jadeja ran two and the leg umpire signalled&nbsp;it a no-ball. There was a lot of chaos and drama regarding it being a legitimate delivery or not and just then, Dhoni stormed onto the field to have a heated argument with the umpires. Eventually, it wasn't deemed a no-ball but Santer-Jadeja did the job for CSK with a last-ball six.</p>

<p>Dhoni's reappearance on the field surprised and stunned many, being a huge talking point during the 2019 edition.&nbsp;Dhoni-led CSK went onto play the final of the season, where they lost to Mumbai Indians (MI) by a run. Talking about Watson, he won the IPL title during his first year with CSK (in 2018). In the inaugural edition, in 2008, he was part of the Shane Warne-led RR franchise's victorious run, also winning the Player-of-the-Tournament award.</p>


Shane Watson had an incredible run in international cricket and also in the IPL. During his IPL career, he played for several franchises and won titles for Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

Shane Watson had an incredible run in international cricket and also in the IPL. During his IPL career, he played for several franchises and won titles for Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Watson, who ended with 3,874 runs and 92 wickets in the IPL played for the MS Dhoni-led CSK franchise in his last three years, from 2018-2020. Watson recalled his CSK days and reminisced a funny incident involving Dhoni. Speaking on #TheInsiders on JioCinema, Watson revealed, "I remember the first time that I played at CSK and one of the first things MS Dhoni said to the whole group was ‘Whatever we do, we want to win the FairPlay award but now that we’ve got you Watson (Shane Watson) the chance of us winning that has significantly reduced.’ And then, that great man ended up walking onto the field in one game and I was like well….Maybe not!” Also read: IPL 2024: 'MS Dhoni is not that aggressive, but...' - Gautam Gambhir lauds CSK star, recalls rivalry with him The incident Watson was talking about was when Dhoni walked onto the field during CSK's away game versus Rajasthan Royals (RR), at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium in Jaipur during IPL 2019. Chasing 152, Chennai were left with 8 to get off the last two deliveries when the penultimate ball, bowled by Ben Stokes, was a slower full toss above waist height as Mitchell Santner-Ravindra Jadeja ran two and the leg umpire signalled it a no-ball. There was a lot of chaos and drama regarding it being a legitimate delivery or not and just then, Dhoni stormed onto the field to have a heated argument with the umpires. Eventually, it wasn't deemed a no-ball but Santer-Jadeja did the job for CSK with a last-ball six. Dhoni's reappearance on the field surprised and stunned many, being a huge talking point during the 2019 edition. Dhoni-led CSK went onto play the final of the season, where they lost to Mumbai Indians (MI) by a run. Talking about Watson, he won the IPL title during his first year with CSK (in 2018). In the inaugural edition, in 2008, he was part of the Shane Warne-led RR franchise's victorious run, also winning the Player-of-the-Tournament award.

IPL 2024: 'He ended up walking onto the field' - Shane Watson recalls funny incident with MS Dhoni at CSK

<p>Ahead of match 22 in IPL 2024, where Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will host Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Monday (April 8) in Chennai, Gautam Gambhir -- former KKR skipper and their current mentor -- recalled his IPL rivalry with MS Dhoni. Gambhir heaped praise on the former CSK and Indian captain Dhoni. He went onto add that during his KKR captaincy days, he had to be at his tactical best to overcome Dhoni when the latter was leading the Super Kings. It is to be noted that Gambhir-led KKR won their maiden IPL title in 2012, beating CSK by five wickets in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking on Star Sports, Gambhir stated that both Dhoni and he have been very competitive and always wanted to win. He said, "I wanted to win. I am very clear in my mind. Friends, mutual respect, everything will remain. But when you are in the middle, I am captaining KKR and he is captaining CSK. If you ask him, he will probably give you the same answer. It's about winning. Obviously, MS is the most successful captain India will ever have. I don't think anyone can reach that level - winning 3 ICC trophies."</p>

<p>"But, yes, in the IPL, enjoyed every bit of it because I knew MS had that tactical mindset. He is very good tactically. Knew how to control the spinners, how to set the fields against them and would never give up as well. He batted at No. 6 or 7, and we knew that till he was there, he could finish off the game."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-let-ms-dhoni-remain-a-finisher-clarke-not-in-favour-of-former-csk-captain-batting-up-the-order-708889">IPL 2024: 'Let MS Dhoni remain a finisher' - Clarke not in favour of former CSK captain batting up the order</a></strong></p>

<p>The former Indian opener added, "Even if they needed 20 runs in an over, and MS was in the middle, he could finish off that game. At the same time, I knew I had the bowling attack to challenge anyone in the Super Kings. Knew that tactically had to be better than him in every front because he is not that aggressive on the field, but knew he would not give up. Chennai is that kind of a team, against whom you know you are not winning until the last ball was bowled."</p>

<p>Both Dhoni and Gambhir have been regarded as one of the finest IPL captains. The two have shared a great rivalry during their respective captaincy days. On Monday evening, CSK will host KKR in match 22 of the ongoing edition with Dhoni representing the defending champions as a keeper-batter; having handed over the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad whereas Gambhir will don the mentor's hat as Kolkata will look to remain unbeaten with four successive wins.</p>


Ahead of match 22 in IPL 2024, where Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will host Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Monday (April 8) in Chennai, Gautam Gambhir -- former KKR skipper and their current mentor -- recalled his IPL rivalry with MS Dhoni.

Ahead of match 22 in IPL 2024, where Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will host Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Monday (April 8) in Chennai, Gautam Gambhir -- former KKR skipper and their current mentor -- recalled his IPL rivalry with MS Dhoni. Gambhir heaped praise on the former CSK and Indian captain Dhoni. He went onto add that during his KKR captaincy days, he had to be at his tactical best to overcome Dhoni when the latter was leading the Super Kings. It is to be noted that Gambhir-led KKR won their maiden IPL title in 2012, beating CSK by five wickets in Chennai. Talking on Star Sports, Gambhir stated that both Dhoni and he have been very competitive and always wanted to win. He said, "I wanted to win. I am very clear in my mind. Friends, mutual respect, everything will remain. But when you are in the middle, I am captaining KKR and he is captaining CSK. If you ask him, he will probably give you the same answer. It's about winning. Obviously, MS is the most successful captain India will ever have. I don't think anyone can reach that level - winning 3 ICC trophies." "But, yes, in the IPL, enjoyed every bit of it because I knew MS had that tactical mindset. He is very good tactically. Knew how to control the spinners, how to set the fields against them and would never give up as well. He batted at No. 6 or 7, and we knew that till he was there, he could finish off the game." Also read: IPL 2024: 'Let MS Dhoni remain a finisher' - Clarke not in favour of former CSK captain batting up the order The former Indian opener added, "Even if they needed 20 runs in an over, and MS was in the middle, he could finish off that game. At the same time, I knew I had the bowling attack to challenge anyone in the Super Kings. Knew that tactically had to be better than him in every front because he is not that aggressive on the field, but knew he would not give up. Chennai is that kind of a team, against whom you know you are not winning until the last ball was bowled." Both Dhoni and Gambhir have been regarded as one of the finest IPL captains. The two have shared a great rivalry during their respective captaincy days. On Monday evening, CSK will host KKR in match 22 of the ongoing edition with Dhoni representing the defending champions as a keeper-batter; having handed over the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad whereas Gambhir will don the mentor's hat as Kolkata will look to remain unbeaten with four successive wins.

IPL 2024: ‘MS Dhoni is not that aggressive, but...’ - Gautam Gambhir lauds CSK star, recalls rivalry with him

<p>Former Australian captain Michael Clarke feels Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star MS Dhoni should not be promoted up&nbsp;the batting order in IPL 2024&nbsp;. Since Dhoni's 16-ball 37* versus Delhi Capitals (DC), in match 13, where he kept Chennai in with a slight chance in their unsuccessful chase in Visakhapatnam, many former cricketers feel that the Yellow Army should make use of Dhoni's form and send him up the order. However, Clarke heaped praise on Dhoni, calling him the 'best finisher the game has ever seen', but stated that the veteran should bat at No. 8.</p>

<p>In a panel discussion on Star Sports, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar stated, "Which means he will have to come ahead of somebody like a Daryl Mitchell, Ravindra Jadeja or Shivam Dube. Is that the right call? I Wonder. May be not. I want him to replicate what he did last season. Few balls and maximum impact. And even in that match, when he got 30-odd, he got it in 16-17 balls. MS Dhoni’s strengths lies in his wicketkeeping, being a guide to Ruturaj and his cameos. Sending him at No. 3 or No. 4 may not be such a great idea."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-csk-vs-kkr-match-preview-chennai-aim-to-wrest-losing-streaking-against-kolkata-juggernaut-at-home-708829">IPL 2024, CSK vs KKR Match Preview: Chennai aim to wrest losing streak against Kolkata juggernaut at home</a></strong></p>

<p>Clarke joined in and agreed with Manjrekar by saying, "You are spot on, Sanjay. He doesn’t need to. That’s never been his role in any format of the game. There might have been occasions when he goes up the order. But, generally, he is a finisher. He is probably the best finisher the game has ever seen. So he doesn’t have to change that. The other thing about having MS Dhoni in your team, that should give the players in front of him feel confident, and maybe take a few risks a little bit earlier. He has got enough jobs, and he has done it for a long period of time. It’s time for other players to step up."</p>

<p>Dhoni-starrer CSK are at the fourth spot in the points table, with two wins and equal number of losses. Ruturaj Gaikwad-led Chennai will host Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who are unbeaten in the ongoing edition, in match 22 on Monday evening (April 8). The defending champions will be looking to return to winning ways versus Shreyas Iyer &amp; Co.</p>


Former Australian captain Michael Clarke feels Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star MS Dhoni should not be promoted up the batting order in IPL 2024 . Since Dhoni's 16-ball 37* versus Delhi Capitals (DC), in match 13, where he kept Chennai in with a slight chance in their unsuccessful chase in Visakhapatnam, many former cricketers feel that the Yellow Army should make use of Dhoni's form and send him up the order.

Former Australian captain Michael Clarke feels Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star MS Dhoni should not be promoted up the batting order in IPL 2024 . Since Dhoni's 16-ball 37* versus Delhi Capitals (DC), in match 13, where he kept Chennai in with a slight chance in their unsuccessful chase in Visakhapatnam, many former cricketers feel that the Yellow Army should make use of Dhoni's form and send him up the order. However, Clarke heaped praise on Dhoni, calling him the 'best finisher the game has ever seen', but stated that the veteran should bat at No. 8. In a panel discussion on Star Sports, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar stated, "Which means he will have to come ahead of somebody like a Daryl Mitchell, Ravindra Jadeja or Shivam Dube. Is that the right call? I Wonder. May be not. I want him to replicate what he did last season. Few balls and maximum impact. And even in that match, when he got 30-odd, he got it in 16-17 balls. MS Dhoni’s strengths lies in his wicketkeeping, being a guide to Ruturaj and his cameos. Sending him at No. 3 or No. 4 may not be such a great idea." Also read: IPL 2024, CSK vs KKR Match Preview: Chennai aim to wrest losing streak against Kolkata juggernaut at home Clarke joined in and agreed with Manjrekar by saying, "You are spot on, Sanjay. He doesn’t need to. That’s never been his role in any format of the game. There might have been occasions when he goes up the order. But, generally, he is a finisher. He is probably the best finisher the game has ever seen. So he doesn’t have to change that. The other thing about having MS Dhoni in your team, that should give the players in front of him feel confident, and maybe take a few risks a little bit earlier. He has got enough jobs, and he has done it for a long period of time. It’s time for other players to step up." Dhoni-starrer CSK are at the fourth spot in the points table, with two wins and equal number of losses. Ruturaj Gaikwad-led Chennai will host Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who are unbeaten in the ongoing edition, in match 22 on Monday evening (April 8). The defending champions will be looking to return to winning ways versus Shreyas Iyer & Co.

IPL 2024: 'Let MS Dhoni remain a finisher' - Clarke not in favour of former CSK captain batting up the order

<p>Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad is facing a bit of heat for his captaincy decisions during the loss against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 5 in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The bone of contention is MS Dhoni's batting order as he faced just three balls in the innings. Some of the former players and experts have criticised Gaikwad of sending Dhoni's in the last over.</p>

<p>"On the back of what he did in the last game, I'm amazed he did not come out to bat earlier. I can't understand why he's been out there for just three balls," said former England skipper Michael Vaughan while talking to Cricbuzz.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-shane-watson-warns-against-pushing-lsg-speedster-mayank-yadav-into-test-cricket-heres-why-708347">IPL 2024: Shane Watson warns against pushing LSG speedster Mayank Yadav into Test cricket. Here's Why</a></p>

<p>Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan also questioned the decision to send Dhoni down the order and tweeted: "Considering off cutter planning in to the pitch and match up against Bhuvi and Unadkat, Dhoni the right hand batsman should have batted up the order in this match vs SRH."&nbsp;</p>

<p>CSK&nbsp;were nicely placed at 119/3 in 13.4 overs after Shivam Dube's dismissal who scored a brilliant 24-ball 45. In the next 6.2 overs, however, they could manage only 46 runs and posted a below par total of 165/6 in 20 overs.</p>

<p>Speaking on the loss, CSK's second this season, skipper Gaikwad said: "I think to be honest, it was a slow pitch, They bowled well in the back-end, kept the game in control and didn't allow us to capitalize. It was a black soil pitch, so we expected the pitch to be slower, but it became slower and slower, and they used the boundary size well."</p>

<p>SRH got to a flyer while chasing a modest 166. The score might have been a bit below par but CSK bowlers did make it hard for SRH due to a slow and gripping pitch. It was Abhishek Sharma's innings of 37 in 12 balls which eventually proved helpful as SRH chased down the target in 18.1 overs with six wickets in hand.</p>


Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad is facing a bit of heat for his captaincy decisions during the loss against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 5 in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad is facing a bit of heat for his captaincy decisions during the loss against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 5 in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The bone of contention is MS Dhoni's batting order as he faced just three balls in the innings. Some of the former players and experts have criticised Gaikwad of sending Dhoni's in the last over. "On the back of what he did in the last game, I'm amazed he did not come out to bat earlier. I can't understand why he's been out there for just three balls," said former England skipper Michael Vaughan while talking to Cricbuzz. Also Read: IPL 2024: Shane Watson warns against pushing LSG speedster Mayank Yadav into Test cricket. Here's Why Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan also questioned the decision to send Dhoni down the order and tweeted: "Considering off cutter planning in to the pitch and match up against Bhuvi and Unadkat, Dhoni the right hand batsman should have batted up the order in this match vs SRH." CSK were nicely placed at 119/3 in 13.4 overs after Shivam Dube's dismissal who scored a brilliant 24-ball 45. In the next 6.2 overs, however, they could manage only 46 runs and posted a below par total of 165/6 in 20 overs. Speaking on the loss, CSK's second this season, skipper Gaikwad said: "I think to be honest, it was a slow pitch, They bowled well in the back-end, kept the game in control and didn't allow us to capitalize. It was a black soil pitch, so we expected the pitch to be slower, but it became slower and slower, and they used the boundary size well." SRH got to a flyer while chasing a modest 166. The score might have been a bit below par but CSK bowlers did make it hard for SRH due to a slow and gripping pitch. It was Abhishek Sharma's innings of 37 in 12 balls which eventually proved helpful as SRH chased down the target in 18.1 overs with six wickets in hand.

IPL 2024: CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad faces heat for MS Dhoni's batting order in loss vs SRH

<p>Former Australia cricketer Tom Moody has lavished huge praise on Pat Cummins after the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) beat Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by six wickets in match 18 of IPL 2024 on Friday (April 5) in Hyderabad. Cummins-led SRH opted to bowl first and restricted Ruturaj Gaikwad &amp; Co. for 165 for 5&nbsp;before chasing down a moderate 166 in 18.1 overs, courtesy of Abhishek Sharma's 12-ball 37 and Aiden Markram's 50.</p>

<p>Moody lauded Cummins who&nbsp;doesn't shy away from resorting to unorthodox&nbsp;tactics, which one may not think at first. Prior to IPL 2024, Cummins had no experience of captaining a T20 team across any level, however, Moody believes the Australian Test and ODI skipper has cracked the code to lead well&nbsp;in the shortest format as well. The former cricketer compared him with legendary captain MS Dhoni.</p>

<h2><strong>'He is a bit like MS Dhoni'</strong></h2>

<p>After SRH's win over CSK, Moody told ESPNCricinfo, "The one thing I like about Cummins is he is a bit like MS Dhoni. He is prepared to make a decision that most people don’t think about, but makes you feel like ‘Why didn’t I think about that?’ Like the Abhishek Sharma over. It was quite an odd decision when you look at the other options they could have gone with."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/srh-vs-csk-would-you-have-done-it-to-kohli-kaif-questions-cummins-for-withdrawing-appeal-vs-jadeja-708253">SRH vs CSK: Would you have done it to Kohli? Kaif questions Cummins for withdrawing appeal vs Jadeja</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, "You have arguably the best new ball bowler in IPL history in Bhuvneshwar Kumar. You have got an off spinner against left-handers. You think Markram would be another one. There was plenty of other ways he could have gone. But he committed to that and it looked like from the get go, he convinced&nbsp;himself that it was the right decision."</p>

<p>Cummins rotated his bowlers smartly on a sluggish surface at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad versus a famed Chennai batting lineup. He started with Abhishek Sharma bowling the first over of the match, after Chennai were asked to bat first, and used as many as seven bowlers -- including himself -- to restrict CSK to 165-5 before SRH's power-hitters propelled them to a six-wicket win.</p>

<p>Cummins-led SRH are at the fifth spot, with two wins and equal number of losses, whereas CSK remain at the third spot despite two successive defeats.</p>


Former Australia cricketer Tom Moody has lavished huge praise on Pat Cummins after the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) beat Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by six wickets in match 18 of IPL 2024 on Friday (April 5) in Hyderabad.

