Former Indian and CSK batter Suresh Raina shares a great bond of friendship with his former captain MS Dhoni. Recently, while discussing the greatness of legendary captain MS Dhoni during a round table discussion on Jio Cinema, Suresh Raina admitted that only Sachin Tendulkar had a fandom as extensive as that of Dhoni in Indian cricket history.
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Suresh Raina Compared MS Dhoni’s Greatness To Sachin Tendulkar
During the discussion, Suresh Raina, RP Singh, and Parthiv Patel reminisced about their most memorable fandom moments. Raina’s account stood out as he shared his experiences of playing under the captaincy of MS Dhoni for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) during their IPL title wins in 2010, 2011, 2015, and 2018. As a key member of the CSK team, Raina witnessed firsthand the unparalleled support and admiration that Dhoni commanded, highlighting the unique and extraordinary fandom surrounding the legendary cricketer.
Speaking to Jio Cinema, Raina said: “Absolutely, I saw Sachin Tendulkar receive this kind of love when we first came into the Indian team. That love was showered on Mahi Bhai by Indian fans thereafter. ‘MSD, Mahendra Singh Dhoni’ the name alone is embedded in people’s hearts,”
Last season under the captaincy of MS Dhoni the Chennai Super Kings won their 5th IPL title at the Narendra Modi Stadium late into the night. When asked about his return for the next season, Dhoni revealed his struggle with a troubled knee and plans for imminent surgery. Despite his physical challenges, Dhoni expressed his desire to return for the fans who had shown him immense love. Consequently, the 2024 season is anticipated to be Dhoni’s final appearance in the prestigious cricket league, set to commence on March 22nd.
In the season opener, the Chennai Super Kings will face off against the Royal Challengers Bangalore amidst the fervent support of their home crowd at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Anticipation runs high for this match, as it is expected to shatter previous viewership records. The showdown between MS Dhoni and Indian batting icon Virat Kohli, along with the reunion with former Super King Faf Du Plessis, promises an electrifying contest.
For many, the emotions will run deep as this season could potentially mark the final time Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni face each other on the cricket field. However, there’s another camp that believes Dhoni still has several years of IPL cricket left in him. They argue that Dhoni shouldn’t retire prematurely and should continue playing in future editions of the tournament.
