MS Dhoni is undeniably one of the most successful players in IPL history. From 2008 to 2023, he dominated the league and set numerous records:
- Most Matches Played: Dhoni holds the record for most matches played in the IPL, with a staggering 250 appearances, surpassing any other player.
- Most Runs by a Wicket-keeper Batsman: Dhoni has amassed a total of 5,082 runs in the IPL, the highest number for any wicket-keeper batsman.
- Most Stumpings: With 195 stumpings to his name, Dhoni stands unchallenged as the king behind the stumps in the IPL.
- Most Catches by a Wicket-keeper: Adding to his wicketkeeping prowess, Dhoni has also grabbed a record 108 catches in the IPL.
- Most Matches Won as Captain: Leading from the front, Dhoni has captained teams to victory in 121 IPL matches, the highest for any captain.
Preparation for IPL 2024
After hinting at retirement following the 2023 season, Dhoni surprised fans by announcing his return to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for IPL 2024.
While his 2023 season wasn’t his strongest, scoring 346 runs in 14 matches with an average of 23.23, CSK believes Dhoni remains a valuable asset.
Dhoni has wasted no time in gearing up for the upcoming season. He’s been diligently training at his private academy in Ranchi and participating in practice sessions alongside his CSK teammates.
Dhoni’s hope is to deliver a strong performance in IPL 2024 and help CSK clinch their sixth IPL title.
- Last-ball Six to Seal Victory (2010): In a thrilling encounter against Kings XI Punjab in 2010, MS Dhoni showcased his nerve and batting prowess by smashing a last-ball six to secure victory for Chennai Super Kings. This iconic moment epitomized Dhoni’s ability to remain calm under pressure and deliver when it mattered the most.
- Lightning-fast Stumpings: Dhoni’s lightning-fast stumpings have become the stuff of legend in the IPL. His swift glovework behind the stumps has often caught batsmen off guard, leaving them stranded outside their crease. These moments of brilliance exemplify Dhoni’s exceptional wicketkeeping skills and ability to effect game-changing dismissals.
- Captaincy Masterstrokes: Throughout his IPL career, Dhoni has been hailed for his astute captaincy decisions. From innovative field placements to tactical bowling changes, Dhoni’s strategic acumen has often turned the tide in favor of Chennai Super Kings. His ability to stay one step ahead of the opposition and think on his feet has led to numerous memorable victories for his team.
- Helicopter Shots and Finishing Flourishes: Dhoni’s trademark helicopter shot has become synonymous with his batting repertoire in the IPL. With his incredible hand-eye coordination and brute power, Dhoni has dispatched bowlers to all parts of the ground with his unconventional strokeplay. His ability to finish matches in style with towering sixes and calculated risks has left fans in awe time and again.
- Leading CSK to IPL Titles: Perhaps the most memorable moments of Dhoni’s IPL career are the multiple titles he has led Chennai Super Kings to. Under his captaincy, CSK clinched the IPL trophy multiple times, cementing their status as one of the most successful franchises in the tournament’s history. Dhoni’s leadership and inspirational performances played a pivotal role in CSK’s championship triumphs, creating enduring memories for fans worldwide.
