Dhoni vows to play for CSK 'even on wheelchair'
What's the story
Legendary cricketer and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) veteran MS Dhoni has quashed retirement rumors ahead of the IPL 2025 season.
As CSK prepare to face off against Mumbai Indians in its first match, the 43-year-old reiterated his loyalty to his franchise.
"I can play for as long as I want for CSK. That's my franchise. Even if I'm in a wheelchair, they'll drag me," he said during a recent chat on JioHotstar.
Team support
Gaikwad praises Dhoni's remarkable performance at 43
CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad also praised Dhoni's phenomenal ability to make a huge difference to the team despite his age.
"A lot of new players have joined the team and sometimes they struggle to strike the ball as good as he is striking it right now," said Gaikwad.
He hoped that Dhoni would deliver crucial knocks for CSK in this IPL season, reiterating the veteran's importance in their lineup.
Training focus
Dhoni's approach to training and role in IPL
Gaikwad also shed light on Dhoni's unique approach to training ahead of the season-opener.
"I think his training is very much limited to whatever he tries to achieve or whatever his role would be in the IPL," he explained.
The CSK captain revealed Dhoni's focus during training is on hitting as many sixes as possible and maintaining optimal fitness levels, highlighting the veteran cricketer's dedication and commitment.
Injury recovery
Dhoni's past injuries and future prospects in IPL
Dhoni's dedication toward CSK comes after he overcame a knee injury that troubled him throughout the 2024 IPL season.
Following surgery at the end of that season, he made a powerful comeback for the 17th edition of IPL.
Despite giving up his captaincy and batting position, opting for No. 8 or lower in the order, Dhoni scored a stunning 161 runs off just 73 balls throughout the season at a blistering strike rate of 220.
Record chase
Dhoni's shot at IPL records in season opener
In the opening game of the IPL 2025 season, Dhoni has a chance to further etch his name into IPL history.
He is only 19 runs away from becoming CSK's highest run-scorer in the IPL, a title currently held by former franchise icon Suresh Raina with an impressive 4,687 runs.
Meanwhile, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is also close to setting a record for CSK as he needs eight scalps to become their leading wicket-taker in IPL history.