MS Dhoni: Will the CSK Stalwart play the IPL Next Year?

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MS Dhoni and his Chennai Super Kings will not be taking part in the IPL 2024 playoffs after the defeat in Bengaluru on Saturday (May 18).

CSK couldn't go past the rejuvenated Royal Challengers Bengaluru as they got pipped at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. As the road for CSK ends in this IPL, the inevitable question is now regarding MS Dhoni.

Dhoni, who had yet another impactful season for CSK, has been flirting with retirement for some time now. Last year, after the victorious campaign, Dhoni said that he would be extending his journey for another year.

Dhoni has showcased his might with the bat this season, and has also been a decent custodian behind the wickets. However reports have emerged on Dhoni's injury and issues. A CSK official said that the veteran was playing despite the doctor's advice against it and has been nursing leg and back issues.

As the campaign ended for CSK on a sour note, the question is will the CSK stalwart be back for next year?

Was it MS Dhoni's Final Match at Chinnaswamy?

MS Dhoni is someone who makes decisions only after a lot of thought. The 42-year-old is not the spring chicken that he used to be, but his passion for the game can drive him forward for another year or two.

But will Dhoni be pushing himself? He wouldn't mind but it will depend on the physical condition and his body's ability to support the routine. The CSK star had surgery last year on his knees, and it is to be seen whether he will be able to bank on them. Also IPL comes with a lot of travelling and other responsibilities. Is Dhoni willing to go through the same sets of routine for almost two months again?

One important aspect is Dhoni's ability to perceive situations. He must have already known how his body is dealing with IPL this year itself, hence if the former CSK captain thinks he can go through that again, we will definitely see him next year. But if he feels the opposite, the Chinnaswamy night may have already been his swansong.