M.S. Dhoni, one of the finest finishers of the game, has still that edge. Whenever he stepped in during the ongoing IPL, he exuded the same enthusiasm and spirit as he showed in those initial days of his career. His fitness level is superb. In the present season of the IPL, he has batted very well and has performed very well both behind the wickets and as a captain of his team, thus winning the hearts of cricket aficionados.
What I feel is Dhoni would put in all efforts to secure wins for his team as long as he is fit, and if we look at his recent statement it is his wish to play the last match of his life in Chennai only. The next IPL season may be held in different cities, which may cause him to travel across venues. He would, however, like to play his last match among his CSK fans.
The Chennai team management will play a significant role in respect of his decision to play his last match there. The reason is M.S. Dhoni and Chennai team management has a special relationship with IPL. Dhoni would always want his team to improve their performance in the next season of the IPL. He would want his team to play the game with a new approach and attitude. If the CSK skipper makes it happen only then would he be able to continue his career with the league.
If we look at Dhoni’s performance as a batsman, we can say it with an amount of certainty that there is an improvement in his strike rate and form as a batsman. He has played 14 matches and scored 232 runs, at an average of 33.14 runs with a strike rate of 123.40, in 13 innings. He has also scored a half-century. He has played last overs in his inimitable style and has proved himself a good finisher of the game as usual. It will be interesting to see whether Dhoni maintains his form or even betters it or not. Dhoni, on his part, would make all efforts to play in his prime form in the next season of IPL. If he is unable to accomplish this feat, he may call it a day and hang his boots.
The author is a former Indian cricketer and selector