Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni’s retirement from Indian Premier League (IPL) has been the topic of much speculation lately. However, CSK batter Moeen Ali believes that Dhoni could continue playing in the league next season. On April 12, in a match against the Rajasthan Royals, Dhoni showed his lethal hitting prowess, nearly taking his side to the finish line with a 17-ball 32 that included three maximums and one four. Moeen’s statement comes as a relief to fans of Dhoni who have been anticipating his retirement for some time now.
Moeen was quoted by ESPNcricinfo as saying, “He could definitely play again next year. The way he’s playing, I don’t think it’ll be his batting that stops him from playing, even if it’s in two, three years’ time. I wasn’t surprised at how he played [against Rajasthan]. I’ve been watching him in the nets, and he’s been batting unbelievably well. It’s just amazing to see from somebody at that age. It’s not easy when you come in so late – people forget that a lot of the time, but that’s what makes him so good at his role.”
Moeen has had the privilege of sharing the dressing room with one of the finest English cricketers, Eoin Morgan, and has also been fortunate to be working with Dhoni in the IPL. The two former skippers have had an illustrious career, with Dhoni clinching the 2011 ODI World Cup, 2007 T20 World Cup, and the Champions Trophy in 2013. On the other hand, Morgan guided England to lift their maiden ODI World Cup in 2019. Moeen outlined the main difference in Dhoni’s and Morgan’s captaincy styles.
“They’re very similar in how clear and calm they are, but also very different. Their interests and all that are very different. The biggest difference? MS (Dhoni) does most of his captaincy on gut feel, on the day. It could be a bit like that with Morgs (Eoin Morgan) too, but he was also very data-driven. But they’re both so calm. In terms of mannerisms, they are very, very, very similar,” he said.
Moeen’s comments came after Dhoni’s impressive performance against the Rajasthan Royals, where he played a crucial role in helping his team to a win. Dhoni’s 17-ball 32 was a display of his masterful batting skills and his ability to change the game in a matter of a few deliveries. With Dhoni still in form and Moeen’s belief that he could continue playing next season, CSK fans can breathe a sigh of relief.
Despite being 41 years old, Dhoni’s fitness and agility on the field are still unmatched. He is known for his sharp decision-making skills, his calm demeanor, and his ability to inspire his team to victory. Moeen’s comments have only added to the speculation that Dhoni may continue playing in the IPL for a few more years, much to the delight of his fans.