Former Australia cricketer Tom Moody has lavished huge praise on Pat Cummins after the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) beat Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by six wickets in match 18 of IPL 2024 on Friday (April 5) in Hyderabad. Cummins-led SRH opted to bowl first and restricted Ruturaj Gaikwad & Co. for 165 for 5 before chasing down a moderate 166 in 18.1 overs, courtesy of Abhishek Sharma's 12-ball 37 and Aiden Markram's 50. Moody lauded Cummins who doesn't shy away from resorting to unorthodox tactics, which one may not think at first. Prior to IPL 2024, Cummins had no experience of captaining a T20 team across any level, however, Moody believes the Australian Test and ODI skipper has cracked the code to lead well in the shortest format as well. The former cricketer compared him with legendary captain MS Dhoni. 'He is a bit like MS Dhoni' After SRH's win over CSK, Moody told ESPNCricinfo, "The one thing I like about Cummins is he is a bit like MS Dhoni. He is prepared to make a decision that most people don’t think about, but makes you feel like ‘Why didn’t I think about that?’ Like the Abhishek Sharma over. It was quite an odd decision when you look at the other options they could have gone with." Also read: SRH vs CSK: Would you have done it to Kohli? Kaif questions Cummins for withdrawing appeal vs Jadeja He added, "You have arguably the best new ball bowler in IPL history in Bhuvneshwar Kumar. You have got an off spinner against left-handers. You think Markram would be another one. There was plenty of other ways he could have gone. But he committed to that and it looked like from the get go, he convinced himself that it was the right decision." Cummins rotated his bowlers smartly on a sluggish surface at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad versus a famed Chennai batting lineup. He started with Abhishek Sharma bowling the first over of the match, after Chennai were asked to bat first, and used as many as seven bowlers -- including himself -- to restrict CSK to 165-5 before SRH's power-hitters propelled them to a six-wicket win. Cummins-led SRH are at the fifth spot, with two wins and equal number of losses, whereas CSK remain at the third spot despite two successive defeats.

IPL 2024: Pat Cummins is a bit like MS Dhoni - Tom Moody hails SRH captain after CSK clash

<p>The Indian Premier League (IPL) is all set for a blockbuster clash on Friday (April 5) as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) take on Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. The clash which will see some of the greats of the game go head-to-head will feature SRH skipper Pat Cummins and&nbsp;MS Dhoni among others.</p>

<h2><strong>Cummins speaks on Dhoni</strong></h2>

<p>"My main job as a captain is to get the best out of our guys, so obviously, looking at the opposition a little bit and seeing what they're doing, but I don't think I'm going to try and outsmart someone like MSD," Cummins said to Star Sports.</p>

<p>"Look, whatever team you are playing for, whether you are a captain or a player, there's always a huge expectation. We know how passionate our fans are. It's great. Nothing new, we are just going to try our best," he added.</p>

<p>The South Indian derby will be a perfect opportunity for SRH to bounce back as they look to gain a winning momentum. SRH have only won against&nbsp;Mumbai Indians by 31 runs, out of the three matches played so far.</p>

<p>Friday’s match will present a perfect opportunity for SRH to get better of their South Indian rivals. In 19 previous matches against CSK, SRH have won only once with their last win coming in the 2022 season.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sebastian-is-flirting-mercedes-boss-toto-wolff-on-vettel-replacing-lewis-hamilton-next-season-708075">'Sebastian is flirting...': Mercedes boss Toto Wolff on Vettel replacing Lewis Hamilton next season</a></p>

<p>At the time of writing, SRH had won the toss and elected to field first in Hyderabad. Both the teams will look to&nbsp;entertain the crowd with high scores.</p>

<p>Chennai so far have lost only once against Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2024 and have seen a positive start under the leadership of Ruturaj Gaikwad.</p>

<p><strong>Chennai Super Kings&nbsp;(Playing XI):</strong> Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Rachin Ravindra, Ajinkya Rahane, Moeen Ali, Daryl Mitchell, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni(w), Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Maheesh Theekshana</p>

<p><strong>Sunrisers Hyderabad&nbsp;(Playing XI):</strong> Abhishek Sharma, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Abdul Samad, Nitish Reddy, Shahbaz Ahmed, Pat Cummins(c), Jaydev Unadkat, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mayank Markande, T Natarajan</p>


The Indian Premier League (IPL) is all set for a blockbuster clash on Friday (April 5) as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) take on Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is all set for a blockbuster clash on Friday (April 5) as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) take on Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. The clash which will see some of the greats of the game go head-to-head will feature SRH skipper Pat Cummins and MS Dhoni among others. Cummins speaks on Dhoni "My main job as a captain is to get the best out of our guys, so obviously, looking at the opposition a little bit and seeing what they're doing, but I don't think I'm going to try and outsmart someone like MSD," Cummins said to Star Sports. "Look, whatever team you are playing for, whether you are a captain or a player, there's always a huge expectation. We know how passionate our fans are. It's great. Nothing new, we are just going to try our best," he added. The South Indian derby will be a perfect opportunity for SRH to bounce back as they look to gain a winning momentum. SRH have only won against Mumbai Indians by 31 runs, out of the three matches played so far. Friday’s match will present a perfect opportunity for SRH to get better of their South Indian rivals. In 19 previous matches against CSK, SRH have won only once with their last win coming in the 2022 season. ALSO READ | 'Sebastian is flirting...': Mercedes boss Toto Wolff on Vettel replacing Lewis Hamilton next season At the time of writing, SRH had won the toss and elected to field first in Hyderabad. Both the teams will look to entertain the crowd with high scores. Chennai so far have lost only once against Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2024 and have seen a positive start under the leadership of Ruturaj Gaikwad. Chennai Super Kings (Playing XI): Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Rachin Ravindra, Ajinkya Rahane, Moeen Ali, Daryl Mitchell, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni(w), Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Maheesh Theekshana Sunrisers Hyderabad (Playing XI): Abhishek Sharma, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Abdul Samad, Nitish Reddy, Shahbaz Ahmed, Pat Cummins(c), Jaydev Unadkat, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mayank Markande, T Natarajan

IPL 2024: Pat Cummins ready for MS Dhoni challenge in SRH vs CSK contest in Hyderabad

<p>Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener Shane Watson is hoping&nbsp;that the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led unit will learn from their mistakes during their 20-run loss to Delhi Capitals (DC) and return to winning ways when they face hosts Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in match 18 of IPL 2024, on Friday (April 5), in Hyderabad. Watson feels CSK will not be hesitant to promote MS Dhoni up the order after the veteran made a brilliant 16-ball 37* in his side's unsuccessful 192-run chase versus Delhi in match 13, on March 31.</p>

<p>Chennai were in the hunt during their 192-run chase versus Rishabh Pant &amp; Co. after Ajinkya Rahane gave them a platform with a 30-ball 45. However, the asking rate kept going up and ordinary knocks from Shivam Dube and Ravindra Jadeja as well as Sameer Rizvi's golden duck dented them before Dhoni's blistering cameo. Nonetheless, it was not enough for them to win the game as they ended with 171-6. Following his knock, many believed Chennai missed a trick by sending Dhoni at No. 8, when they needed 72 off 23 balls.</p>

<p>Watson, however, believes that the Yellow Army is one side that&nbsp;learns&nbsp;from its&nbsp;mistakes instantly and, hence, will use Dhoni up the order if the situation arises going ahead after the DC clash.</p>

<p>Ahead of CSK's away game versus SRH, Watson said, "CSK will be learning from the little things that went wrong against Delhi in their last game and make the most of the things that went incredibly well. One thing was Dhoni, the way he batted, coming in late in the game, which will mean that hopefully, he'll move up the order when an opportunity presents itself, because he batted as well as I've seen him for a long time."</p>

<p>"The lessons that CSK learned, that's the reason why they've been so successful for so long because they'll find out little elements they need to get better, they need to execute better and where they went wrong and they'll learn from that. So they'll be ready to go against Hyderabad," he added.</p>

<p>Dhoni made an impact with the bat in IPL 2023, with useful cameos, and has started in a similar manner this season.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-match-17-sunrisers-hyderabad-vs-chennai-super-kings-match-preview-and-result-prediction-707899">IPL 2024, Match 18: Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings – Match preview and result prediction</a></strong></p>

<p>Chennai are in the top 4 at the moment, occupying the third spot and will look to return to winning ways against Hyderabad, against whom they enjoy a solid 14-5 head-to-head record. However, they won't have it easy against Pat Cummins &amp; Co. who started their home run in IPL 2024 by registering the highest team total, 277/3, last week (versus Mumbai Indians).</p>

<p>SRH, on the other hand, are in the seventh spot with one win from three games. They lost their last encounter to Gujarat Titans (GT) by seven wickets.</p>


Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener Shane Watson is hoping that the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led unit will learn from their mistakes during their 20-run loss to Delhi Capitals (DC) and return to winning ways when they face hosts Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in match 18 of IPL 2024, on Friday (April 5), in Hyderabad.

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener Shane Watson is hoping that the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led unit will learn from their mistakes during their 20-run loss to Delhi Capitals (DC) and return to winning ways when they face hosts Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in match 18 of IPL 2024, on Friday (April 5), in Hyderabad. Watson feels CSK will not be hesitant to promote MS Dhoni up the order after the veteran made a brilliant 16-ball 37* in his side's unsuccessful 192-run chase versus Delhi in match 13, on March 31. Chennai were in the hunt during their 192-run chase versus Rishabh Pant & Co. after Ajinkya Rahane gave them a platform with a 30-ball 45. However, the asking rate kept going up and ordinary knocks from Shivam Dube and Ravindra Jadeja as well as Sameer Rizvi's golden duck dented them before Dhoni's blistering cameo. Nonetheless, it was not enough for them to win the game as they ended with 171-6. Following his knock, many believed Chennai missed a trick by sending Dhoni at No. 8, when they needed 72 off 23 balls. Watson, however, believes that the Yellow Army is one side that learns from its mistakes instantly and, hence, will use Dhoni up the order if the situation arises going ahead after the DC clash. Ahead of CSK's away game versus SRH, Watson said, "CSK will be learning from the little things that went wrong against Delhi in their last game and make the most of the things that went incredibly well. One thing was Dhoni, the way he batted, coming in late in the game, which will mean that hopefully, he'll move up the order when an opportunity presents itself, because he batted as well as I've seen him for a long time." "The lessons that CSK learned, that's the reason why they've been so successful for so long because they'll find out little elements they need to get better, they need to execute better and where they went wrong and they'll learn from that. So they'll be ready to go against Hyderabad," he added. Dhoni made an impact with the bat in IPL 2023, with useful cameos, and has started in a similar manner this season. Also read: IPL 2024, Match 18: Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings – Match preview and result prediction Chennai are in the top 4 at the moment, occupying the third spot and will look to return to winning ways against Hyderabad, against whom they enjoy a solid 14-5 head-to-head record. However, they won't have it easy against Pat Cummins & Co. who started their home run in IPL 2024 by registering the highest team total, 277/3, last week (versus Mumbai Indians). SRH, on the other hand, are in the seventh spot with one win from three games. They lost their last encounter to Gujarat Titans (GT) by seven wickets.

IPL 2024: 'Hopefully he'll move up' - Shane Watson backs MS Dhoni to bat higher for CSK after cameo vs DC

IN PICS | IPL 2024: Teams with most IPL matches

<p>The Indian Cricket Team and its countless fans worldwide realised their dream of winning the 50-over World Cup for the second time in history on this day (April 2nd) in 2011. The Men in Blue, led by MS Dhoni, beat Sri Lanka in the all-important final by six wickets at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai to clinch the ultimate glory. Zaheer Khan, Gautam Gambhir and skipper MS Dhoni starred with their&nbsp;performances in the summit clash.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Throwback to a very special day! 🏆<br />
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🗓️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnThisDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OnThisDay</a> in 2011, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> won the ODI World Cup for the second time 👏👏 <a href="https://t.co/inyLTWKcrY">pic.twitter.com/inyLTWKcrY</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1775002717192331470?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The star cast of 2011 was filled with match-winners, from the legendary openers (Sehwag and Sachin) to the man of the tournament Yuvraj Singh, to the unsung heroes (Gautam, Raina and Yusuf), everyone contributed to India’s success on the top stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-riyan-parag-reaps-rewards-at-no-4-for-rajasthan-royals-continues-impressive-showing-from-smat-706727">IPL 2024: Riyan Parag reaps rewards at No. 4 for Rajasthan Royals, continues impressive showing from SMAT</a></strong></p>

<p>Even the bowlers were exceptional throughout; led by Zaheer, the pace attack looked in their element. Ashish Nehra and Munaf Patel made inroads during crucial games, including the high-octane semis clash against Pakistan in Mohali. Harbhajan Singh and Piyush Chawla made up the specialist spin attack, with others chipping in with wickets, striking a balance like never before.</p>

<h2>The Big Day – The Final!</h2>

<p>India bowled first in the grand finale against perhaps the most sort-after team in the tournament – Sri Lanka.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zaheer was on song on the day it mattered the most, bowling tight lines, resulting in the early breakthrough of Upul Tharanga. Dilshan and Captain Kumar Sangakkara stitched a partnership but Harbhajan and Yuvraj removed both, respectively.</p>

<p>Despite the Lankans losing wickets regularly, Mahela Jayawardene, alongside Kulasekara and Perera, ensured Sri Lanka posted a mammoth total of 274-6 on the board, with Mahela completing a hundred on the D-Day.</p>

<h3>Tough start but India got through</h3>

<p>India got off to the worst possible start, losing attacking batter Sehwag on the second ball for a duck, with Sachin following him soon after inside the Powerplay. Two Delhi boys, Kohli and Gambhir bailed India out of trouble, stitching an 83-run stand for the third wicket before Dilshan sent Kohli packing.</p>

<p>However, what favoured India that day was the management’s call to send MS Dhoni ahead of Yuvraj Singh - India’s best bet at number four in the World Cup. That move paid dividends as Dhoni and Gautam put India in the driver’s seat. Though Gautam missed out on scoring a hundred, getting bowled on 97 to Perera, Dhoni remained unbeaten on 91 to see India through in the run-chase.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The anchor of India’s innings ⚓️<a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GautamGambhir</a> saved his best for the 2011 final. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC11Rewind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC11Rewind</a> <a href="https://t.co/lLL3bij1nM">pic.twitter.com/lLL3bij1nM</a></p>
— ICC Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1377947024902008834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>His six off Kulasekara to win the match and the World Cup is cherished to date as one of the game's greatest moments.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">INDIA WON THE WORLD CUP ON THIS DAY IN 2011..!!!! 🇮🇳<br />
<br />
Dream for 28 years ended under the leadership of MS Dhoni - the winning six will be remembered forever from the Captain - A team effort through the tournament with Dhoni &amp; Gambhir heroes in final. 🏆<a href="https://t.co/qZdPGHHfl2">pic.twitter.com/qZdPGHHfl2</a></p>
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1774866643036033468?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, it’s been 13 years to the day when India clinched the ultimate glory, and several players from that squad recall sitting on top of the world.</p>

<p>Check out some posts -</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thirteen years ago, my childhood dream turned into reality. Forever grateful for the memories, the team, and the incredible support of over a billion people. <a href="https://t.co/RvUuzuGqhQ">pic.twitter.com/RvUuzuGqhQ</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1775045483897237545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">2-4-2011 Day to remember .. 🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳 Worldcup winners <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Grateful?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Grateful</a> <a href="https://t.co/aocMNyzSWC">pic.twitter.com/aocMNyzSWC</a></p>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1775050795714818413?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This day 2nd April never get old, every year this day refresh our memories. Proud to be a part of such big moment. Missing you all my teammates.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/worldcup2011?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#worldcup2011</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://t.co/qawgYteMnn">pic.twitter.com/qawgYteMnn</a></p>
— Munaf Patel (@munafpa99881129) <a href="https://twitter.com/munafpa99881129/status/1775039076044816398?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Still get goosebumps thinking about that historic moment in 2011 when we lifted the World Cup 🏆 Incredible memories with an amazing team! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/2011WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#2011WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/af3l6llJ1Z">pic.twitter.com/af3l6llJ1Z</a></p>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1774993387449733130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Reliving this feeling ❤️🇮🇳🏆<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC2011?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC2011</a> <a href="https://t.co/zT9C0FSusg">pic.twitter.com/zT9C0FSusg</a></p>
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1775014847497073050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnThisDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OnThisDay</a> in 2011, our Men in Blue made history by clinching the ICC Cricket World Cup for the 2nd time! 🏆 Led by the legendary <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a>, with gritty innings from <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GautamGambhir</a>, quality batting by <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a>, heroic all-round displays by <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YUVSTRONG12</a> and the entire squad… <a href="https://t.co/EDPFLrXhQc">pic.twitter.com/EDPFLrXhQc</a></p>
— Jay Shah (@JayShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah/status/1775043664861123023?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Indian Cricket Team and its countless fans worldwide realised their dream of winning the 50-over World Cup for the second time in history on this day (April 2nd) in 2011.

