Would have made more sense had Dhoni retired”: MSD’ s captaincy’hand over’ move slammed before CSK’s IPL 2024 opener

MS Dhoni and Chennai Super Kings sent the cricket fraternity into frenzy right before the start of the 2024 Indian Premier League, as the five-time champion CSK veteran stepped down from captaincy, handing the reins to Ruturaj Gaikwad. Dhoni had led the side to a title win last season but trusted Gaikwad for the leadership duty this year, who made his CSK debut in 2019.

Chennai Super Kings’ MS Dhoni during a training session ahead of the IPL 2024 opener(PTI)
Chennai Super Kings’ MS Dhoni during a training session ahead of the IPL 2024 opener(PTI)
Dhoni has handed over captaincy to his CSK teammate for the second time. The Super Kings struggled with their on field performances and the legendary wicketkeeper-batter gave up the job to Ravindra Jadeja two years ago, but the move didn’t pay off. Dhoni assumed control midway through the season and it had been too late for him to resurrect it.

It seems that the decision made this year was thought through significantly as Gaikwad revealed that Dhoni had dropped hints of relinquishing captaincy in a private chat with him. However, even though it seemed inevitable for a 42-year-old Dhoni to one day step down, the news still shocked fans and ex – cricketers alike.

Wasim Jaffer was dissatisfied with the timing of the phone call. According to the former India opener – who also worked with Punjab Kings as their batting coach – Dhoni should have only stepped aside if he wanted to retire.

Without MS Dhoni, I believe it would have been more rational. ” He had retired and was no longer present. This would have made the life of any captain easier. Jaffer stated to ESPNCricinfo that MS Dhoni’s presence has increased the difficulty of a captain’s job in the current climate.

“Whether he makes any decision and if Dhoni accepts or not. Whether he likes those decisions. And you are on your own, and we all know that Ruturaj Gaikwad would have been the successor. Jaffer said it might have been simpler had Dhoni not been there.

There is no official statement is made concerning MS Dhoni’s playing future in IPL. The decision to quit as captain was taken to make sure a smooth transition.

CSK to meet RCB in opener
The Super Kings will kickstart their brand new era on March 22 when the side takes on the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Chennai. A couple of of India’s best cricketers – MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli – are going to be back in action of the match.