And for the final time this year, MS Dhoni will be in action as the already-eliminated Chennai Super Kings play their last match of IPL 2025. The knocked-out clubs are determined to ruin the celebration for the top four teams who have advanced to the playoffs, as demonstrated by the last few games.
Dhoni was asked the same question, perhaps in fewer words but something similar, as he was asked every season.
When the captain of CSK chose to bat after winning the toss, former India coach Ravi Shastri immediately inquired about Dhoni's physical condition under Ahmedabad's hot weather and, more significantly, after enduring the demands of the previous 18 IPL seasons.
"Well, it's surviving. Every year is a new challenge, especially when you reach the last stage of your career, you have to respect your body, and it also needs a lot of maintenance. Thanks to the support staff; they've been doing their bit on and off. But it's responded well. I can only thank god that when I was playing international cricket and playing for the country, it didn't trouble me enough," said Dhoni during the toss.
At 43, Dhoni's passion for the franchise and his supporters is what keeps him coming back for more seasons. Dhoni is no longer the formidable player he once was, no doubt about it. Only Dhoni knows if he would make a comeback for another run next year.
However, the one thing about Dhoni that is certain is that you never know. According to reports, Dhoni has not yet indicated to the management that he plans to retire. Therefore, the end might not be imminent after all.
"It's a very good feeling,g and I always said it's a big thank you from the fans' side. That's what I believe, like whateverthe last few years I will be playing, you know, it's a way of, they are saying thank you very much for whatever you have done. And it's amazing, especially when you play a sport, what you want is the appreciation of the fans," Dhoni said in conversation with Star Sports.
"Being part of the Indian cricket team is one of the biggest things. I'm not playing international cricket. So IPL is the next best thing that can happen. So, I don't get goosebumps, but it's a kind of feeling, you know, whenever you walk in, everybody is very excited. They're waiting for you. They want you to do well. Even at times when you're playing against the team that they want to win, know they still want you to perform, contribute a bit, whatever it may be.So yeah, it's, it's an amazing feeling,” he added.
CSK belted 230/5 against GT in their final league stage match. Dewald Brevis and Devon Conway struck half-centuries, while Ayush Mhatre and Urvil Patel made scores in thirties.
