Former India cricketers – Kapil Dev and Dilip Vengsarkar on Monday (April 16) lauded Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni for his unparalleled fitness that he exhibited during his stupendous 44-ball 79 against Kings XI Punjab on Sunday night.

Even though CSK fell short by just 4 runs while chasing KXIP’s mammoth target of 198, cricket fans were thrilled by Dhoni’s jaw-dropping strokes amidst back pain. During his innings, Dhoni’s back was troubling him a lot and he also took some help from the physio.

"He is very fit and in terms of overall ratings, he is one of the top players in terms of fitness," Kapil Dev quoted as saying by Times of India.

The 1983 World Cup winning skipper also expecting a few more such innings from Dhoni this year since the CSK captain is batting up the order.

"This IPL will give him strength to do bigger things as a player. He was fabulous the other night. Batting up the order is going to do a world of good to his batting. He will open his arms and shoulder at will. I am sure he is enjoying every moment of it," Kapil added.

Echoing his former captain’s voice, one of the most stylish batsmen of his time – Dilip Vengsarkar said: "It was awesome the way he played. He came close to winning the game for CSK. He has played really well. I wish him luck.”

Vengsarkar further went on to say that age is just a number for Dhoni.

"I have always believed that form and fitness are two important aspects of the game. As far as Dhoni is concerned, his fitness level is still excellent -- as good as he was before," Vengsarkar opined.

Speaking after the match, Dhoni has clarified that it was not a very serious injury.

“I don't know how bad my back is but it should be okay. God has given me enough power so I don't have to rely on my back a lot. It shouldn't be so bad. I am used to playing with the injuries. You have to be tough,” Dhoni had said at the post-match presentation ceremony.