The Indian Cricket Team and its countless fans worldwide realised their dream of winning the 50-over World Cup for the second time in history on this day (April 2nd) in 2011. The Men in Blue, led by MS Dhoni, beat Sri Lanka in the all-important final by six wickets at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai to clinch the ultimate glory. Zaheer Khan, Gautam Gambhir and skipper MS Dhoni starred with their performances in the summit clash. Throwback to a very special day! 🏆 🗓️ #OnThisDay in 2011, #TeamIndia won the ODI World Cup for the second time 👏👏 pic.twitter.com/inyLTWKcrY — BCCI (@BCCI) April 2, 2024 × The star cast of 2011 was filled with match-winners, from the legendary openers (Sehwag and Sachin) to the man of the tournament Yuvraj Singh, to the unsung heroes (Gautam, Raina and Yusuf), everyone contributed to India’s success on the top stage. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: Riyan Parag reaps rewards at No. 4 for Rajasthan Royals, continues impressive showing from SMAT Even the bowlers were exceptional throughout; led by Zaheer, the pace attack looked in their element. Ashish Nehra and Munaf Patel made inroads during crucial games, including the high-octane semis clash against Pakistan in Mohali. Harbhajan Singh and Piyush Chawla made up the specialist spin attack, with others chipping in with wickets, striking a balance like never before. The Big Day – The Final! India bowled first in the grand finale against perhaps the most sort-after team in the tournament – Sri Lanka. Zaheer was on song on the day it mattered the most, bowling tight lines, resulting in the early breakthrough of Upul Tharanga. Dilshan and Captain Kumar Sangakkara stitched a partnership but Harbhajan and Yuvraj removed both, respectively. Despite the Lankans losing wickets regularly, Mahela Jayawardene, alongside Kulasekara and Perera, ensured Sri Lanka posted a mammoth total of 274-6 on the board, with Mahela completing a hundred on the D-Day. Tough start but India got through India got off to the worst possible start, losing attacking batter Sehwag on the second ball for a duck, with Sachin following him soon after inside the Powerplay. Two Delhi boys, Kohli and Gambhir bailed India out of trouble, stitching an 83-run stand for the third wicket before Dilshan sent Kohli packing. However, what favoured India that day was the management’s call to send MS Dhoni ahead of Yuvraj Singh - India’s best bet at number four in the World Cup. That move paid dividends as Dhoni and Gautam put India in the driver’s seat. Though Gautam missed out on scoring a hundred, getting bowled on 97 to Perera, Dhoni remained unbeaten on 91 to see India through in the run-chase. The anchor of India’s innings ⚓️@GautamGambhir saved his best for the 2011 final. #CWC11Rewind pic.twitter.com/lLL3bij1nM — ICC Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) April 2, 2021 × His six off Kulasekara to win the match and the World Cup is cherished to date as one of the game's greatest moments. INDIA WON THE WORLD CUP ON THIS DAY IN 2011..!!!! 🇮🇳 Dream for 28 years ended under the leadership of MS Dhoni - the winning six will be remembered forever from the Captain - A team effort through the tournament with Dhoni & Gambhir heroes in final. 🏆pic.twitter.com/qZdPGHHfl2 — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) April 1, 2024 × Meanwhile, it’s been 13 years to the day when India clinched the ultimate glory, and several players from that squad recall sitting on top of the world. Check out some posts - Thirteen years ago, my childhood dream turned into reality. Forever grateful for the memories, the team, and the incredible support of over a billion people. pic.twitter.com/RvUuzuGqhQ — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) April 2, 2024 × 2-4-2011 Day to remember .. 🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳 Worldcup winners #Grateful pic.twitter.com/aocMNyzSWC — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) April 2, 2024 × This day 2nd April never get old, every year this day refresh our memories. Proud to be a part of such big moment. Missing you all my teammates.#worldcup2011 @BCCI pic.twitter.com/qawgYteMnn — Munaf Patel (@munafpa99881129) April 2, 2024 × Still get goosebumps thinking about that historic moment in 2011 when we lifted the World Cup 🏆 Incredible memories with an amazing team! #2011WorldCup #TeamIndia 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/af3l6llJ1Z — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) April 2, 2024 × Reliving this feeling ❤️🇮🇳🏆#CWC2011 pic.twitter.com/zT9C0FSusg — Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) April 2, 2024 × #OnThisDay in 2011, our Men in Blue made history by clinching the ICC Cricket World Cup for the 2nd time! 🏆 Led by the legendary @msdhoni, with gritty innings from @GautamGambhir, quality batting by @sachin_rt, heroic all-round displays by @YUVSTRONG12 and the entire squad… pic.twitter.com/EDPFLrXhQc — Jay Shah (@JayShah) April 2, 2024 ×

OTD in 2011: ‘India lifts World Cup’ – Relive the moment MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue claimed ultimate glory

<p>MS Dhoni's 16-ball 37-run cameo, laced with four boundaries and three sixes against Delhi Capitals on Sunday (Mar 31) has led to suggestions from former Australia and India players that the veteran batter should come up the order for Chennai Super Kings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australian pacer Brett Lee was the first one to make the case for Dhoni to be pushed up the order by the CSK management.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He was on tonight, he was not rusty. I do want more from him in terms of batting. Get yourself up the order. He is outstanding, his brain is still nice and sharp, CSK please get MS Dhoni up the order," the former Aussie fast bowler told the host streamer.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Lee's former teammate Shane Watson waxed lyrical about Dhoni's performance and his unreal shot-making.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"With MS Dhoni in this type of form - this is exactly what you want from him. His power and the skill he has got under pressure when the bowlers are really scrambling to execute, his ability to win a game out of nowhere we have seen so many times through his career," said Watson.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Some of his shots he played tonight, that's as good a shot I have ever seen him play. The one over cover is one of the harder shots to play, but he is still doing it," the former Australia all-rounder added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-watch-csk-batter-ms-dhonis-power-hitting-in-death-overs-against-dc-thrills-crowd-706463"><strong>WATCH | CSK batter MS Dhoni's power hitting in death overs against DC thrills crowd</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Kaif echoes similar sentiment&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Cricketer-turned-pundit Mohammed Kaif echoed a similar sentiment and said Dhoni did not look like a player who had not played cricket in the last year or so.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It didn't seem like he wasn't playing cricket regularly. He hasn't played Ranji or club cricket matches or is he playing for India. He is just playing IPL to IPL," said Kaif.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But the way he batted today, this No.8 isn't his spot. He should be playing at No.4 or No.5. Come in and playing a few deliveries but Dhoni is batting way too low at No.8. The form that we saw today, that spot is too low and you would like to see him come early and help CSK win matches," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-ipl-teams-owners-to-meet-in-ahmedabad-to-discuss-ipls-future-706525"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;BCCI, IPL team owners to meet in Ahmedabad to discuss ‘league’s future’</strong></a><br />
<br />
Dhoni came to the crease when the game was all but gone for CSK. Depsite the mounting asking run rate, the World Cup winning captain kept his cool and reduced the deficit to only 20 runs which helped CSK avoid a major dent to net run rate.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


MS Dhoni's 16-ball 37-run cameo, laced with four boundaries and three sixes against Delhi Capitals on Sunday (Mar 31) has led to suggestions from former Australia and India players that the veteran batter should come up the order for Chennai Super Kings.

MS Dhoni's 16-ball 37-run cameo, laced with four boundaries and three sixes against Delhi Capitals on Sunday (Mar 31) has led to suggestions from former Australia and India players that the veteran batter should come up the order for Chennai Super Kings. Australian pacer Brett Lee was the first one to make the case for Dhoni to be pushed up the order by the CSK management. "He was on tonight, he was not rusty. I do want more from him in terms of batting. Get yourself up the order. He is outstanding, his brain is still nice and sharp, CSK please get MS Dhoni up the order," the former Aussie fast bowler told the host streamer. Meanwhile, Lee's former teammate Shane Watson waxed lyrical about Dhoni's performance and his unreal shot-making. "With MS Dhoni in this type of form - this is exactly what you want from him. His power and the skill he has got under pressure when the bowlers are really scrambling to execute, his ability to win a game out of nowhere we have seen so many times through his career," said Watson. "Some of his shots he played tonight, that's as good a shot I have ever seen him play. The one over cover is one of the harder shots to play, but he is still doing it," the former Australia all-rounder added. WATCH | CSK batter MS Dhoni's power hitting in death overs against DC thrills crowd Kaif echoes similar sentiment Cricketer-turned-pundit Mohammed Kaif echoed a similar sentiment and said Dhoni did not look like a player who had not played cricket in the last year or so. "It didn't seem like he wasn't playing cricket regularly. He hasn't played Ranji or club cricket matches or is he playing for India. He is just playing IPL to IPL," said Kaif. "But the way he batted today, this No.8 isn't his spot. He should be playing at No.4 or No.5. Come in and playing a few deliveries but Dhoni is batting way too low at No.8. The form that we saw today, that spot is too low and you would like to see him come early and help CSK win matches," he added. Also read | BCCI, IPL team owners to meet in Ahmedabad to discuss ‘league’s future’ Dhoni came to the crease when the game was all but gone for CSK. Depsite the mounting asking run rate, the World Cup winning captain kept his cool and reduced the deficit to only 20 runs which helped CSK avoid a major dent to net run rate. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2024: Former Indian, Australian players urge CSK to promote MS Dhoni up the order after Vizag blitz

<p>Chennai Super Kings (CSK) wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni turned back the clock during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match against Delhi Capitals on March 31. Dhoni scored unbeaten 37 off 16 balls after coming in to bat in the 17th over of the chase. CSK needed 72 runs of 23 balls when Dhoni faced his first ball which he sent for four towards square leg boundary.</p>

<p>In total, Dhoni hit four fours and three sixes, showing the glimpse of his old-time prowess. This was the first time Dhoni batted in the IPL 2024, sending the Vizag crowd into a frenzy. Dhoni also hit DC's Anrich Nortje for two sixes and two fours in the last over of the match. Have a look at some of the shots below:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Vintage Dhoni 👌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> fans were treated to some strong hitting by MS Dhoni<br />
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<p>MSD's innings, however, wasn't enough for CSK to win as they lost the match by 20 runs. It was their first loss of the season after winning their first two games on the trot. CSK currently sit third on the points table with four points in three games.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-hardik-pandya-in-focus-as-mumbai-indian-take-on-rajasthan-royals-at-home-706398">Hardik Pandya in focus as Mumbai Indians take on Rajasthan Royals at home</a></p>

<p>As for DC, they posted an above-par total of 191/5 in 20 overs. Openers David Warner and Prithvi Shaw started with a full-fledged attack, adding 93 runs for the first wicket. After Warner (52) and Shaw (43 off 27) were out, skipper Pant took the onus of the innings, scoring 51 off 32 balls.</p>

<p>DC could have posted a bigger total had it not been for CSK bowler Matheesha Pathirana's 3/31 in four overs, including a double-wicket over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the match, DC's Pant was fined $15,000 (INR 1.2 million) for his team's slow over-rate. “As it was his team’s inaugural offence of the season under the IPL’s Code of Conduct concerning minimum over rate violations, Pant was fined INR 12 lakhs,” read a statement from the league on the incident.</p>

<p>CSK next play SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 5 while DC take on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on April 3.</p>


Chennai Super Kings (CSK) wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni turned back the clock during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match against Delhi Capitals on March 31.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni turned back the clock during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match against Delhi Capitals on March 31. Dhoni scored unbeaten 37 off 16 balls after coming in to bat in the 17th over of the chase. CSK needed 72 runs of 23 balls when Dhoni faced his first ball which he sent for four towards square leg boundary. In total, Dhoni hit four fours and three sixes, showing the glimpse of his old-time prowess. This was the first time Dhoni batted in the IPL 2024, sending the Vizag crowd into a frenzy. Dhoni also hit DC's Anrich Nortje for two sixes and two fours in the last over of the match. Have a look at some of the shots below: Vintage Dhoni 👌#TATAIPL fans were treated to some strong hitting by MS Dhoni Watch the match LIVE on @JioCinema and @StarSportsIndia 💻📱#DCvCSK | @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/eF4JsOwmsa — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 31, 2024 × MSD's innings, however, wasn't enough for CSK to win as they lost the match by 20 runs. It was their first loss of the season after winning their first two games on the trot. CSK currently sit third on the points table with four points in three games. Also Read: Hardik Pandya in focus as Mumbai Indians take on Rajasthan Royals at home As for DC, they posted an above-par total of 191/5 in 20 overs. Openers David Warner and Prithvi Shaw started with a full-fledged attack, adding 93 runs for the first wicket. After Warner (52) and Shaw (43 off 27) were out, skipper Pant took the onus of the innings, scoring 51 off 32 balls. DC could have posted a bigger total had it not been for CSK bowler Matheesha Pathirana's 3/31 in four overs, including a double-wicket over. After the match, DC's Pant was fined $15,000 (INR 1.2 million) for his team's slow over-rate. “As it was his team’s inaugural offence of the season under the IPL’s Code of Conduct concerning minimum over rate violations, Pant was fined INR 12 lakhs,” read a statement from the league on the incident. CSK next play SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 5 while DC take on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on April 3.

IPL 2024: WATCH | CSK batter MS Dhoni's power hitting in death overs against DC thrills crowd

<p>Delhi Capitals might have won their first game of IPL 2024, but the talk of the town has been MS Dhoni’s unbeaten innings of 37 runs from 16 balls that included three sixes and four fours. Although his exploits came a bit too late for the CSK team as it&nbsp;lost the match by 20 runs, the fans cherished Dhoni’s brief stay at the crease as he entertained all with his vintage shot-making. Even CSK coach Stephen Fleming hailed MS’ knock, pointing out his one-handed six off Anrich Nortje in the last over to be the best of the day.</p>

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<br />
Watch the match LIVE on <a href="https://twitter.com/JioCinema?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JioCinema</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StarSportsIndia</a> 💻📱<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvCSK</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/eF4JsOwmsa">pic.twitter.com/eF4JsOwmsa</a></p>
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<p>For the first time this season, Dhoni came out to bat, but at number eight, when CSK was almost out of the chase. Despite having a bleak chance of winning their third game on the trot, Dhoni went bonkers from ball one, smashing Mukesh Kumar for a four off a pull to begin with.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He then took on Khaleel Ahmed in the next over, slamming him for a four and a six before Kumar returned to bowl a brilliant penultimate over to put DC in the winning position. However, with over 40 needed off the last over, Dhoni took on DC seamer Nortje, hitting him for 20 runs, including two sixes and as many fours. His one-handed six to deep mid-wicket was perhaps the shot of the day.</p>

<p>MS Dhoni had&nbsp;undergone a&nbsp;knee surgery ahead of this season, and per Fleming, he&nbsp;trained well and looked in good form while rehabbing.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-rishabh-pant-fined-12-lakh-after-dcs-win-over-csk-heres-why-706410">IPL 2024: Rishabh Pant fined 1.2 million rupees after DC's win over CSK. Here's why</a></strong></p>

<p>"It was beautiful, wasn't it? And even the one-handed one over midwicket. He has been playing incredibly well in the pre-season," Fleming said at his post-match press conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He's coming back from quite a serious operation. He has been rehabbing well, and his batting has been superb. And that performance gave a positive vibe towards the end of a tough day. So, to get to within 20 [runs] is important run-rate-wise, and the way he played was spectacular,” he added.</p>

<h2>DC opens account in Vizag</h2>

<p>Rishabh Pant’s Delhi Capitals team opened their account in IPL 2024 by beating table-toppers CSK in their second home venue in Vizag on Sunday. Prithvi Shaw’s inclusion in the XI turned out to be massive as he, along with David Warner, got Delhi off to a flyer. Pant scored his maiden fifty this season to propel DC to 191 for five in the first innings.</p>

<p>Chennai lost openers early but Rahane and Mitchell stitched a 68-run stand for the third wicket to keep them alive in the chase. However, a flurry of wickets at the wrong time for CSK saw DC take advantage and walk away with a win eventually.</p>


Delhi Capitals might have won their first game of IPL 2024, but the talk of the town has been MS Dhoni’s unbeaten innings of 37 runs from 16 balls that included three sixes and four fours.

Delhi Capitals might have won their first game of IPL 2024, but the talk of the town has been MS Dhoni’s unbeaten innings of 37 runs from 16 balls that included three sixes and four fours. Although his exploits came a bit too late for the CSK team as it lost the match by 20 runs, the fans cherished Dhoni’s brief stay at the crease as he entertained all with his vintage shot-making. Even CSK coach Stephen Fleming hailed MS’ knock, pointing out his one-handed six off Anrich Nortje in the last over to be the best of the day. Vintage Dhoni 👌#TATAIPL fans were treated to some strong hitting by MS Dhoni Watch the match LIVE on @JioCinema and @StarSportsIndia 💻📱#DCvCSK | @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/eF4JsOwmsa — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 31, 2024 × For the first time this season, Dhoni came out to bat, but at number eight, when CSK was almost out of the chase. Despite having a bleak chance of winning their third game on the trot, Dhoni went bonkers from ball one, smashing Mukesh Kumar for a four off a pull to begin with. He then took on Khaleel Ahmed in the next over, slamming him for a four and a six before Kumar returned to bowl a brilliant penultimate over to put DC in the winning position. However, with over 40 needed off the last over, Dhoni took on DC seamer Nortje, hitting him for 20 runs, including two sixes and as many fours. His one-handed six to deep mid-wicket was perhaps the shot of the day. MS Dhoni had undergone a knee surgery ahead of this season, and per Fleming, he trained well and looked in good form while rehabbing. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: Rishabh Pant fined 1.2 million rupees after DC's win over CSK. Here's why "It was beautiful, wasn't it? And even the one-handed one over midwicket. He has been playing incredibly well in the pre-season," Fleming said at his post-match press conference. "He's coming back from quite a serious operation. He has been rehabbing well, and his batting has been superb. And that performance gave a positive vibe towards the end of a tough day. So, to get to within 20 [runs] is important run-rate-wise, and the way he played was spectacular,” he added. DC opens account in Vizag Rishabh Pant’s Delhi Capitals team opened their account in IPL 2024 by beating table-toppers CSK in their second home venue in Vizag on Sunday. Prithvi Shaw’s inclusion in the XI turned out to be massive as he, along with David Warner, got Delhi off to a flyer. Pant scored his maiden fifty this season to propel DC to 191 for five in the first innings. Chennai lost openers early but Rahane and Mitchell stitched a 68-run stand for the third wicket to keep them alive in the chase. However, a flurry of wickets at the wrong time for CSK saw DC take advantage and walk away with a win eventually.

