Chennai Super Kings (CSK) edged closer to securing a spot in the IPL 2024 playoffs after clinching a five-wicket victory against Rajasthan Royals on Sunday at their home ground, the MA Chidambaram Stadium. This match marked their final game at the stadium for the season, and potentially the last for the iconic MS Dhoni in Chennai as a player. Given that the 42-year-old ‘Thala’ is unlikely to participate in another IPL season, this match holds sentimental significance for fans.
The defending champions CSK currently hold the third position on the table, having accumulated 14 points from seven victories in 13 matches, with a net run rate of +0.528. Their last league fixture is set for May 18 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Following Sunday’s game, emotions soared as home fans rejoiced witnessing the heartwarming reunion of their cherished ‘Thala’ Dhoni with his former teammate Suresh Raina, affectionately dubbed ‘Chinna Thala’ by fans.
CSK commemorated their triumph over Rajasthan with a celebratory lap around the iconic Chepauk Stadium. During this victorious procession, Dhoni and Raina, both cricket legends, were seen embracing each other warmly and thrilling fans by striking tennis balls into the stands as keepsakes.
Andrum Indrum Endrendrum 💛
The shining legacy continues 🏅#WhistlePodu #Yellove 🦁💛@msdhoni pic.twitter.com/Y38J0cMPxI— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) May 13, 2024
“He is the God of Chennai and I am sure, temples of MS Dhoni would be built in the years to come in Chennai,” former CSK batsman Rayudu said on Star Sports.
“He is someone who brought India the joy of two World Cups and has brought Chennai joy with a lot of IPL and Champions League titles. He has just been that one guy who shows belief in his players, who has always done it for the team, for the country and for CSK,” Rayudu added.
Under Dhoni’s leadership, CSK has clinched five IPL titles along with two Champions League T20 trophies. Additionally, he captained India to victory in the T20 World Cup in 2007 and the ODI World Cup in 2011.