MS-Dhoni. (Photo Source: Twitter/X)
Right after the completion of IPL 2023, legendary cricketer MS Dhoni mentioned that he will be back with Chennai Super Kings in the next season only if he is 100% fit. In a recent interview, the cricketer clarified that he is recovering well but it is a bit early to assess the condition. Notably, the 42-year-old has undergone knee surgery after IPL 2023 and as things stand, he is yet to recover and is having trouble climbing stairs.
In a viral video on X (formerly Twitter), the CSK skipper was spotted hobbling while climbing down the stairs. This is not a good sign as the Indian Premier League (IPL) is just four months away. Ahead of that, the stumper batter needs to start practicing as well but in case his knee doesn’t recover on time, Dhoni may end up calling up time. However, more will come to the limelight once he hits the nets. The cricketer may bat swiftly but wicketkeeping will be a hard challenge.
Brooo Dhoni’s knees aren’t giving me confidence ☠️ Hope he has one more season in him. pic.twitter.com/az62tcfmh9
— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) November 21, 2023
— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) November 21, 2023
On the other hand, there are talks of Chennai releasing Ben Stokes ahead of IPL 2024. The franchise bought the all-rounder in the auction last year but the 32-year-old had to sit out with an injury for the majority part of the campaign. This year, Stokes isn’t bowling at the moment and will undergo knee surgery soon to be completely fit.
Chennai are not ready to take a risk as they have paid a hefty sum to get him on board. The idea is to release him ahead of the next season and to sign his replacement in the auction, which is slated to take place in Dubai in the month of December. All the franchises are given a deadline to submit their final squad by November 25 and hence, a lot more will be coming to light in the coming days.