MS Dhoni returned to his hometown, Ranchi, on Sunday, May 19, after the Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) IPL 2024 campaign ended with a defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The Faf du Plessis-led RCB side triumphed over CSK by 27 runs in a crucial knock-out match at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, securing their place in the playoffs and eliminating CSK from the tournament.
Dhoni was central to the high-stakes finale. With CSK needing 17 runs in the last over to qualify for the playoffs, Dhoni smashed the first ball bowled by Yash Dayal for a massive 110-meter six, sending it out of the stadium.
However, his attempt to replicate the feat on the next ball fell short, and he was caught in the deep. Dayal then restricted the run flow, conceding only one run in the subsequent four balls, securing a memorable win for RCB.
As CSK’s IPL 2024 journey concluded, Dhoni quickly made his way back to Ranchi. An X user shared a video on social media showing Dhoni’s arrival in Ranchi, capturing the moment for fans.
MS Dhoni Back to Ranchi ❤️ #MSDhoni pic.twitter.com/s166DEtilh
— Chakri Dhoni (@ChakriDhoni17) May 19, 2024
“I don’t think we have seen the last of MS” – Robin Uthappa on MS Dhoni
Former India and CSK batter Robin Uthappa recently shared his thoughts on Dhoni’s future, expressing his belief that IPL 2024 won’t mark the end of Dhoni’s illustrious career. Uthappa predicted that the legendary cricketer would make a strong comeback next season following CSK’s disappointing exit this year. Speaking on Jio Cinema, Uthappa remarked:
“I don’t think we have seen the last of MS. He is not someone who takes these things lightly. He will come back roaring for sure. Even with the narrative, I have seen him bat only in the last 4 or 5 overs, there is a reason for it.”
Uthappa elaborated on Dhoni’s situation, mentioning:
“He had a calf injury which they initially thought perhaps was a niggle, but it was a little more grave than that. Because of that, he had to manage himself and often as he does, in international cricket and for CSK, he figured out a way to be useful and contribute to CSK.”
Uthappa’s insights reflect the resilience and strategic acumen of Dhoni, hinting at a potential return that could reignite CSK’s fortunes in the next IPL season.