IPL 2024: ‘Wasn’t it beautiful’ - CSK coach Fleming hails MS Dhoni’s one-handed six

<p>Led by a lethal opening burst from Khaleel Ahmed, Delhi Capitals defeated Chennai Super Kings to secure their first win of the IPL 2024 campaign. Defending a target of 192, CSK needed a rocking start from their on-song openers but both Rachin Ravindra and skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad failed to get going and departed inside the first three overs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From thereon, it was an uphill battle all the way through for CSK who fell short by 20 runs in the end, despite a late surge from MS Dhoni (37) and Ravindra Jadeja (21). The former CSK skipper walked out to bat for the first time this season and treated the Vizag crowd to some delicious stroke-making.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the openers departed cheaply, the middle-order tried its best to keep up with the required run-rate but the pair of Ajinkya Rahane and Daryly Mitchell struggled against a disciplined bowling lineup. Mitchell lost his shape a few times trying to force the issue and eventually departed against Axar Patel who caught a sharp one off his own bowling.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-pathiranas-one-hand-stunner-and-yorker-exhibition-flatten-dc-watch-706296"><strong>Watch | IPL 2024: Pathirana’s one-hand stunner, two yorker dismissals flatten DC&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>DC post challenging total</strong></h2>

<p>Playing at the new home ground, Capitals came out of the blocks in blistering&nbsp;manner,&nbsp; courtesy of David Warner and freshly recalled Prithvi Shaw. The duo stitched a 93-run partnership by the halfway mark, forcing Ruturaj to make quick changes to the bowling queue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Just when it seemed like DC were running away with the match, Sri Lanka pacer Matheesha Pathirana pulled a rabbit out of the hat by plucking a stunner in the short third-man region to send Warner home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pathirana's heroics in the field did not stop there as he came in to bowl and cleaned up Mitchell Marsh as well Tristan Stubbs in the same over. The Australian all-rounder was starting to tee off before Pathirana darted in his slingy, pacy yorker at the base of the stumps which Marsh could not dig out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the setbacks, DC skipper Rishabh Pant (52) kept coming at the bowlers and compiled his first fifty after returning to professional cricket, post the horrific car accident. His innings was perhaps the difference between a win and a loss for the Capitals that desperately needed to get off the mark&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>Teams:</b></p>

<p><b>Delhi Capitals</b>&nbsp;(Playing XI): Prithvi Shaw, David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Rishabh Pant(w/c), Tristan Stubbs, Abishek Porel, Axar Patel, Anrich Nortje, Mukesh Kumar, Ishant Sharma, Khaleel Ahmed</p>

<p><b>Chennai Super Kings</b>&nbsp;(Playing XI): Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Rachin Ravindra, Ajinkya Rahane, Daryl Mitchell, Ravindra Jadeja, Sameer Rizvi, MS Dhoni(w), Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Matheesha Pathirana, Mustafizur Rahman</p>


Led by a lethal opening burst from Khaleel Ahmed, Delhi Capitals defeated Chennai Super Kings to secure their first win of the IPL 2024 campaign. Defending a target of 192, CSK needed a rocking start from their on-song openers but both Rachin Ravindra and skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad failed to get going and departed inside the first three overs.

Led by a lethal opening burst from Khaleel Ahmed, Delhi Capitals defeated Chennai Super Kings to secure their first win of the IPL 2024 campaign. Defending a target of 192, CSK needed a rocking start from their on-song openers but both Rachin Ravindra and skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad failed to get going and departed inside the first three overs. From thereon, it was an uphill battle all the way through for CSK who fell short by 20 runs in the end, despite a late surge from MS Dhoni (37) and Ravindra Jadeja (21). The former CSK skipper walked out to bat for the first time this season and treated the Vizag crowd to some delicious stroke-making. While the openers departed cheaply, the middle-order tried its best to keep up with the required run-rate but the pair of Ajinkya Rahane and Daryly Mitchell struggled against a disciplined bowling lineup. Mitchell lost his shape a few times trying to force the issue and eventually departed against Axar Patel who caught a sharp one off his own bowling. Watch | IPL 2024: Pathirana’s one-hand stunner, two yorker dismissals flatten DC DC post challenging total Playing at the new home ground, Capitals came out of the blocks in blistering manner, courtesy of David Warner and freshly recalled Prithvi Shaw. The duo stitched a 93-run partnership by the halfway mark, forcing Ruturaj to make quick changes to the bowling queue. Just when it seemed like DC were running away with the match, Sri Lanka pacer Matheesha Pathirana pulled a rabbit out of the hat by plucking a stunner in the short third-man region to send Warner home. Pathirana's heroics in the field did not stop there as he came in to bowl and cleaned up Mitchell Marsh as well Tristan Stubbs in the same over. The Australian all-rounder was starting to tee off before Pathirana darted in his slingy, pacy yorker at the base of the stumps which Marsh could not dig out. Despite the setbacks, DC skipper Rishabh Pant (52) kept coming at the bowlers and compiled his first fifty after returning to professional cricket, post the horrific car accident. His innings was perhaps the difference between a win and a loss for the Capitals that desperately needed to get off the mark Teams: Delhi Capitals (Playing XI): Prithvi Shaw, David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Rishabh Pant(w/c), Tristan Stubbs, Abishek Porel, Axar Patel, Anrich Nortje, Mukesh Kumar, Ishant Sharma, Khaleel Ahmed Chennai Super Kings (Playing XI): Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Rachin Ravindra, Ajinkya Rahane, Daryl Mitchell, Ravindra Jadeja, Sameer Rizvi, MS Dhoni(w), Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Matheesha Pathirana, Mustafizur Rahman

IPL 2024: DC beat CSK by 20 runs at Vizag despite late MS Dhoni fireworks

<p>Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batting coach Michael Hussey has predicted that MS Dhoni will be hitting the winning six to finish off Indian Premier League (IPL) match against Delhi Capitals on March 31. Hussey made the comments during the conversation with DC coach Ricky Ponting in a video shared by the IPL social media handle X.</p>

<p>"My prediction for the last over of the match is that MS Dhoni will be batting. The crowd will be roaring and MSD &nbsp;will hit a six to finish the match," Hussey said in the video.</p>

<p>Ponting, on the other hand, hoped for DC skipper Rishabh Pant to finish off the game in the last over.</p>

<p>Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-watch-lsgs-mayank-yadav-bowls-fastest-ball-of-season-at-156-kmph-vs-pbks-706208">LSG's Mayank Yadav bowls fastest ball of season at 156 kmph vs PBKS&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>"What would I like to see? I would like to see Rishabh Pant on strike in the last over, Delhi with 12 to win and Rishabh hitting a boundary off the last ball to win the game for Delhi. I mean, that'd be the story that a lot of people would like to see. That's the story that the DC fans would like to see. And I'm sure there's the opposite story for the CSK fans," said the DC coach.</p>

<p>Ponting has also hinted at inclusion of batter Prithvi Shaw in the playing XI for the match. The comments came as Capitals have lost two of their two games and currently are ninth on ten-team points table.</p>

<p>DC failed to defend 175 against Punjab Kings in their first match and lost the match by four wickets. In the second match, they allowed Rajasthan Royals to post 185/5 despite having them on edge at 36/3 in 7.2 overs. While chasing, DC lost the plot in the end overs and could manage only 173/5 despite Tristan Stubbs' 23-ball 44 not out and lost the match by 12 runs.</p>

<p>For CSK, it's all merry under new skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, winning both their matches so far.</p>


Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batting coach Michael Hussey has predicted that MS Dhoni will be hitting the winning six to finish off Indian Premier League (IPL) match against Delhi Capitals on March 31.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batting coach Michael Hussey has predicted that MS Dhoni will be hitting the winning six to finish off Indian Premier League (IPL) match against Delhi Capitals on March 31. Hussey made the comments during the conversation with DC coach Ricky Ponting in a video shared by the IPL social media handle X. "My prediction for the last over of the match is that MS Dhoni will be batting. The crowd will be roaring and MSD will hit a six to finish the match," Hussey said in the video. Ponting, on the other hand, hoped for DC skipper Rishabh Pant to finish off the game in the last over. Also Watch: LSG's Mayank Yadav bowls fastest ball of season at 156 kmph vs PBKS "What would I like to see? I would like to see Rishabh Pant on strike in the last over, Delhi with 12 to win and Rishabh hitting a boundary off the last ball to win the game for Delhi. I mean, that'd be the story that a lot of people would like to see. That's the story that the DC fans would like to see. And I'm sure there's the opposite story for the CSK fans," said the DC coach. Ponting has also hinted at inclusion of batter Prithvi Shaw in the playing XI for the match. The comments came as Capitals have lost two of their two games and currently are ninth on ten-team points table. DC failed to defend 175 against Punjab Kings in their first match and lost the match by four wickets. In the second match, they allowed Rajasthan Royals to post 185/5 despite having them on edge at 36/3 in 7.2 overs. While chasing, DC lost the plot in the end overs and could manage only 173/5 despite Tristan Stubbs' 23-ball 44 not out and lost the match by 12 runs. For CSK, it's all merry under new skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, winning both their matches so far.

IPL 2024: 'MS Dhoni's six will finish match vs DC,' predicts CSK batting coach Michael Hussey

<p>Ruturaj Gaikwad-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are one of the favourites of the upcoming IPL 2024 edition. The defending champions will play the season-opener, where they will host the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on March 22 (Friday). The five-time winners will embark upon a new journey with Gaikwad leading the franchise&nbsp;after Dhoni stepped down as the captain on Thursday (March 21). Thus, all eyes will be on the Chennai opening batter and how he takes over from Dhoni.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the IPL 2024 mini-auction, Chennai added quite a few promising names to their roster. Hence, the Yellow Army are a formidable unit and will aim to clinch their sixth IPL title this year (which will make them the most successful franchise in the tournament).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Chennai Super Kings IPL 2024 Details</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Home ground</strong>: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai</p>

<p><strong>Best Performance:</strong> Winners in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023</p>

<p><strong>Captain</strong>: Ruturaj Gaikwad</p>

<p><strong>Players to watch out:</strong>&nbsp;Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Sameer Rizvi</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-ruturaj-gaikwad-replaces-ms-dhoni-as-chennai-super-kings-captain-702645">IPL 2024: MS Dhoni steps down as CSK captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad announced his replacement</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Schedule:</strong></h2>

<p>Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore&nbsp; - March 22 - Chennai - 7:30 PM IST</p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings vs Gujarat Titans - March 26 - Chennai - 7:30 PM IST</p>

<p>Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings - March 31 - Vizag - 7:30 PM IST</p>

<p>Sunrisers Hyderabad&nbsp;vs Chennai Super Kings - April 5 - Hyderabad - 7:30 PM IST</p>

<p><strong>CSK IPL 2024 probable playing XI: </strong>Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rachin Ravindra, Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (wk), Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Mustafizur Rahman, Maheesh Theekshana&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>CSK players bought at&nbsp;IPL 2024&nbsp;auction:</strong>&nbsp;Rachin Ravindra (INR&nbsp;1.8 crore), Shardul Thakur (INR&nbsp;4 crore), Daryl Mitchell (INR&nbsp;14 crore), Sameer Rizvi (INR 8.40 crore), Mustafizur Rahman (INR&nbsp;2 crore), Avanish Rao Aravelly (INR&nbsp;20 lakh).</p>

<p><strong>CSK squad for IPL 2024: </strong>MS Dhoni&nbsp;(wk), Moeen Ali, Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway (wk), Tushar Deshpande, Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Ajay Mandal, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Ajinkya Rahane, Shaik Rasheed, Mitchell Santner, Simarjeet Singh, Nishant Sindhu, Prashant Solanki, Matheesha&nbsp;Theekshana, Rachin Ravindra, Shardul Thakur, Daryl Mitchell, Sameer Rizvi, Mustafizur Rahman, Avanish Rao Aravelly</p>


Ruturaj Gaikwad-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are one of the favourites of the upcoming IPL 2024 edition. The defending champions will play the season-opener, where they will host the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on March 22 (Friday).

Ruturaj Gaikwad-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are one of the favourites of the upcoming IPL 2024 edition. The defending champions will play the season-opener, where they will host the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on March 22 (Friday). The five-time winners will embark upon a new journey with Gaikwad leading the franchise after Dhoni stepped down as the captain on Thursday (March 21). Thus, all eyes will be on the Chennai opening batter and how he takes over from Dhoni. During the IPL 2024 mini-auction, Chennai added quite a few promising names to their roster. Hence, the Yellow Army are a formidable unit and will aim to clinch their sixth IPL title this year (which will make them the most successful franchise in the tournament). Chennai Super Kings IPL 2024 Details Home ground: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Best Performance: Winners in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023 Captain: Ruturaj Gaikwad Players to watch out: Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Sameer Rizvi Also read: IPL 2024: MS Dhoni steps down as CSK captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad announced his replacement Schedule: Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore - March 22 - Chennai - 7:30 PM IST Chennai Super Kings vs Gujarat Titans - March 26 - Chennai - 7:30 PM IST Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings - March 31 - Vizag - 7:30 PM IST Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings - April 5 - Hyderabad - 7:30 PM IST CSK IPL 2024 probable playing XI: Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rachin Ravindra, Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (wk), Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Mustafizur Rahman, Maheesh Theekshana CSK players bought at IPL 2024 auction: Rachin Ravindra (INR 1.8 crore), Shardul Thakur (INR 4 crore), Daryl Mitchell (INR 14 crore), Sameer Rizvi (INR 8.40 crore), Mustafizur Rahman (INR 2 crore), Avanish Rao Aravelly (INR 20 lakh). CSK squad for IPL 2024: MS Dhoni (wk), Moeen Ali, Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway (wk), Tushar Deshpande, Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Ajay Mandal, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Ajinkya Rahane, Shaik Rasheed, Mitchell Santner, Simarjeet Singh, Nishant Sindhu, Prashant Solanki, Matheesha Theekshana, Rachin Ravindra, Shardul Thakur, Daryl Mitchell, Sameer Rizvi, Mustafizur Rahman, Avanish Rao Aravelly

CSK Full Updated squad: IPL 2024, Chennai Super Kings probable playing XI, replacement, captain, schedule

<p>Chennai Super Kings (CSK) wicketkeeper MS Dhoni took an incredible full-stretch catch during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match against Gujarat Titans (GT) on Tuesday (March 26). The catch was taken in the eighth over of the chase when GT batter Vijay Shankar edged a ball off Daryl Mitchell and Dhoni flung to his right to grab it.</p>

<p>The crowd in Chennai, home of CSK, went into a frenzy, as they usually do for MS Dhoni, who probably is playing his final season of&nbsp;the cash-rich league. Have a look at the video of the catch below:</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">𝗩𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗠𝗦𝗗 😎<br />
<br />
An excellent diving grab behind the stumps and the home crowd erupts in joy💛<br />
<br />
Head to <a href="https://twitter.com/JioCinema?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JioCinema</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StarSportsIndia</a> to watch the match LIVE<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvGT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvGT</a> <a href="https://t.co/n5AlXAw9Zg">pic.twitter.com/n5AlXAw9Zg</a></p>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1772668089986957549?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Shankar was the third wicket to fall for GT who could never get going in the&nbsp;chase of 207. After Shankar went back, David Miller (21) and Sai Sudharsan added 41 runs for the fourth wicket and that remained the biggest partnership of the innings. GT could eventually manage 143/8 in 20 overs and lost the game by 63 runs.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-watch-csks-samir-rizvi-hits-gt-spinner-rashid-khan-for-first-ball-six-coach-calls-it-crazy-704654">WATCH | CSK's Samir Rizvi hits GT spinner Rashid Khan for first-ball six, coach calls it 'crazy'</a></p>

<p>For CSK, Deepak Chahar, Mustafizur Rahman and Tushar Dehspande took two wickets each, while Daryl Mitchell and Matheesha Pathirana chipped with one apiece.</p>

<p>Earlier, CSK's Kiwi opener Rachin Ravindra gave his team a flying start by scoring 20-ball 46 and added 62 runs for the opening wicket with skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad. CSK never lost momentum in their innings, thanks to Shivam Dube's attacking 23-ball 51 before debutant Samir Rizvi's 6-ball 14 cameo.</p>

<p>Rizvi came in to bat in the 19th over of the first innings and hit GT spinner Rashid Khan for a six on the first ball over square leg. He was promoted up the order to number five and CSK batting coach Mike Hussey called it a masterstroke from the think tank. Rizvi went on to hit Rashid for one more six in the same over before his innings was cut short in the final over by Mohit Sharma as CSK finished at 206/6 in 20 overs.</p>


Chennai Super Kings (CSK) wicketkeeper MS Dhoni took an incredible full-stretch catch during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match against Gujarat Titans (GT) on Tuesday (March 26).

