Former Pakistan quick bowler Shoaib Akhtar feels that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni could play one more time in the Indian Premier League (IPL) before stopping the game through and through.
Simultaneously, he added that that wouldn’t shock him at all assuming MSD returns as a member of the team management one year from now, considering the legend is known for taking flighty actions.
Dhoni as of late continued captaincy from Ravindra Jadeja in IPL 2022. Chennai has had a forgettable run this season, winning just three of their initial 10 matches.
He has made a respectable showing with the bat in the limited moments that he got. The wicketkeeper played a vital appearance to lift Chennai to triumph against the Mumbai Indians (MI) in a last-ball spine chiller.
Cannot Predict Anything About MS Dhoni: Shoaib Akhtar
Once more dhoni will be at the center of attention when CSK takes on the Delhi Capitals (DC) at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Sunday. Talking in front of the match, Akhtar applauded Dhoni and anticipated that the 40-year-old could stop after one more IPL.
He told Sportskeeda: “He is MS Dhoni. Can’t really predict what he does. He can do any odd stuff. He is known for doing that. He’s a great guy. We all love him and respect him.
“Personally, though, I reckon he will play another season before he calls it a day. Or again, he might be part of the management.”
Franchisees Need To Stay Looking Beyond Players Like MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli: Shoaib Akhtar
Akhtar likewise asked franchises to begin looking past the likes of Virat Kohli and Dhoni and contemplate what’s to come.
He added: “Franchisees need to stay looking beyond players like Dhoni and Kohli. Of course, there is the star factor and emotional bonding with the two big names. But this is a cruel world. Teams need to look ahead and explore options.”
Kohli’s horrific run in IPL 2022 went on as he was excused for a first-ball duck for the third time in the ongoing season against the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Sunday.
CSK Struggling Off The Field This Season: Shoaib Akhtar
Moving concentration back to Chennai, the former Pakistan speedster thought that the franchise have battled this season because their off-field arrangements have not been sufficient. He stated:
“Since the IPL started, Chennai have rarely been knocked out early. They make an impression almost every season. But there are too many cooks in the kitchen for CSK this time. They need time to regroup. It’s too late this season.
“They have to come back next year with some clear thinking and a clear mind. You win matches off the field, in the dressing room. On the field, you only put up performances.”
Jadeja assumed control over the captaincy from Dhoni toward the beginning of IPL 2022. However, the former gave back the obligation to MSD as the leadership duty was obviously influencing his overall performance.
