Updated: October 10
When we talk about players who have been role models for billions of cricket fans across the globe, one name will always be among the top. He is the superstar from India, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, often called “Maahi.” Dhoni is one of the reasons why IPL has garnered massive popularity in India and even across the globe.
MSD is the only IPL player who has captained an IPL team for the most number seasons. Dhoni is the captain of Chennai Super Kings since its inception in the year 2008. If we don’t count the two years when CSK was barred from playing the IPL due to match-fixing issues, Dhoni has led the team in all seasons.
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Dhoni And CSK Connection
Dhoni has been an inspirational captain for CSK. Under his captaincy, the team has won three IPL trophies and ranks in the second position. However, if we talk about the most consistent IPL team, then CSK tops the list. This speaks volumes about how Dhoni has guided the entire team and has been the hallmark of CSK’s success. We can say that CSK is incomplete without Dhoni.
If we talk about his batting performance in the IPL, it’s ironic that Dhoni has not scored even a single century playing for CSK. Still, he is the most popular Indian player in the IPL. Even Virat Kohli has not been able to match his popularity meter. The fan following which MSD has is unmatched.
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The crazy fans go gaga seeing any activity Dhoni does. Whether we talk about his hairstyle or his dressing sense, everything is followed like a hot cake by his fans. Dhoni may not be among the top scorers in IPL, but he is still the most incredible match-winner India has ever produced in Test, ODI, and the IPL.
There is speculation in the cricket arena that VIVO IPL 2021 will be the last season when we see Dhoni playing in the IPL. Because he has already turned 40 and his reflexes have reduced considerably.
We all know the credibility of MSD, and the moment he realizes that he is starting to become even a 1% burden for the team, Dhoni will hang his boots instantly. So, this will be a golden opportunity for MS Dhoni to lead CSK to their fourth IPL title, and the team will like to give him a memorable send-off.
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Chances of CSK winning IPL 2021 Trophy
IPL 2020 was an unforgettable season for CSK. The most consistent IPL team even failed to reach the playoff stage. However, when we see the performance of CSK in this IPL season, where they are sitting in the second position in IPL 2021 points table, having won 9 matches in the 14 played so far, it seems they have forgotten the dismal performance of the last season and are on course to reach the playoff.
The team is playing like a unit, and every player has risen to the occasion in some match or the other. Dhoni has not scored many runs in this IPL season. Still, his captaincy has been exceptional. So the fans are optimistic that they will again witness Dhoni lifting the IPL trophy for CSK.
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Hurdles for CSK in winning IPL 2021 Trophy
It will not be a bed of roses for CSK if they think about winning IPL 2021 in UAE. Instead, it will be a thorn of obstacles. The two most essential thorns will be Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bangalore. Under the leadership of young Rishabh Pant, DC is the table toppers in this IPL season, winning 10 matches from 14 played on the league stage. They have played outstanding cricket, and the young player’s performance can guide DC to glory.
On the other hand, Royal Challengers Bangalore are also looking very dangerous this season. They have fired from all cylinders and played as a combined unit, which they lacked in the previous seasons. Kohli has also marshaled his troops better this season, giving the right opportunity to the right players.
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RCB is looking very destructive this season, and they will be the biggest hurdle for CSK to cross this IPL season. CSK should also not take KKR lightly, who has the habit of recovering from initial hiccups and bouncing back in the points table.
Whatever be the outcome, whether CSK wins their fourth IPL trophy this season or not, one thing is clear that Mahendra Singh Dhoni will always be one of the most respected and most popular players cricket has ever witnessed, and his fan following will remain the same for years to come.