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) wicketkeeper MS Dhoni took an incredible full-stretch catch during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match against Gujarat Titans (GT) on Tuesday (March 26). The catch was taken in the eighth over of the chase when GT batter Vijay Shankar edged a ball off Daryl Mitchell and Dhoni flung to his right to grab it. The crowd in Chennai, home of CSK, went into a frenzy, as they usually do for MS Dhoni, who probably is playing his final season of the cash-rich league. Have a look at the video of the catch below: 𝗩𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗠𝗦𝗗 😎 An excellent diving grab behind the stumps and the home crowd erupts in joy💛 Head to @JioCinema and @StarSportsIndia to watch the match LIVE#TATAIPL | #CSKvGT pic.twitter.com/n5AlXAw9Zg — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 26, 2024 × Shankar was the third wicket to fall for GT who could never get going in the chase of 207. After Shankar went back, David Miller (21) and Sai Sudharsan added 41 runs for the fourth wicket and that remained the biggest partnership of the innings. GT could eventually manage 143/8 in 20 overs and lost the game by 63 runs. Also Read: WATCH | CSK's Samir Rizvi hits GT spinner Rashid Khan for first-ball six, coach calls it 'crazy' For CSK, Deepak Chahar, Mustafizur Rahman and Tushar Dehspande took two wickets each, while Daryl Mitchell and Matheesha Pathirana chipped with one apiece. Earlier, CSK's Kiwi opener Rachin Ravindra gave his team a flying start by scoring 20-ball 46 and added 62 runs for the opening wicket with skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad. CSK never lost momentum in their innings, thanks to Shivam Dube's attacking 23-ball 51 before debutant Samir Rizvi's 6-ball 14 cameo. Rizvi came in to bat in the 19th over of the first innings and hit GT spinner Rashid Khan for a six on the first ball over square leg. He was promoted up the order to number five and CSK batting coach Mike Hussey called it a masterstroke from the think tank. Rizvi went on to hit Rashid for one more six in the same over before his innings was cut short in the final over by Mohit Sharma as CSK finished at 206/6 in 20 overs.

IPL 2024: WATCH | CSK's MS Dhoni takes incredible full-stretch catch vs GT to send crowd into frenzy

<p>Ruturaj Gaikwad-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) continued their winning run in IPL 2024 as they beat Gujarat Titans (GT) by 63 runs in match 7 on Tuesday (March 26) in Chennai. Being asked to bat first, the defending champions rode on a clinical batting show -- led by Shivam Dube's 23-ball 51 -- to post 206 for 6. In reply, Shubman Gill &amp; Co&nbsp;only managed 143 for 8 to lose by a big margin. From CSK, new addition Sameer Rizvi also got a chance to showcase his finishing skills after being sent at No. 6, managing a 6-ball 14.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On IPL debut, Rizvi came out to bat in the 19th over and smacked a six, off Rashid Khan, on the first ball. He ended his inning with another maximum to help CSK push their score beyond 200. After the contest, he revealed what advice he got from former Chennai captain MS Dhoni. Speaking to the IPL website, he said, "Dhoni bhai told me just one thing. How you have been playing till now, that's the game. You just need to play like that. There's nothing different. The skill is the same and the mindset maybe a little different. So whenever you're playing, don't feel the pressure."</p>

<p>He further opined, "Just play according to the situation. Then you won't feel the pressure. Then you won't be nervous. Obviously, it's your first game, so you would be nervous. But just play how you have been playing till now."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-watch-csks-ms-dhoni-takes-incredible-full-stretch-catch-vs-gt-to-send-crowd-into-frenzy-704694">IPL 2024: WATCH | CSK's MS Dhoni takes incredible full-stretch catch vs GT to send crowd into frenzy</a></strong></p>

<p>Rizvi added, "When I was picked by CSK during the IPL auction I was very happy. It was a dream of mine to meet MS Dhoni. Playing with him was something I hadn't thought of, but meeting him was a dream. Now that dream has been fulfilled and I'm getting to play alongside him. We have had a lot of net sessions together, and I have learned a lot from him. I have learned from the coaching staff as well. So that's my aim to learn as much as possible from this team."</p>

<p>In GT's run-chase, CSK bowlers were on the money from the word go. As a result, Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande and Mustafizur Rahman claimed two wickets each, whereas Sri Lanka pacer Matheesha Pathirana, playing his first game of the season, ended with a scalp as well.</p>

<p>Table-toppers CSK will now travel to Visakhapatnam to face Delhi Capitals (DC) on March 31.</p>


Ruturaj Gaikwad-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) continued their winning run in IPL 2024 as they beat Gujarat Titans (GT) by 63 runs in match 7 on Tuesday (March 26) in Chennai.

Ruturaj Gaikwad-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) continued their winning run in IPL 2024 as they beat Gujarat Titans (GT) by 63 runs in match 7 on Tuesday (March 26) in Chennai. Being asked to bat first, the defending champions rode on a clinical batting show -- led by Shivam Dube's 23-ball 51 -- to post 206 for 6. In reply, Shubman Gill & Co only managed 143 for 8 to lose by a big margin. From CSK, new addition Sameer Rizvi also got a chance to showcase his finishing skills after being sent at No. 6, managing a 6-ball 14. On IPL debut, Rizvi came out to bat in the 19th over and smacked a six, off Rashid Khan, on the first ball. He ended his inning with another maximum to help CSK push their score beyond 200. After the contest, he revealed what advice he got from former Chennai captain MS Dhoni. Speaking to the IPL website, he said, "Dhoni bhai told me just one thing. How you have been playing till now, that's the game. You just need to play like that. There's nothing different. The skill is the same and the mindset maybe a little different. So whenever you're playing, don't feel the pressure." He further opined, "Just play according to the situation. Then you won't feel the pressure. Then you won't be nervous. Obviously, it's your first game, so you would be nervous. But just play how you have been playing till now." Also read: IPL 2024: WATCH | CSK's MS Dhoni takes incredible full-stretch catch vs GT to send crowd into frenzy Rizvi added, "When I was picked by CSK during the IPL auction I was very happy. It was a dream of mine to meet MS Dhoni. Playing with him was something I hadn't thought of, but meeting him was a dream. Now that dream has been fulfilled and I'm getting to play alongside him. We have had a lot of net sessions together, and I have learned a lot from him. I have learned from the coaching staff as well. So that's my aim to learn as much as possible from this team." In GT's run-chase, CSK bowlers were on the money from the word go. As a result, Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande and Mustafizur Rahman claimed two wickets each, whereas Sri Lanka pacer Matheesha Pathirana, playing his first game of the season, ended with a scalp as well. Table-toppers CSK will now travel to Visakhapatnam to face Delhi Capitals (DC) on March 31.

IPL 2024: 'He told me one day...': CSK star Sameer Rizvi reveals advice he got from former captain

<p>Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull lavished huge praise on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)'s finisher Dinesh Karthik for his stunning show versus Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 6 of the ongoing IPL 2024 edition. Playing at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, RCB restricted Punjab to 176 for 6 before chasing down the score in 19.2 overs with four wickets in hand courtesy of Virat Kohli's 49-ball 77, DK's 10-ball 28* and Mahipal Lomror's 8-ball 17*. After the game, Doull praised Karthik for making full use of his experience as a finisher to take Bengaluru home in a tense run-chase.</p>

<p>DK came out to bat at No. 7 with RCB needing 47 off the last 30 balls. While he lost Anuj Rawat soon, he stitched a valuable unbeaten 48-run stand with Lomror (the impact substitute) to take his side to their first win of the 17th season on Monday evening (March 25). Thus, Doull appreciated DK's mindset of handling the pressure and understanding what the bowlers were trying to do. He even compared him with MS Dhoni, one of the greatest white-ball finishers.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'It&nbsp;was straight out of the MS Dhoni school'</strong></h2>

<p>Doull said on Cricbuzz, "Just shows you the pressure of the situation. I think that's the key to those who hold their nerve a little bit better. That's why when you've got a Dinesh Karthik to get at the backend with that experience. We talked about what he passes on to the youngsters and the side but it's the experience of keeping calm and understanding what the bowler is trying to do, knowing where your strengths are. It's was straight out of the MS Dhoni school."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-virat-kohli-turned-indian-cricketers-into-athletes-kevin-pietersen-hails-rcb-star-batter-704397">IPL 2024: Virat Kohli turned Indian cricketers into athletes - Kevin Pietersen hails RCB star batter</a></strong></p>

<p>He further added, "The deeper you take it as a batting side, the more pressure the bowlers will be under even if you do need quite a large total, even if you need, 36 of three overs, the deeper you take it, the bowlers will feel more pressure and that's exactly what happened. There was some indifferent bowling at times with the wrong field-sets but you've still got to be able to finish it off and be cool and that calm under pressure."</p>

<p>Earlier, Mohammed Siraj and Glenn Maxwell accounted for two wickets apiece to restrict Shikhar Dhawan-led Punjab to 176-6 before chasing down the score in the last over. RCB will now host Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday evening (March 29).&nbsp;</p>


Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull lavished huge praise on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)'s finisher Dinesh Karthik for his stunning show versus Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 6 of the ongoing IPL 2024 edition.

Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull lavished huge praise on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)'s finisher Dinesh Karthik for his stunning show versus Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 6 of the ongoing IPL 2024 edition. Playing at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, RCB restricted Punjab to 176 for 6 before chasing down the score in 19.2 overs with four wickets in hand courtesy of Virat Kohli's 49-ball 77, DK's 10-ball 28* and Mahipal Lomror's 8-ball 17*. After the game, Doull praised Karthik for making full use of his experience as a finisher to take Bengaluru home in a tense run-chase. DK came out to bat at No. 7 with RCB needing 47 off the last 30 balls. While he lost Anuj Rawat soon, he stitched a valuable unbeaten 48-run stand with Lomror (the impact substitute) to take his side to their first win of the 17th season on Monday evening (March 25). Thus, Doull appreciated DK's mindset of handling the pressure and understanding what the bowlers were trying to do. He even compared him with MS Dhoni, one of the greatest white-ball finishers. 'It was straight out of the MS Dhoni school' Doull said on Cricbuzz, "Just shows you the pressure of the situation. I think that's the key to those who hold their nerve a little bit better. That's why when you've got a Dinesh Karthik to get at the backend with that experience. We talked about what he passes on to the youngsters and the side but it's the experience of keeping calm and understanding what the bowler is trying to do, knowing where your strengths are. It's was straight out of the MS Dhoni school." Also read: IPL 2024: Virat Kohli turned Indian cricketers into athletes - Kevin Pietersen hails RCB star batter He further added, "The deeper you take it as a batting side, the more pressure the bowlers will be under even if you do need quite a large total, even if you need, 36 of three overs, the deeper you take it, the bowlers will feel more pressure and that's exactly what happened. There was some indifferent bowling at times with the wrong field-sets but you've still got to be able to finish it off and be cool and that calm under pressure." Earlier, Mohammed Siraj and Glenn Maxwell accounted for two wickets apiece to restrict Shikhar Dhawan-led Punjab to 176-6 before chasing down the score in the last over. RCB will now host Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday evening (March 29).

IPL 2024: ‘Straight out of the Dhoni school’ - Doull hails DK after RCB finisher’s stunning show vs PBKS

<p>Virat Kohli's 49-ball 77 stood tall for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in chase of 177 versus Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 6 of the IPL 2024 edition on Monday (March 25), at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Opting to bowl first, Faf du Plessis-led Bengaluru restricted Shikhar Dhawan &amp; Co. for 176-6. In reply, the home side were given a good platform from Kohli before Dinesh Karthik (10-ball 29*) and Mahipal Lomror (8-ball 17*) finished proceedings in style in 19.2 overs. With a four-wicket win, RCB are off the mark in the ongoing edition.</p>

<p>Kohli ended as the Player-of-the-Match (POTM) and equalled Chennai Super Kings (CSK) superstar MS Dhoni in an elite list. Both Kohli and Dhoni have now won the POTM&nbsp;award on 17 occasions in IPL history. Here is the overall list, spearheaded by RCB great AB de Villiers.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>1. AB de Villiers - 25<br />
2. Chris Gayle - 22<br />
3. Rohit Sharma - 19<br />
4. David Warner - 18<br />
<strong>5. Virat Kohli - 17</strong><br />
5. MS Dhoni - 17<br />
6. Yusuf Pathan - 16</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-hes-treasure-rcb-responds-to-murali-karthiks-controversial-remark-on-yash-dayal-after-pbks-tie-704306">IPL 2024: 'He’s treasure' - RCB responds to Murali Karthik's controversial remark on Yash Dayal after PBKS tie</a></strong></p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, Kohli stated, "And I thought I need to play correct cricketing shots. Playing across the line wasn't working. Disappointed I couldn't finish the game. Was in the slot but sliced it to deep point. Not a bad start - playing after two months and getting into the tournament."</p>

<p>Kohli-starrer RCB will now gear up for their next clash where they will host rivals Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in match 10 of the ongoing edition on Friday (March 29). They will aim to make it two wins on the trot.&nbsp;</p>


Virat Kohli's 49-ball 77 stood tall for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in chase of 177 versus Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 6 of the IPL 2024 edition on Monday (March 25), at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Virat Kohli's 49-ball 77 stood tall for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in chase of 177 versus Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 6 of the IPL 2024 edition on Monday (March 25), at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Opting to bowl first, Faf du Plessis-led Bengaluru restricted Shikhar Dhawan & Co. for 176-6. In reply, the home side were given a good platform from Kohli before Dinesh Karthik (10-ball 29*) and Mahipal Lomror (8-ball 17*) finished proceedings in style in 19.2 overs. With a four-wicket win, RCB are off the mark in the ongoing edition. Kohli ended as the Player-of-the-Match (POTM) and equalled Chennai Super Kings (CSK) superstar MS Dhoni in an elite list. Both Kohli and Dhoni have now won the POTM award on 17 occasions in IPL history. Here is the overall list, spearheaded by RCB great AB de Villiers. 1. AB de Villiers - 25 2. Chris Gayle - 22 3. Rohit Sharma - 19 4. David Warner - 18 5. Virat Kohli - 17 5. MS Dhoni - 17 6. Yusuf Pathan - 16 Also read: IPL 2024: 'He’s treasure' - RCB responds to Murali Karthik's controversial remark on Yash Dayal after PBKS tie At the post-match presentation, Kohli stated, "And I thought I need to play correct cricketing shots. Playing across the line wasn't working. Disappointed I couldn't finish the game. Was in the slot but sliced it to deep point. Not a bad start - playing after two months and getting into the tournament." Kohli-starrer RCB will now gear up for their next clash where they will host rivals Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in match 10 of the ongoing edition on Friday (March 29). They will aim to make it two wins on the trot.

IPL 2024: Virat Kohli comes at par with MS Dhoni in elite list after RCB beat PBKS

<p>Two of India’s greatest cricketers, Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni, have shared the dressing room for nearly a decade, sharing mutual admiration and respect for what they achieved on the cricket field during their playing days. Speaking on how he perceived Dhoni when he first burst onto the international scene during his maiden series in Bangladesh (in December 2004), Sachin said the sound of MS’ bat in the games made him realise his potential.</p>

<p>“First time I saw him was in Bangladesh. In one of the matches he played, one or two shots at the end, the kind of sound I heard from his bat, I immediately turned towards Sourav (Ganguly), sitting next to me and said, ‘There is something different when he hits the ball’,” Sachin Tendulkar revealed on Jio Insider.</p>

<p>Sachin further said given the power-hitter that MS Dhoni was, and the sound his bat used to make while striking the ball, everyone knew it would travel 10 yards extra into the stands.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-pcb-chairman-and-diplomat-shaharyar-khan-passes-away-at-89-703470">Former PCB chairman and diplomat Shaharyar Khan passes away at 89</a></strong></p>

<p>“The big hitters have this speciality, and when they connect it, you will think it is going to the distance, but it will travel 10 yards more. I saw that quality in his batting,” he added.</p>

<h2>Why did MS never sit with Sachin on the plane?</h2>

<p>Often being allotted the seat next to the mighty Sachin Tendulkar on the plane, MS Dhoni never used to sit there, instead asked someone else to swap it with him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Few players told me, most of the time in flight, his seat would be next to me, but he will switch it with some other players,” laughed Sachin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“For few years, he never sat next to me. We started sitting next to each other later. I didn’t know that he was so shy, and that’s why he used to switch his seats,” Sachin revealed.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>When Sachin suggested BCCI to appoint MS as captain</h2>

<p>Following India’s shocking early exit from the 2007 World Cup in the West Indies, the BCCI reached out to Sachin to lead the Men in Blue in the white-ball set-up, including in the T20Is, but Sachin declined the offer immediately.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Instead, he urged the board to look at an unlikely candidate in MS Dhoni, whom he thought was the right man for the job going ahead. Shedding light on the same, Sachin said,&nbsp;“The BCCI offered me captaincy in 2007, but my body was in terrible shape.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“My observation of MS Dhoni was very good. His mind is very stable, he’s calm, he’s instinctive, and makes the right decisions. I recommended him for the captaincy,” the Master Blaster revealed.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, MS Dhoni, 42, appeared in the IPL 2024 opener between Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, a day after relinquishing his CSK captaincy to opener Ruturaj Gaikwad. CSK won the curtain raiser by six wickets.</p>


Two of India’s greatest cricketers, Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni, have shared the dressing room for nearly a decade, sharing mutual admiration and respect for what they achieved on the cricket field during their playing days.

Two of India’s greatest cricketers, Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni, have shared the dressing room for nearly a decade, sharing mutual admiration and respect for what they achieved on the cricket field during their playing days. Speaking on how he perceived Dhoni when he first burst onto the international scene during his maiden series in Bangladesh (in December 2004), Sachin said the sound of MS’ bat in the games made him realise his potential. “First time I saw him was in Bangladesh. In one of the matches he played, one or two shots at the end, the kind of sound I heard from his bat, I immediately turned towards Sourav (Ganguly), sitting next to me and said, ‘There is something different when he hits the ball’,” Sachin Tendulkar revealed on Jio Insider. Sachin further said given the power-hitter that MS Dhoni was, and the sound his bat used to make while striking the ball, everyone knew it would travel 10 yards extra into the stands. ALSO READ: Former PCB chairman and diplomat Shaharyar Khan passes away at 89 “The big hitters have this speciality, and when they connect it, you will think it is going to the distance, but it will travel 10 yards more. I saw that quality in his batting,” he added. Why did MS never sit with Sachin on the plane? Often being allotted the seat next to the mighty Sachin Tendulkar on the plane, MS Dhoni never used to sit there, instead asked someone else to swap it with him. “Few players told me, most of the time in flight, his seat would be next to me, but he will switch it with some other players,” laughed Sachin. “For few years, he never sat next to me. We started sitting next to each other later. I didn’t know that he was so shy, and that’s why he used to switch his seats,” Sachin revealed. When Sachin suggested BCCI to appoint MS as captain Following India’s shocking early exit from the 2007 World Cup in the West Indies, the BCCI reached out to Sachin to lead the Men in Blue in the white-ball set-up, including in the T20Is, but Sachin declined the offer immediately. Instead, he urged the board to look at an unlikely candidate in MS Dhoni, whom he thought was the right man for the job going ahead. Shedding light on the same, Sachin said, “The BCCI offered me captaincy in 2007, but my body was in terrible shape.” “My observation of MS Dhoni was very good. His mind is very stable, he’s calm, he’s instinctive, and makes the right decisions. I recommended him for the captaincy,” the Master Blaster revealed. Meanwhile, MS Dhoni, 42, appeared in the IPL 2024 opener between Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, a day after relinquishing his CSK captaincy to opener Ruturaj Gaikwad. CSK won the curtain raiser by six wickets.

