The 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) ended on the best note for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and their skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, as the team lifted their fifth trophy by defeating Gujarat Titans.
After the final, Dhoni had stated that he would love to return for the 2024 IPL, provided his body was fit. He played the entire 2023 IPL with strapping on his left knee but hardly looked ill at ease while keeping wickets. Afterwards, the CSK skipper underwent successful knee surgery to give him hope.
As per CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan, Dhoni is recovering well from his surgery.
Bet here on The Ashes 2023 England vs Australia series (selected markets)
MS Dhoni recovering well post-surgery
As per Viswanathan, one would not know that Dhoni was playing through knee isssues because the former India captain never complained and played through the pain. He also added that the CSK skipper is recovering well from his injury and is in a good state of mind.
"We knew it was a struggle for Dhoni to play but his commitment to CSK, his leadership & how the team benefits, you have to appreciate him, till the final, he never complained about his knee but everyone knew that he was struggling, after the final, he told "Okay, I will have surgery", he finished the surgery, he is happy & recovering well," said Vishwanathan in conversation with Espn Cricinfo.
All latest TNPL and other cricket betting odds via Dafabet
Are CSK thinking about life after Dhoni?
When CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan was asked about Dhoni's retirement and a potential free-up of INR 15 Crore in CSK's purse in the mini-auction ahead of the 2024 season, he brushed aside those talks.
He told PTI, “Frankly, we are not even thinking along those lines as we have not reached that stage”, said Viswanathan. He added that the final decision would be in the hands of Dhoni, and the CSK management will act accordingly.
Viswanathan also expressed his gratitude towards Dhoni in the interview. “In our franchise, the skipper keeps everything uncomplicated. The key has been to keep things simple and explain to every player what is expected of them”.