MS Dhoni: Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh explain why Chennai Super Kings captain is admired everywhere

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MS Dhoni is one of the most respected cricketers in the world and despite retiring from international cricket three years back, the wicketkeeper-batter enjoys immense popularity in every venue.

The former India captain is leading his four-time IPL champion team, Chennai Super Kings, and continues to be the fan favourite on every ground he steps into the middle. The viewership records break the charts every time the Ranchi cricketer walks on the pitch to either bat or lead his team on the ground.

The broadcasters of the first two games of CSK were in for a treat as viewership rights broke the charts. It was for the second consecutive time that peak viewership crossed 1.5cr during a CSK match. The Super Kings ended up winning that game by 12 runs and tasted their maiden win in the tournament.

Peak viewership for CSK matches in IPL 2023:

1st match Vs Gujarat Titans - 1.6 crore.

2nd match Vs Lucknow Super Giants - 1.5 crore. The peak viewership soared to 1.8 crores when Dhoni stepped into the middle to bat in the final over the match.

Why MS Dhoni Is Loved By All?

Former India cricketers Virender Sehwag and Harbhajan Singh while speaking on Star Sports, the official TV broadcasters of IPL 2023, revealed what makes Dhoni a special captain. Both Sehwag and Harbhajan were part of the World Cup-winning Indian sides under Dhoni's leadership in 2007 and 2011 spoke about one quality which sets Dhoni apart.

"MS Dhoni always listened to our suggestions when he was appointed the captain in 2007. He used to treat us like key members of the squad, and we never felt he was imposing himself upon us. He treated us more like a colleague and that helped. Some of my best cricket performances between 2008-2011, came under MS Dhoni's leadership," said Sehwag.

Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh - who has played with Dhoni for India and CSK - said, "This is the beauty of MS Dhoni, he always listens to the senior players and treats them with respect."