Sachin recollects watching MS Dhoni bat for first time; opens up on suggesting his name for captaincy in 2007

<p>The 17th edition of the Indian Premier League is about to get underway, with two giants of the league – Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, slated to face off in the curtain-raiser at Chepauk on Friday (March 22). While MS Dhoni relinquishing CSK’s captaincy on the eve of the IPL 2024 opener made headlines, the contest between the two powerhouses is one to look out for. Here is the match preview and result prediction of CSK vs RCB in IPL 2024.</p>

<h2>Will RCB break Chepauk jinx?</h2>

<p>The Royal Challengers Bangalore has never beaten Chennai at their home ground since 2008. With former CSK hero Faf du Plessis leading the RCB side against the home favourite, emotions and action will flare up.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-youve-to-respect-his-decision-csk-ceo-on-ms-dhoni-handing-over-captaincy-to-gaikwad-702800">IPL 2024: ‘You’ve to respect his decision’ – CSK CEO on MS Dhoni handing over captaincy to Gaikwad</a></strong></p>

<p>The travelling RCB side has a few new faces, with Australian all-rounder Cameron Green being an exciting addition to the squad. Veteran Virat Kohli is also returning to competitive cricket after nearly two months, and the fans in attendance will remain on their toes to watch some of the greats go up against each other.</p>

<p>A new-look bowling attack, led by Mohammed Siraj, will have a lot riding on their shoulders as RCB aims to walk into Chepauk to end their losing run against CSK.</p>

<h3>CSK ready to flourish under new captain Gaikwad</h3>

<p>MS Dhoni handing over the IPL captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad sent shockwaves to everyone in the cricket world, with the announcement coming on the eve of IPL 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, with a new face at the helm, Chennai Super Kings will embark on a new journey starting Friday at home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the addition of the new players to the side, including the Kiwi pair of Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell and Indian youngster Sameer Rizvi, CSK has a lot to look forward to this season.&nbsp;</p>

<h4>Result Prediction&nbsp;-</h4>

<p>At Chepauk, the IPL 2024 opener will be played on the centre wicket, which traditionally assists spinners. Considering the spin depth in CSK, they will walk in as favourites against the travelling RCB side.</p>

<p><strong>Predicted Playing XIs –</strong></p>

<p><strong>CSK -</strong> Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Moeen Ali, Ajinkya Rahane, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (wk), Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar and Maheesh Theekshana</p>

<p><strong>RCB -</strong>&nbsp;Faf du Plessis (c), Cameron Green, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, Suyash Prabhudessai, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Alzarri Joseph, Mayank Dagar, Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj</p>


The 17th edition of the Indian Premier League is about to get underway, with two giants of the league – Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, slated to face off in the curtain-raiser at Chepauk on Friday (March 22).

The 17th edition of the Indian Premier League is about to get underway, with two giants of the league – Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, slated to face off in the curtain-raiser at Chepauk on Friday (March 22). While MS Dhoni relinquishing CSK’s captaincy on the eve of the IPL 2024 opener made headlines, the contest between the two powerhouses is one to look out for. Here is the match preview and result prediction of CSK vs RCB in IPL 2024. Will RCB break Chepauk jinx? The Royal Challengers Bangalore has never beaten Chennai at their home ground since 2008. With former CSK hero Faf du Plessis leading the RCB side against the home favourite, emotions and action will flare up. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: ‘You’ve to respect his decision’ – CSK CEO on MS Dhoni handing over captaincy to Gaikwad The travelling RCB side has a few new faces, with Australian all-rounder Cameron Green being an exciting addition to the squad. Veteran Virat Kohli is also returning to competitive cricket after nearly two months, and the fans in attendance will remain on their toes to watch some of the greats go up against each other. A new-look bowling attack, led by Mohammed Siraj, will have a lot riding on their shoulders as RCB aims to walk into Chepauk to end their losing run against CSK. CSK ready to flourish under new captain Gaikwad MS Dhoni handing over the IPL captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad sent shockwaves to everyone in the cricket world, with the announcement coming on the eve of IPL 2024. However, with a new face at the helm, Chennai Super Kings will embark on a new journey starting Friday at home. With the addition of the new players to the side, including the Kiwi pair of Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell and Indian youngster Sameer Rizvi, CSK has a lot to look forward to this season. Result Prediction - At Chepauk, the IPL 2024 opener will be played on the centre wicket, which traditionally assists spinners. Considering the spin depth in CSK, they will walk in as favourites against the travelling RCB side. Predicted Playing XIs – CSK - Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Moeen Ali, Ajinkya Rahane, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (wk), Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar and Maheesh Theekshana RCB - Faf du Plessis (c), Cameron Green, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, Suyash Prabhudessai, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Alzarri Joseph, Mayank Dagar, Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj

IPL 2024, Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Match 1: Match preview and result prediction

<p>In a sensational development on Thursday (Mar 21) afternoon, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) made a big announcement as skipper MS Dhoni stepped down from the captaincy on the eve of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. For the second time in three seasons, CSK, the joint-most successful franchise in the history of the tournament with five titles, opted to change captaincy with MS Dhoni stepping down to pave the way for Ruturaj Gaikwad to lead in IPL 2024. CSK head coach Stephen Fleming for the first time since the change in guard took to the media and opened up on the transition.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"Feels Good! It's a privilege!" - Captain Rutu 🗣️🦁 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yellove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yellove</a> 🦁💛 <a href="https://t.co/HPyWuEajIg">pic.twitter.com/HPyWuEajIg</a></p>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1770817078552928543?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Ruturaj replaces Fleming</strong></h2>

<p>"It was MS [Dhoni's decision] with a lot of consideration and one view to the future on the back of a good season last year," Fleming said at the press conference on Thursday. "The timing was good. Behind the scenes, Ruturaj and others have been on a, say, a captaincy-grooming process, looking forward to days like this and the opportunities come up, but MS is the best judge and he felt the time was right."</p>

<p>This is not the first time CSK have opted to change captaincy on the eve of the tournament, having opted to hand Ravindra Jadeja the armband in the 2022 season. The move did not materialise well and saw Dhoni return to lead the side after Jadeja’s poor spell as captain was coupled with injury.</p>

<p>However, this time it is predicted that CSK are well prepared for the change in role with MS Dhoni likely to play in his final season with the franchise. According to Fleming, CSK have been pragmatic and avoided a repeat of previous mistakes.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-full-updated-squad-ipl-2024-chennai-super-kings-probable-playing-xi-replacement-captain-schedule-702685">CSK Full Updated squad: IPL 2024, Chennai Super Kings probable playing XI, replacement, captain, schedule</a></p>

<p>"Well, the big thing about a couple of years ago was that we probably weren't ready for MS to move aside," Fleming said. "And what that did was probably shake us as a leadership group or coaches into looking at the possibility when he does go. And up until that stage, it was almost unthinkable, but it sowed the seed. So, we've worked pretty hard on making sure that any mistakes that were made during then aren't made again. And that the leadership isn't a secret."</p>

<h2><strong>CSK meet RCB in curtain raiser</strong></h2>

<p>The defending champions will raise the curtains for the IPL 2024 when they take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the MA&nbsp;Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. RCB have not won at the venue against CSK since the inaugural season in 2008. The match will start at 7:30 pm with the toss taking place at 7:00 pm. The opening ceremony will start at 6:00 pm with several stars, including AR Rahman set to perform.</p>


In a sensational development on Thursday (Mar 21) afternoon, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) made a big announcement as skipper MS Dhoni stepped down from the captaincy on the eve of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season.

In a sensational development on Thursday (Mar 21) afternoon, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) made a big announcement as skipper MS Dhoni stepped down from the captaincy on the eve of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. For the second time in three seasons, CSK, the joint-most successful franchise in the history of the tournament with five titles, opted to change captaincy with MS Dhoni stepping down to pave the way for Ruturaj Gaikwad to lead in IPL 2024. CSK head coach Stephen Fleming for the first time since the change in guard took to the media and opened up on the transition. "Feels Good! It's a privilege!" - Captain Rutu 🗣️🦁 #WhistlePodu #Yellove 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/HPyWuEajIg — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 21, 2024 × Ruturaj replaces Fleming "It was MS [Dhoni's decision] with a lot of consideration and one view to the future on the back of a good season last year," Fleming said at the press conference on Thursday. "The timing was good. Behind the scenes, Ruturaj and others have been on a, say, a captaincy-grooming process, looking forward to days like this and the opportunities come up, but MS is the best judge and he felt the time was right." This is not the first time CSK have opted to change captaincy on the eve of the tournament, having opted to hand Ravindra Jadeja the armband in the 2022 season. The move did not materialise well and saw Dhoni return to lead the side after Jadeja’s poor spell as captain was coupled with injury. However, this time it is predicted that CSK are well prepared for the change in role with MS Dhoni likely to play in his final season with the franchise. According to Fleming, CSK have been pragmatic and avoided a repeat of previous mistakes. ALSO READ | CSK Full Updated squad: IPL 2024, Chennai Super Kings probable playing XI, replacement, captain, schedule "Well, the big thing about a couple of years ago was that we probably weren't ready for MS to move aside," Fleming said. "And what that did was probably shake us as a leadership group or coaches into looking at the possibility when he does go. And up until that stage, it was almost unthinkable, but it sowed the seed. So, we've worked pretty hard on making sure that any mistakes that were made during then aren't made again. And that the leadership isn't a secret." CSK meet RCB in curtain raiser The defending champions will raise the curtains for the IPL 2024 when they take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. RCB have not won at the venue against CSK since the inaugural season in 2008. The match will start at 7:30 pm with the toss taking place at 7:00 pm. The opening ceremony will start at 6:00 pm with several stars, including AR Rahman set to perform.

IPL 2024: CSK head coach Stephen Fleming backs MS Dhoni's decision to step down, says 'the timing was good'

<p>Chennai Super Kings will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL 2024 curtain raiser at home, and cricket’s star boy Virat Kohli is excited for the Southern derby. Considered to be among the marquee matches in the tournament, CSK vs RCB is like the clash of the Titans. Speaking ahead of the opener on March 22 (Friday), Kohli said he cannot wait to take the field against CSK and meet his old teammate and former captain MS Dhoni.</p>

<p>"Playing against Chennai is obviously always a special occasion, a big game. You know, the Southern Derby, as they call it. Yeah, it's nice to play in front of very passionate Chennai fans, and yeah, good to catch up with MS Dhoni, it's been a while," Virat said on RCB’s bold diaries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Virat, being the top run-getter in the IPL&nbsp;with 7263 runs in 229 innings, including seven hundreds and 50 fifties, will be a threat to the home side in the IPL 2024 opener. Batting at the top alongside captain and former CSK hero Faf du Plessis, the pair will look to make it big and end RCB’s winless run in Chennai since 2008.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-there-wasnt-a-dry-eye-in-the-dressing-room-fleming-on-ms-dhonis-resignation-as-csk-captain-703080">IPL 2024: 'There wasn't a dry eye in the dressing room: Fleming on MS Dhoni's resignation as CSK captain</a></strong></p>

<p>Even last season, Virat starred with the bat in hand, slamming 639 runs at an average of 53.25 and a strike rate close to 140. While he was the fourth-highest run-scorer in the tournament, he failed to guide his team to the playoffs, as they finished outside the top four.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, with the addition of several new faces in the squad for this season, including overseas stars like Cameron Green, Alzarri Joseph, Tom Curran and Lockie Ferguson, RCB will look to turn the tables around and replicate what their women's team did this season, winning the tournament for the first time.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>RCB’s Full Squad for IPL 2024 –</h2>

<p>Faf du Plessis (c), Glenn Maxwell, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Anuj Rawat, Dinesh Karthik, Suyash Prabhudessai, Will Jacks, Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Manoj Bhandage, Mayank Dagar, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Reece Topley, Himanshu Sharma, Rajan Kumar, Cameron Green, Alzarri Joseph, Yash Dayal, Tom Curran, Lockie Ferguson, Swapnil Singh and Saurav Chauhan</p>


Chennai Super Kings will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL 2024 curtain raiser at home, and cricket’s star boy Virat Kohli is excited for the Southern derby.

Chennai Super Kings will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL 2024 curtain raiser at home, and cricket’s star boy Virat Kohli is excited for the Southern derby. Considered to be among the marquee matches in the tournament, CSK vs RCB is like the clash of the Titans. Speaking ahead of the opener on March 22 (Friday), Kohli said he cannot wait to take the field against CSK and meet his old teammate and former captain MS Dhoni. "Playing against Chennai is obviously always a special occasion, a big game. You know, the Southern Derby, as they call it. Yeah, it's nice to play in front of very passionate Chennai fans, and yeah, good to catch up with MS Dhoni, it's been a while," Virat said on RCB’s bold diaries. Meanwhile, Virat, being the top run-getter in the IPL with 7263 runs in 229 innings, including seven hundreds and 50 fifties, will be a threat to the home side in the IPL 2024 opener. Batting at the top alongside captain and former CSK hero Faf du Plessis, the pair will look to make it big and end RCB’s winless run in Chennai since 2008. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: 'There wasn't a dry eye in the dressing room: Fleming on MS Dhoni's resignation as CSK captain Even last season, Virat starred with the bat in hand, slamming 639 runs at an average of 53.25 and a strike rate close to 140. While he was the fourth-highest run-scorer in the tournament, he failed to guide his team to the playoffs, as they finished outside the top four. However, with the addition of several new faces in the squad for this season, including overseas stars like Cameron Green, Alzarri Joseph, Tom Curran and Lockie Ferguson, RCB will look to turn the tables around and replicate what their women's team did this season, winning the tournament for the first time. RCB’s Full Squad for IPL 2024 – Faf du Plessis (c), Glenn Maxwell, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Anuj Rawat, Dinesh Karthik, Suyash Prabhudessai, Will Jacks, Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Manoj Bhandage, Mayank Dagar, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Reece Topley, Himanshu Sharma, Rajan Kumar, Cameron Green, Alzarri Joseph, Yash Dayal, Tom Curran, Lockie Ferguson, Swapnil Singh and Saurav Chauhan

IPL 2024: ‘Good to catch up with MS Dhoni’ – RCB’s Virat Kohli excited for curtain raiser vs CSK

<p>On Thursday (March 21), the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) dropped a bomb by revealing that MS Dhoni has stepped down as the captain of the team. Ruturaj Gaikwad was named his successor and the young batter even attended the captains' photo shoot ahead of the season-opener, where CSK meet host Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Chennai on Friday evening (March 22).</p>

<h2><strong>'There wasn’t a dry eye in the dressing room. Everyone was moved'</strong></h2>

<p>Chennai head coach Stephen Fleming recalled the moment when Dhoni announced his decision with the team management. Before the season-opener, Fleming said at a press conference, "(When Dhoni broke the news) there was a lot of emotions. A whole lot of tears. There wasn’t a dry eye in the dressing room. Everyone was moved. Last time (when CSK changed the captain before IPL 2022) we weren’t as prepared for MS to move and for a change in leadership."</p>

<p>He added, "There was also a round of congratulations to Ruturaj. He isn’t the most vocal person, but he has qualities to lead us in the right direction."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-ahead-of-csk-vs-rcb-opener-sri-lankas-matheesha-pathirana-declared-fit-703064">IPL 2024: Ahead of CSK vs RCB opener, Sri Lanka's Matheesha Pathirana declared fit</a></strong></p>

<p>As per reports,&nbsp;Dhoni would be playing his last season in IPL 2024. Thus, Gaikwad will have Dhoni's presence in the playing XI and the latter will aim to groom his successor before stepping away totally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chennai, who lifted their fifth title in IPL 2023, are aiming to win their sixth trophy this time around and become the most successful team in IPL history.</p>

<h2><strong>Schedule:</strong></h2>

<p>Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore&nbsp; - March 22 - Chennai - 7:30 PM IST</p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings vs Gujarat Titans - March 26 - Chennai - 7:30 PM IST</p>

<p>Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings - March 31 - Vizag - 7:30 PM IST</p>

<p>Sunrisers Hyderabad&nbsp;vs Chennai Super Kings - April 5 - Hyderabad - 7:30 PM IST</p>

<p><strong>CSK squad for IPL 2024:&nbsp;</strong>MS Dhoni&nbsp;(wk), Moeen Ali, Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway (wk), Tushar Deshpande, Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Ajay Mandal, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Ajinkya Rahane, Shaik Rasheed, Mitchell Santner, Simarjeet Singh, Nishant Sindhu, Prashant Solanki, Matheesha&nbsp;Theekshana, Rachin Ravindra, Shardul Thakur, Daryl Mitchell, Sameer Rizvi, Mustafizur Rahman, Avanish Rao Aravelly</p>


On Thursday (March 21), the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) dropped a bomb by revealing that MS Dhoni has stepped down as the captain of the team. Ruturaj Gaikwad was named his successor and the young batter even attended the captains' photo shoot ahead of the season-opener, where CSK meet host Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Chennai on Friday evening (March 22).

