NEW DELHI: Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has shared his insights on MS Dhoni's role in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) squad, foreseeing continuity in the veteran's approach. Additionally, Pathan confirmed Dhoni's fitness after meeting him recently, indicating an exciting season ahead for fans.
According to Pathan, Dhoni's role in the CSK squad is expected to remain consistent with recent years.
"His role has changed in the past two years. He comes in lower-order, plays lesser deliveries but hits the big shots, the strike rate is high. It’s a small innings but a memorable one. I think there won’t be much of a change in that this year," Pathan stated during an appearance on Star Sports.
Providing an update on Dhoni's fitness, Pathan revealed, "I met with him a few days ago, he was playing pickleball for two hours non-stop. His knee was fit as it ever was. It’s an exciting time for fans; he now has his vintage old look. Will we get the vintage old Dhoni too?"
Dhoni, renowned for his leadership prowess, has guided CSK to 10 IPL finals, securing the title on five occasions, with the last triumph occurring in 2023. In addition to his captaincy achievements, Dhoni boasts impressive individual statistics, ranking seventh in the list of highest run-scorers in IPL history with 5082 runs in 250 matches.
Recalling CSK's memorable journey in the 2023 IPL season, Dhoni led the team into the final against the Gujarat Titans. Despite facing a daunting target of 214 set by the opposition, CSK emerged victorious with star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja's heroics in the final over.
1/10:IPL 2024: A look at jerseys of all 10 teams
Agencies
2/10:Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
<p>The jersey features a sleek design with vibrant blue fabric accented by striking orange lining along the sides, adding a dynamic and modern touch to the ensemble.</p>Agencies
3/10:Delhi Capitals (DC)
<p><u></u>Delhi Capitals seemingly retain their jerseys from the previous season, with no official announcements regarding changes.</p>Agencies
4/10:Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
<p>KKR's jersey for IPL 2024 incorporates blue mixed with gold throughout the ensemble, reflecting elegance and sophistication.</p>Agencies
5/10:Rajasthan Royals (RR)
<p>RR surprise fans with an all-pink jersey, celebrating women empowerment during their match against RCB, showcasing solidarity and inclusivity.</p>Agencies
6/10:Gujarat Titans (GT)
<p>GT opt for simplicity, revealing their new jersey for IPL 2024 through social media posts and replicas for sale, maintaining a minimalist approach to design and branding.</p>Agencies
7/10:Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
<p>SRH kick off IPL 2024 with a unique jersey featuring an ensemble of orange diamonds, reminiscent of their SA20 jersey, showcasing innovation and vibrancy.</p>Agencies
8/10:Punjab Kings (PBKS)
<p>Punjab Kings' new jersey for IPL 2024, unveiled by co-owner Preity Zinta and captain Shikhar Dhawan, retains its core dark red color but incorporates blue accents.</p>Agencies
9/10:Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
<p>CSK's yellow jersey with hints of blue remains consistent for IPL 2024, as revealed through replicas available on their website.</p>Agencies
10/10:Mumbai Indians (MI)
<p>MI's new jersey for IPL 2024 maintains its iconic blue and gold color scheme, as seen in a video featuring Rohit Sharma, symbolizing continuity and strength.</p>AgenciesDhoni is poised to lead CSK in their IPL 2024 opener against the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Friday at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
As anticipation builds for the IPL 2024 season, Irfan Pathan's insights shed light on MS Dhoni's role in the Chennai Super Kings squad and confirm the legendary captain's fitness ahead of the tournament opener. With Dhoni's vintage form and leadership acumen, CSK fans eagerly await the action-packed clashes in the upcoming edition of the IPL.
