IPL 2025: CSK 'Thala' MS Dhoni Announces His Arrival With Iconic Helicopter Shot Ahead of Season

Add as a preferred source on Google

IPL 2025: MS Dhoni is back in action, and he has made his intentions clear ahead of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. During a Chennai Super Kings (CSK) training session at Chepauk.

The legendary captain produced his signature helicopter shot, sending a strong message to his opponents. The moment came in an intra-squad match when Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana attempted a toe-crushing yorker, only for Dhoni to dispatch it effortlessly for a straight six.

The former India captain, who has been preparing diligently for what many speculate could be his final IPL season, judged the length to perfection and executed the shot with his trademark finesse. The ball soared over the umpire’s head and into the stands, leaving his teammate Ravichandran Ashwin stunned at the non-striker’s end. Pathirana, who could do little to stop the masterclass, responded with a wry smile as he watched the ball disappear into the night sky.

Dhoni’s Relentless Preparation

At 43, Dhoni continues to defy expectations, proving that age is just a number when it comes to his unparalleled fitness and big-hitting prowess. Even five years after his international retirement, the wicketkeeper-batter remains a force to be reckoned with. He has already joined CSK’s pre-season camp, ensuring he is in top shape ahead of the IPL 2025 opener.

His former teammate Harbhajan Singh recently shed light on Dhoni’s rigorous training regime and hunger for the game. Speaking to ESPN Cricinfo, Harbhajan revealed, “I just met him recently at one of our friend’s daughter’s weddings. He looked very fit, and solid. I asked him, 'What you are doing at this age, isn’t it tough?’ He said, 'Yes, it’s difficult, but this is the only thing I like doing. I find joy in it. I want to do it, go out and play.’ As long as the hunger is there, you will be able to do it."

Harbhajan also emphasised how Dhoni has been working tirelessly behind the scenes to prepare for the upcoming season. “It’s hard without playing any cricket (throughout the year). He is showing how it’s done. He must be doing something better than the others. He is not just surviving, he is dominating all the bowlers," he explained.

Dhoni’s Dedication: First to Arrive, Last to Leave

Further highlighting Dhoni’s commitment, Harbhajan revealed that the CSK icon has been practising for the last two to three months, putting in long hours in the nets. “He bats 2-3 hours every day in Chennai. He is the first one to come to the ground and the last one to leave, even at this age. That’s the difference," Harbhajan added.

With CSK’s captaincy now in the hands of Ruturaj Gaikwad, Dhoni’s presence in the squad remains invaluable. His experience and leadership continue to inspire the team, ensuring they are well-prepared for the season ahead.

CSK’s High-Voltage IPL 2025 Opener

Chennai Super Kings will begin their IPL 2025 campaign with a blockbuster clash against their arch-rivals, Mumbai Indians, on March 23. With Dhoni already making headlines before the tournament has even begun, CSK fans will be eager to see more fireworks from their beloved 'Thala' as the season unfolds.

As the anticipation builds, one thing is certain—MS Dhoni isn’t just here to participate; he is here to dominate. And if his helicopter shot off Pathirana is any indication, IPL 2025 might just witness another masterclass from the iconic cricketer.