On Thursday (March 21), the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) dropped a bomb by revealing that MS Dhoni has stepped down as the captain of the team. Ruturaj Gaikwad was named his successor and the young batter even attended the captains' photo shoot ahead of the season-opener, where CSK meet host Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Chennai on Friday evening (March 22). 'There wasn’t a dry eye in the dressing room. Everyone was moved' Chennai head coach Stephen Fleming recalled the moment when Dhoni announced his decision with the team management. Before the season-opener, Fleming said at a press conference, "(When Dhoni broke the news) there was a lot of emotions. A whole lot of tears. There wasn’t a dry eye in the dressing room. Everyone was moved. Last time (when CSK changed the captain before IPL 2022) we weren’t as prepared for MS to move and for a change in leadership." He added, "There was also a round of congratulations to Ruturaj. He isn’t the most vocal person, but he has qualities to lead us in the right direction." Also read: IPL 2024: Ahead of CSK vs RCB opener, Sri Lanka's Matheesha Pathirana declared fit As per reports, Dhoni would be playing his last season in IPL 2024. Thus, Gaikwad will have Dhoni's presence in the playing XI and the latter will aim to groom his successor before stepping away totally. Chennai, who lifted their fifth title in IPL 2023, are aiming to win their sixth trophy this time around and become the most successful team in IPL history. Schedule: Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore - March 22 - Chennai - 7:30 PM IST Chennai Super Kings vs Gujarat Titans - March 26 - Chennai - 7:30 PM IST Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings - March 31 - Vizag - 7:30 PM IST Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings - April 5 - Hyderabad - 7:30 PM IST CSK squad for IPL 2024: MS Dhoni (wk), Moeen Ali, Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway (wk), Tushar Deshpande, Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Ajay Mandal, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Ajinkya Rahane, Shaik Rasheed, Mitchell Santner, Simarjeet Singh, Nishant Sindhu, Prashant Solanki, Matheesha Theekshana, Rachin Ravindra, Shardul Thakur, Daryl Mitchell, Sameer Rizvi, Mustafizur Rahman, Avanish Rao Aravelly

IPL 2024: 'There wasn't a dry eye in the dressing room: Fleming on MS Dhoni's resignation as CSK captain

<p>The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season is all set for kickoff as defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will raise the roofs with a grand curtain raiser. The opening match will see two greats of the game, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli go head-to-head while Ruturaj Gaikwad and Faf du Plessis wear the captain&nbsp;armbands. Ahead of the contest, Du Plessis opened up on the Dhoni-Virat involvement in the opening match and why it will be the key attraction.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Game Day, RCB v CSK, Preview: It’s a blockbuster opening to this new chapter in the RCB heritage. Coach, Captain and his Comrades are geared up, and keen to begin the season Bold! 💪<br />
<br />
Watch the preview on <a href="https://twitter.com/bigbasket_com?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bigbasket_com</a> presents Game Day. Download the Big Basket App for more…… <a href="https://t.co/gntW9kHz2n">pic.twitter.com/gntW9kHz2n</a></p>
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<h2><strong>Faf highlights Dhoni-Virat attraction</strong></h2>

<p>"It has been a really great week, Andy and Mo have done some incredible things. We really gel together as a squad, so it has been good preparation. Obviously, what better way can you start the IPL, than the game you have tomorrow, two of India's greatest - MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli in the opening match of the IPL, so everyone is just excited for the game," Faf said in a video released by RCB.</p>

<p>Friday’s meeting will be a special occasion for Virat and Dhoni, who remain one of the seven players to have played in every season of the IPL. Dhoni will be in his 15th season with CSK as he remains the only player to play every season for the franchise. Similarly, Virat will be in his 17th season with RCB and remains the only one-club player to have played every season of IPL.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-full-updated-squad-ipl-2024-chennai-super-kings-probable-playing-xi-replacement-captain-schedule-702685">CSK Full Updated squad: IPL 2024, Chennai Super Kings probable playing XI, replacement, captain, schedule</a></p>

<p>Both Dhoni and Virat played in the CSK vs RCB meeting in the inaugural season of the IPL, which to date remains the only time Bengaluru beat Chennai at the MA&nbsp;Chidambaram Stadium. The match will start at 7:30 pm with the toss taking place at 7:00 pm. The opening ceremony will start at 6:00 pm, with stars like AR Rahman set to perform.</p>

<h2><strong>CSK IPL 2024 Squad</strong></h2>

<p>MS Dhoni (wk), Moeen Ali, Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway (wk), Tushar Deshpande, Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Ajay Mandal, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Ajinkya Rahane, Shaik Rasheed, Mitchell Santner, Simarjeet Singh, Nishant Sindhu, Prashant Solanki, Matheesha Theekshana, Rachin Ravindra, Shardul Thakur, Daryl Mitchell, Sameer Rizvi, Mustafizur Rahman, Avanish Rao Aravelly</p>


The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season is all set for kickoff as defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will raise the roofs with a grand curtain raiser.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season is all set for kickoff as defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will raise the roofs with a grand curtain raiser. The opening match will see two greats of the game, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli go head-to-head while Ruturaj Gaikwad and Faf du Plessis wear the captain armbands. Ahead of the contest, Du Plessis opened up on the Dhoni-Virat involvement in the opening match and why it will be the key attraction. Game Day, RCB v CSK, Preview: It’s a blockbuster opening to this new chapter in the RCB heritage. Coach, Captain and his Comrades are geared up, and keen to begin the season Bold! 💪 Watch the preview on @bigbasket_com presents Game Day. Download the Big Basket App for more…… pic.twitter.com/gntW9kHz2n — Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) March 22, 2024 × Faf highlights Dhoni-Virat attraction "It has been a really great week, Andy and Mo have done some incredible things. We really gel together as a squad, so it has been good preparation. Obviously, what better way can you start the IPL, than the game you have tomorrow, two of India's greatest - MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli in the opening match of the IPL, so everyone is just excited for the game," Faf said in a video released by RCB. Friday’s meeting will be a special occasion for Virat and Dhoni, who remain one of the seven players to have played in every season of the IPL. Dhoni will be in his 15th season with CSK as he remains the only player to play every season for the franchise. Similarly, Virat will be in his 17th season with RCB and remains the only one-club player to have played every season of IPL. ALSO READ | CSK Full Updated squad: IPL 2024, Chennai Super Kings probable playing XI, replacement, captain, schedule Both Dhoni and Virat played in the CSK vs RCB meeting in the inaugural season of the IPL, which to date remains the only time Bengaluru beat Chennai at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. The match will start at 7:30 pm with the toss taking place at 7:00 pm. The opening ceremony will start at 6:00 pm, with stars like AR Rahman set to perform. CSK IPL 2024 Squad MS Dhoni (wk), Moeen Ali, Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway (wk), Tushar Deshpande, Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Ajay Mandal, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Ajinkya Rahane, Shaik Rasheed, Mitchell Santner, Simarjeet Singh, Nishant Sindhu, Prashant Solanki, Matheesha Theekshana, Rachin Ravindra, Shardul Thakur, Daryl Mitchell, Sameer Rizvi, Mustafizur Rahman, Avanish Rao Aravelly

IPL 2024: Faf du Plessis excited ahead of CSK vs RCB curtain raiser; says Dhoni, Virat are key attractions

<p>There is a lot of news coming from the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp ahead of the IPL 2024 curtain raiser, where the Yellow Army will host Royal Challengers Bengaluru&nbsp;(RCB) in Chennai on Friday (March 22). While on Thursday (March 21), it was confirmed that Ruturaj Gaikwad has succeeded MS Dhoni as the CSK captain, another important update has emerged for the Chennai fans. Matheesha Pathirana, Sri Lanka's young pacer, has been declared fit ahead of the season-opener.</p>

<p>Pathirana, who ended with 19 wickets&nbsp;in IPL 2023 (third-most for CSK), suffered a hamstring tear (Grade 1) during Sri Lanka's tour of Bangladesh. He got injured during the second and penultimate T20I and has been away from action since then. Now, his manager confirmed, on X, that he has been declared fit.</p>

<p><i>“The answer to ‘Where's Pathirana’. He is fit and ready to throw Thunder balls. Be ready. Finally a together with the Legend,”</i>&nbsp;Kalugalage wrote on Friday. <strong>Here is the post:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The answer to "Where's Pathirana"<br />
<br />
He is fit and ready to throw Thunder ⚡ balls. Be ready 💣.<br />
Finally a 📸 together with the Legend <a href="https://twitter.com/matheesha_9?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@matheesha_9</a> 😄 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/csk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#csk</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/JKsv9gacWm">pic.twitter.com/JKsv9gacWm</a></p>
— Amila Kalugalage (@akalugalage) <a href="https://twitter.com/akalugalage/status/1771024855242248681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-ruturaj-gaikwad-reveals-ms-dhoni-told-him-to-be-ready-for-csk-captaincy-in-2023-702994">IPL 2024: Ruturaj Gaikwad reveals MS Dhoni told him to 'be ready' for CSK captaincy in 2023</a></strong></p>

<p>Pathirana is, however, expected to join the CSK setup only after he gets a clearance from the Sri Lanka&nbsp; Cricket Board (SLC). Earlier, it was reported that the 21-year-old would miss 2-3 games due to&nbsp;injury. However, CSK fans would hope for his early appearance in the IPL 2024 edition.</p>

<p>On Friday evening, CSK and RCB will lock horns and kickoff the 17th season of the cash-rich league. The match will mark the commencement of the Gaikwad-era in the Chennai setup with Dhoni stepping away from captaincy duties.</p>

<p><strong>CSK squad for IPL 2024:&nbsp;</strong>MS Dhoni&nbsp;(wk), Moeen Ali, Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway (wk), Tushar Deshpande, Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Ajay Mandal, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Ajinkya Rahane, Shaik Rasheed, Mitchell Santner, Simarjeet Singh, Nishant Sindhu, Prashant Solanki, Matheesha&nbsp;Theekshana, Rachin Ravindra, Shardul Thakur, Daryl Mitchell, Sameer Rizvi, Mustafizur Rahman, Avanish Rao Aravelly</p>


There is a lot of news coming from the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp ahead of the IPL 2024 curtain raiser, where the Yellow Army will host Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Chennai on Friday (March 22).

There is a lot of news coming from the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp ahead of the IPL 2024 curtain raiser, where the Yellow Army will host Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Chennai on Friday (March 22). While on Thursday (March 21), it was confirmed that Ruturaj Gaikwad has succeeded MS Dhoni as the CSK captain, another important update has emerged for the Chennai fans. Matheesha Pathirana, Sri Lanka's young pacer, has been declared fit ahead of the season-opener. Pathirana, who ended with 19 wickets in IPL 2023 (third-most for CSK), suffered a hamstring tear (Grade 1) during Sri Lanka's tour of Bangladesh. He got injured during the second and penultimate T20I and has been away from action since then. Now, his manager confirmed, on X, that he has been declared fit. “The answer to ‘Where's Pathirana’. He is fit and ready to throw Thunder balls. Be ready. Finally a together with the Legend,” Kalugalage wrote on Friday. Here is the post: The answer to "Where's Pathirana" He is fit and ready to throw Thunder ⚡ balls. Be ready 💣. Finally a 📸 together with the Legend @matheesha_9 😄 #WhistlePodu #csk #IPL2024 pic.twitter.com/JKsv9gacWm — Amila Kalugalage (@akalugalage) March 22, 2024 × Also read: IPL 2024: Ruturaj Gaikwad reveals MS Dhoni told him to 'be ready' for CSK captaincy in 2023 Pathirana is, however, expected to join the CSK setup only after he gets a clearance from the Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC). Earlier, it was reported that the 21-year-old would miss 2-3 games due to injury. However, CSK fans would hope for his early appearance in the IPL 2024 edition. On Friday evening, CSK and RCB will lock horns and kickoff the 17th season of the cash-rich league. The match will mark the commencement of the Gaikwad-era in the Chennai setup with Dhoni stepping away from captaincy duties. CSK squad for IPL 2024: MS Dhoni (wk), Moeen Ali, Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway (wk), Tushar Deshpande, Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Ajay Mandal, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Ajinkya Rahane, Shaik Rasheed, Mitchell Santner, Simarjeet Singh, Nishant Sindhu, Prashant Solanki, Matheesha Theekshana, Rachin Ravindra, Shardul Thakur, Daryl Mitchell, Sameer Rizvi, Mustafizur Rahman, Avanish Rao Aravelly

IPL 2024: Ahead of CSK vs RCB opener, Sri Lanka's Matheesha Pathirana declared fit

<p>On Thursday (March 21), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) dropped a bomb by revealing that Ruturaj Gaikwad will succeed MS Dhoni as the Chennai captain ahead of the IPL 2024 opener, where the Yellow Army host Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Notably, Gaikwad made heads turn when he showed up during the captains' photo shoot before the announcement was made.</p>

<h2><strong>'Be ready, it shouldn't come as a surprise to you'</strong></h2>

<p>Gaikwad revealed that Dhoni had&nbsp;hinted at a&nbsp;captaincy change during IPL 2023 itself. In a video shared on CSK's official handle on X, formerly Twitter, he said, "I don't think so I need to change anything. Last year itself, Mahi bhai had just hinted about captaincy at some point in time. Just hinted that 'be ready, it shouldn't come as a surprise to you.'"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What it means! 🗣️💛<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yellove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yellove</a> 🦁💛<br />
<br />
<a href="https://t.co/WCLqVI4xyU">pic.twitter.com/WCLqVI4xyU</a></p>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1771023597454172539?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-captaincy-chennai-super-kings-ipl-2024-ruturaj-gaikwad-indian-premier-league-csk-vs-rcb-stephen-fleming-702920">IPL 2024: CSK head coach Stephen Fleming backs MS Dhoni's decision to step down, says 'the timing was good'</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, "I remember him posting about the new role on social media. Everybody was just pointing towards me and asking me, 'whether you are the next captain.'&nbsp;I was like maybe it meant something else for social media or something."</p>

<p>"Back of the mind it was there, but then he came in a week ago and said he had decided this. But definitely, now that I am here, I am definitely looking forward to it."</p>

<p>Gaikwad has become a prominent face in the CSK setup since being a part of them in 2020. In four seasons, the right-hander has&nbsp;1,797 runs at a strike rate of&nbsp;135.52, including 14 fifties and a ton. He has a herculean task to take the mantle forward from Dhoni. However, he will have the presence of the legendary figure in the playing XI during the forthcoming season and will hope to make the most of his input.</p>

<p>IPL 2024 kicks off on Friday evening with CSK hosting RCB at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.</p>

<p><strong>CSK squad for IPL 2024:&nbsp;</strong>MS Dhoni&nbsp;(wk), Moeen Ali, Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway (wk), Tushar Deshpande, Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Ajay Mandal, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Ajinkya Rahane, Shaik Rasheed, Mitchell Santner, Simarjeet Singh, Nishant Sindhu, Prashant Solanki, Matheesha&nbsp;Theekshana, Rachin Ravindra, Shardul Thakur, Daryl Mitchell, Sameer Rizvi, Mustafizur Rahman, Avanish Rao Aravelly</p>


On Thursday (March 21), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) dropped a bomb by revealing that Ruturaj Gaikwad will succeed MS Dhoni as the Chennai captain ahead of the IPL 2024 opener, where the Yellow Army host Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

On Thursday (March 21), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) dropped a bomb by revealing that Ruturaj Gaikwad will succeed MS Dhoni as the Chennai captain ahead of the IPL 2024 opener, where the Yellow Army host Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Notably, Gaikwad made heads turn when he showed up during the captains' photo shoot before the announcement was made. 'Be ready, it shouldn't come as a surprise to you' Gaikwad revealed that Dhoni had hinted at a captaincy change during IPL 2023 itself. In a video shared on CSK's official handle on X, formerly Twitter, he said, "I don't think so I need to change anything. Last year itself, Mahi bhai had just hinted about captaincy at some point in time. Just hinted that 'be ready, it shouldn't come as a surprise to you.'" What it means! 🗣️💛#WhistlePodu #Yellove 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/WCLqVI4xyU — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 22, 2024 × Also read: IPL 2024: CSK head coach Stephen Fleming backs MS Dhoni's decision to step down, says 'the timing was good' He added, "I remember him posting about the new role on social media. Everybody was just pointing towards me and asking me, 'whether you are the next captain.' I was like maybe it meant something else for social media or something." "Back of the mind it was there, but then he came in a week ago and said he had decided this. But definitely, now that I am here, I am definitely looking forward to it." Gaikwad has become a prominent face in the CSK setup since being a part of them in 2020. In four seasons, the right-hander has 1,797 runs at a strike rate of 135.52, including 14 fifties and a ton. He has a herculean task to take the mantle forward from Dhoni. However, he will have the presence of the legendary figure in the playing XI during the forthcoming season and will hope to make the most of his input. IPL 2024 kicks off on Friday evening with CSK hosting RCB at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. CSK squad for IPL 2024: MS Dhoni (wk), Moeen Ali, Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway (wk), Tushar Deshpande, Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Ajay Mandal, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Ajinkya Rahane, Shaik Rasheed, Mitchell Santner, Simarjeet Singh, Nishant Sindhu, Prashant Solanki, Matheesha Theekshana, Rachin Ravindra, Shardul Thakur, Daryl Mitchell, Sameer Rizvi, Mustafizur Rahman, Avanish Rao Aravelly

IPL 2024: Ruturaj Gaikwad reveals MS Dhoni told him to 'be ready' for CSK captaincy in 2023

<p>Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the Chennai Super Kings star, on Thursday (March 21) relinquished IPL captaincy by&nbsp;handing over the baton to CSK opener Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of IPL 2024, starting on March 22 in Chennai. MS Dhoni, as fans worldwide recognise him, took a call to pick Gaikwad to fill in his shoes at CSK just one day before the start of the marquee tournament, the franchise's official announcement read.</p>

