Mahendra Singh Dhoni, former Indian skipper and current captain of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), has started his preparations for the 2023 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). This is expected to be Dhoni’s last outing in the league and CSK will be looking to give him his fifth IPL title win.
In his long and successful career in the IPL, Dhoni has made 234 appearances and scored 4978 runs with an average of 39.2, leading Chennai to the title four times in 2010, 2011, 2018, and 2021. CSK has the most IPL final appearances, finishing runners-up in the 2008, 2012, 2013, 2015, and 2019 seasons. However, the franchise had a disappointing outing in the 2022 season, finishing at the ninth position with only four wins.
For the 2022 season, Dhoni passed the captaincy to Ravindra Jadeja, but had to take over the charge again after a series of losses for the team in the first half of the season. Sadly, Jadeja was forced out of the tournament mid-way due to an injury to his rib cage.
At the 2023 IPL auction, CSK bought English all-rounder Ben Stokes for a big amount of Rs.16.25 crores, and it is rumored that Stokes could replace Dhoni as the skipper after his retirement. Along with Stokes, the franchise also added Ajinkya Rahane and Kyle Jamieson to their squad for the 2023 season. Rahane was roped in for Rs.50 lakhs, while the Kiwi all-rounder was bought for Rs.1 crore. Rahane has had leadership experience in the past and may be considered for leadership duties in the future.
In conclusion, CSK will be hoping to give Dhoni a fitting farewell in his last IPL season and secure their fifth title win. With the addition of Stokes, Rahane, and Jamieson to their squad, the franchise looks stronger than ever before. With Dhoni’s experience and leadership skills, and the new talent joining the team, the 2023 IPL season promises to be an exciting one for CSK and its fans.
MS Dhoni smashing 6s during today’s practice session! #Dhoni #IPL2023 #CSK @msdhoni pic.twitter.com/ZiVROmMVs4
— MS Dhoni Fans Official (@msdfansofficial) January 30, 2023