<p>Upon reaching out to the CSK's CEO, Kasi Viswanathan, for comments on the same, CSK’s backroom staff veteran revealed that he also knew about Dhoni relinquishing his IPL captaincy just before the captain’s meet. He insisted that Dhoni's decision is always in the team’s interest and should be respected.</p>

<p>"Whatever Dhoni does, it is in the best interest of the team. I got to know of the decision just before the captains' meeting. You have to respect his decision, it is his call," CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan told PTI.</p>

<p>Upon getting picked by CSK during the maiden IPL auction in 2008 for over a million dollars, MS Dhoni captained the side for 14 years, leading the franchise to five IPL titles, joint-most with Mumbai Indians in the tournament history.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-ms-dhonis-glorious-captaincy-run-at-csk-from-a-master-to-thala-702675">IPL 2024: MS Dhoni’s glorious captaincy run at CSK – from a Master to Thala</a></strong></p>

<p>After failing to do it in the first two seasons, Dhoni-led CSK won IPL titles in 2010 and 2011. Chennai Super Kings then lost three finals in four straight seasons before facing a two-year suspension on fixing charges. A grand return to the league in 2018 saw them winning their third title that season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A close loss by just one run at the hands of MI in 2019 shattered their dreams, but CSK returned in 2021 to win their fourth title. Although they suffered a dismal fate the following season in 2022, finishing in the bottom half of the points table, CSK won the IPL title last year, which happened to be the last under MS Dhoni.</p>

<h2>Gaikwad – the new leader!</h2>

<p>Having tried passing on the baton in 2022, with Ravindra Jadeja chosen as the new captain ahead of the season, MS Dhoni had to quickly get back to leading the side midway through the tournament.</p>

<p>"It didn't work out at that time, this is different," said Viswanathan of Jadeja replacing Dhoni as IPL captain in 2022.</p>

<p>Two years later, with Dhoni’s time running out in the IPL, given his age, he had to pick his successor, and Gaikwad was the one he chose.&nbsp;</p>

<p>CSK head coach Stephen Fleming also commented on the same, saying. "We weren't ready to move away from MS in 2022. Dhoni has a good sense of the game, but we want to develop the young players for the role. We are well prepared this time."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Gaikwad, the right-handed opener made his IPL debut in 2020 and has featured in 52 matches, hitting 1797 runs at 39.07. He has scored 14 fifties and a hundred.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the curtain-raiser on March 22 in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>


Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the Chennai Super Kings star, on Thursday (March 21) relinquished IPL captaincy by handing over the baton to CSK opener Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of IPL 2024, starting on March 22 in Chennai.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the Chennai Super Kings star, on Thursday (March 21) relinquished IPL captaincy by handing over the baton to CSK opener Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of IPL 2024, starting on March 22 in Chennai. MS Dhoni, as fans worldwide recognise him, took a call to pick Gaikwad to fill in his shoes at CSK just one day before the start of the marquee tournament, the franchise's official announcement read. Upon reaching out to the CSK's CEO, Kasi Viswanathan, for comments on the same, CSK’s backroom staff veteran revealed that he also knew about Dhoni relinquishing his IPL captaincy just before the captain’s meet. He insisted that Dhoni's decision is always in the team’s interest and should be respected. "Whatever Dhoni does, it is in the best interest of the team. I got to know of the decision just before the captains' meeting. You have to respect his decision, it is his call," CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan told PTI. Upon getting picked by CSK during the maiden IPL auction in 2008 for over a million dollars, MS Dhoni captained the side for 14 years, leading the franchise to five IPL titles, joint-most with Mumbai Indians in the tournament history. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: MS Dhoni’s glorious captaincy run at CSK – from a Master to Thala After failing to do it in the first two seasons, Dhoni-led CSK won IPL titles in 2010 and 2011. Chennai Super Kings then lost three finals in four straight seasons before facing a two-year suspension on fixing charges. A grand return to the league in 2018 saw them winning their third title that season. A close loss by just one run at the hands of MI in 2019 shattered their dreams, but CSK returned in 2021 to win their fourth title. Although they suffered a dismal fate the following season in 2022, finishing in the bottom half of the points table, CSK won the IPL title last year, which happened to be the last under MS Dhoni. Gaikwad – the new leader! Having tried passing on the baton in 2022, with Ravindra Jadeja chosen as the new captain ahead of the season, MS Dhoni had to quickly get back to leading the side midway through the tournament. "It didn't work out at that time, this is different," said Viswanathan of Jadeja replacing Dhoni as IPL captain in 2022. Two years later, with Dhoni’s time running out in the IPL, given his age, he had to pick his successor, and Gaikwad was the one he chose. CSK head coach Stephen Fleming also commented on the same, saying. "We weren't ready to move away from MS in 2022. Dhoni has a good sense of the game, but we want to develop the young players for the role. We are well prepared this time." Meanwhile, Gaikwad, the right-handed opener made his IPL debut in 2020 and has featured in 52 matches, hitting 1797 runs at 39.07. He has scored 14 fifties and a hundred. Chennai Super Kings will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the curtain-raiser on March 22 in Chennai.

IPL 2024: ‘You’ve to respect his decision’ – CSK CEO on MS Dhoni handing over captaincy to Gaikwad

<p>MS Dhoni's decision to hand over the captaincy duties to Ruturaj Gaikwad on the eve of Chennai Super King's IPL 2024 opener has come as a shock to fans and rivals alike. Dhoni led CSK since its inception in 2008 and finishes&nbsp;off, arguably, as the greatest captain the tournament has ever seen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gaikwad, who opens the innings for CSK will be the second player after Ravindra Jadeja to have been handed the captain's armband by MS Dhoni. The all-rounder (Jadeja) was handed the responsibility in 2022 before giving it back to Dhoni, midway into the season.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It's typically MS. But a bombshell no less! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2024</a></p>
— Soorya Sesha (@sooryasesha7) <a href="https://twitter.com/sooryasesha7/status/1770761197077348597?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">End of an era. 💔<br />
<br />
MS Dhoni - Will always be one of the greatest captains in IPL history. <a href="https://t.co/UsdMvlMZGb">pic.twitter.com/UsdMvlMZGb</a></p>
— Vishal. (@SPORTYVISHAL) <a href="https://twitter.com/SPORTYVISHAL/status/1770757245199946214?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Former CSK player Irfan Pathan compared Dhoni's leadership to that of a supernova and said it will be remembered for decades to come.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In the ever-expanding galaxy of cricket, MS Dhoni’s legacy as CSK’s leader shines bright, akin to a supernova, illuminating the path for the franchise with unparalleled brilliance and allure. His leadership will be remembered for decades to come. Good luck Ruturaj for your new…</p>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1770766251708518568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">-MS Dhoni's final match as the captain these scenes..🥹<br />
<br />
- END OF AN ERA IN IPL...!!!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBvsCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvsCSK</a> <a href="https://t.co/nKGIq4M4tq">pic.twitter.com/nKGIq4M4tq</a></p>
— KIRTHIC (@_JustNow) <a href="https://twitter.com/_JustNow/status/1770766693792374848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">-MS Dhoni's final match as the captain these scenes..🥹<br />
<br />
- END OF AN ERA IN IPL...!!!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBvsCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvsCSK</a> <a href="https://t.co/nKGIq4M4tq">pic.twitter.com/nKGIq4M4tq</a></p>
— KIRTHIC (@_JustNow) <a href="https://twitter.com/_JustNow/status/1770766693792374848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Now I can say that, My childhood has officially ended. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/U9m56aOds7">pic.twitter.com/U9m56aOds7</a></p>
— Mayur Jain (@MAYUR448) <a href="https://twitter.com/MAYUR448/status/1770760808277938290?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">THE GREATEST CAPTAIN IN CRICKET HISTORY.<br />
<br />
- Thank you, MS Dhoni. 🏆<a href="https://t.co/HcHulamZW3">pic.twitter.com/HcHulamZW3</a></p>
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1770762276158492733?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-ms-dhonis-glorious-captaincy-run-at-csk-from-a-master-to-thala-702675"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;IPL 2024: MS Dhoni’s glorious captaincy run at CSK – from a Master to Thala</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>What did CSK announce?</strong></h2>

<p>"MS Dhoni has handed over Chennai Super Kings’ captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the start of TATA IPL 2024," CSK said in an official statement.</p>

<p>"Ruturaj has been an integral part of Chennai Super Kings since 2019 and has played 52 matches in IPL during this period. The team looks forward to the upcoming season," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni guided CSK to a record-equalling fifth title last season despite suffering from a wobbly knee throughout the tournament. At the time, many wondered if it would be the last swansong for him but the former Indian captain said he would return the next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-ruturaj-gaikwad-replaces-ms-dhoni-as-chennai-super-kings-captain-702645"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;IPL 2024: MS Dhoni steps down as CSK captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad announced as replacement</strong></a></p>

<p>Having given up the captaincy, experts are of the view that the 2024 season could be the last time the 42-year-old&nbsp;Dhoni takes to the field to don the iconic canary-yellow jersey.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>CSK squad for IPL 2024:</strong>&nbsp;MS Dhoni, Devon Conway, Avanish Rao Aravelly, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shaik Rasheed, Ajinkya Rahane, Sameer Rizvi, Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mitchell Santner, Ajay Mandal, Nishant Sindhu, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Matheesha Pathirana, Simarjeet Singh, Prashant Solanki, Maheesh Theekshana, Mustafizur Rahman, Mukesh Choudhary</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


MS Dhoni's decision to hand over the captaincy duties to Ruturaj Gaikwad on the eve of Chennai Super King's IPL 2024 opener has come as a shock to fans and rivals alike.

MS Dhoni's decision to hand over the captaincy duties to Ruturaj Gaikwad on the eve of Chennai Super King's IPL 2024 opener has come as a shock to fans and rivals alike. Dhoni led CSK since its inception in 2008 and finishes off, arguably, as the greatest captain the tournament has ever seen. Gaikwad, who opens the innings for CSK will be the second player after Ravindra Jadeja to have been handed the captain's armband by MS Dhoni. The all-rounder (Jadeja) was handed the responsibility in 2022 before giving it back to Dhoni, midway into the season. It's typically MS. But a bombshell no less! #IPL2024 — Soorya Sesha (@sooryasesha7) March 21, 2024 × End of an era. 💔 MS Dhoni - Will always be one of the greatest captains in IPL history. pic.twitter.com/UsdMvlMZGb — Vishal. (@SPORTYVISHAL) March 21, 2024 × Former CSK player Irfan Pathan compared Dhoni's leadership to that of a supernova and said it will be remembered for decades to come. In the ever-expanding galaxy of cricket, MS Dhoni’s legacy as CSK’s leader shines bright, akin to a supernova, illuminating the path for the franchise with unparalleled brilliance and allure. His leadership will be remembered for decades to come. Good luck Ruturaj for your new… — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) March 21, 2024 × -MS Dhoni's final match as the captain these scenes..🥹 - END OF AN ERA IN IPL...!!!#MSDhoni #RCBvsCSK pic.twitter.com/nKGIq4M4tq — KIRTHIC (@_JustNow) March 21, 2024 × -MS Dhoni's final match as the captain these scenes..🥹 - END OF AN ERA IN IPL...!!!#MSDhoni #RCBvsCSK pic.twitter.com/nKGIq4M4tq — KIRTHIC (@_JustNow) March 21, 2024 × Now I can say that, My childhood has officially ended. #MSDhoni pic.twitter.com/U9m56aOds7 — Mayur Jain (@MAYUR448) March 21, 2024 × THE GREATEST CAPTAIN IN CRICKET HISTORY. - Thank you, MS Dhoni. 🏆pic.twitter.com/HcHulamZW3 — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) March 21, 2024 × Also read | IPL 2024: MS Dhoni’s glorious captaincy run at CSK – from a Master to Thala What did CSK announce? "MS Dhoni has handed over Chennai Super Kings’ captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the start of TATA IPL 2024," CSK said in an official statement. "Ruturaj has been an integral part of Chennai Super Kings since 2019 and has played 52 matches in IPL during this period. The team looks forward to the upcoming season," it added. Dhoni guided CSK to a record-equalling fifth title last season despite suffering from a wobbly knee throughout the tournament. At the time, many wondered if it would be the last swansong for him but the former Indian captain said he would return the next year. Also read | IPL 2024: MS Dhoni steps down as CSK captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad announced as replacement Having given up the captaincy, experts are of the view that the 2024 season could be the last time the 42-year-old Dhoni takes to the field to don the iconic canary-yellow jersey. CSK squad for IPL 2024: MS Dhoni, Devon Conway, Avanish Rao Aravelly, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shaik Rasheed, Ajinkya Rahane, Sameer Rizvi, Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mitchell Santner, Ajay Mandal, Nishant Sindhu, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Matheesha Pathirana, Simarjeet Singh, Prashant Solanki, Maheesh Theekshana, Mustafizur Rahman, Mukesh Choudhary (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2024: Fans reminisce end of an era as MS Dhoni gives up CSK captaincy

<p>Chennai Super Kings have appointed Ruturaj Gaikwad as the new captain, replacing talismanic skipper MS Dhoni who led the franchise since its inception in 2008. The former Indian captain will continue to be part of the squad, at least for this season.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>MS Dhoni steps down as CSK captain</strong></h2>

<p>The announcement was made on the eve of CSK's opening match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. The news has come as a shock to CSK and MS Dhoni supporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"MS Dhoni has handed over Chennai Super Kings’ captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the start of TATA IPL 2024," CSK said in an official statement.</p>

<p>"Ruturaj has been an integral part of Chennai Super Kings since 2019 and has played 52 matches in IPL during this period. The team looks forward to the upcoming season," it added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">OFFICIAL STATEMENT: MS Dhoni hands over captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yellove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yellove</a></p>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1770760276972810687?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ruturaj Gaikwad named new captain of Chennai Super Kings&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Dhoni had&nbsp;been leading the CSK camp since 2008. Under him, Chennai had won as many as five titles, the latest coming in the 2023 edition. CSK has&nbsp;entered the playoffs in every season barring 2020 and 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni guided CSK to a record-equalling fifth title last season despite suffering from a wobbly knee throughout the tournament. At the time, many wondered if it would be the last swansong for him but the former Indian captain said he would return the next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, this is not the first instance when Dhoni has handed the captaincy armband to another player. During the 2022 season, Dhoni briefly handed the captaincy duties to all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja before returning to helm and guiding the team to victory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Having given up the captaincy, experts are of the view that the 2024 season could be the last time 42-year-old&nbsp;Dhoni takes to the field to don the iconic canary-yellow jersey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni's departure brings an end to an era of dominance which was engineered by him and head coach Stephen Fleming. The return to IPL in 2018 after a two-year ban and winning the trophy remains one of the biggest talking point in CSK's history under Dhoni.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>CSK squad for IPL 2024:</strong>&nbsp;MS Dhoni, Devon Conway, Avanish Rao Aravelly, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shaik Rasheed, Ajinkya Rahane, Sameer Rizvi, Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mitchell Santner, Ajay Mandal, Nishant Sindhu, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Matheesha Pathirana, Simarjeet Singh, Prashant Solanki, Maheesh Theekshana, Mustafizur Rahman, Mukesh Choudhary</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Chennai Super Kings have appointed Ruturaj Gaikwad as the new captain, replacing talismanic skipper MS Dhoni who led the franchise since its inception in 2008. The former Indian captain will continue to be part of the squad, at least for this season.

Chennai Super Kings have appointed Ruturaj Gaikwad as the new captain, replacing talismanic skipper MS Dhoni who led the franchise since its inception in 2008. The former Indian captain will continue to be part of the squad, at least for this season. MS Dhoni steps down as CSK captain The announcement was made on the eve of CSK's opening match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. The news has come as a shock to CSK and MS Dhoni supporters. "MS Dhoni has handed over Chennai Super Kings’ captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the start of TATA IPL 2024," CSK said in an official statement. "Ruturaj has been an integral part of Chennai Super Kings since 2019 and has played 52 matches in IPL during this period. The team looks forward to the upcoming season," it added. OFFICIAL STATEMENT: MS Dhoni hands over captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad. #WhistlePodu #Yellove — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 21, 2024 × Ruturaj Gaikwad named new captain of Chennai Super Kings Dhoni had been leading the CSK camp since 2008. Under him, Chennai had won as many as five titles, the latest coming in the 2023 edition. CSK has entered the playoffs in every season barring 2020 and 2022. Dhoni guided CSK to a record-equalling fifth title last season despite suffering from a wobbly knee throughout the tournament. At the time, many wondered if it would be the last swansong for him but the former Indian captain said he would return the next year. Notably, this is not the first instance when Dhoni has handed the captaincy armband to another player. During the 2022 season, Dhoni briefly handed the captaincy duties to all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja before returning to helm and guiding the team to victory. Having given up the captaincy, experts are of the view that the 2024 season could be the last time 42-year-old Dhoni takes to the field to don the iconic canary-yellow jersey. Dhoni's departure brings an end to an era of dominance which was engineered by him and head coach Stephen Fleming. The return to IPL in 2018 after a two-year ban and winning the trophy remains one of the biggest talking point in CSK's history under Dhoni. CSK squad for IPL 2024: MS Dhoni, Devon Conway, Avanish Rao Aravelly, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shaik Rasheed, Ajinkya Rahane, Sameer Rizvi, Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mitchell Santner, Ajay Mandal, Nishant Sindhu, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Matheesha Pathirana, Simarjeet Singh, Prashant Solanki, Maheesh Theekshana, Mustafizur Rahman, Mukesh Choudhary (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2024: MS Dhoni steps down as CSK captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad announced as replacement

In PICS | MS Dhoni’s Captaincy Run at CSK in IPL

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