The Last Dance: Is it the beginning of the end for M.S. Dhoni?

For many years now, whenever the Chennai Super Kings or the Indian cricket team was in need of some late game-winning moments, Captain cool M.S. Dhoni saved the day for them either by providing some intelligent solutions or by hitting a captain’s knock which would make the team feel secure even in the critical stages of the game. Since 2004, when he came into the nation’s eyes, he has been delivering some scintillating performances for Team India and has dug up a special place in all of our hearts forever.

After a total of 350 ODIs, 98 T20Is, and 90 Test Matches for the country, Dhoni recently decided to bid farewell to the famous Blue Jersey he had been wearing for the last 16 years and retired from International cricket. 

After the spontaneous end to his International career, almost all of the fans had their eyes set on the start of the 2020 IPL season to see their captain retake the field, this time in a yellow shirt for the Chennai Super Kings. However, after seeing a disappointing campaign from the men in yellow this season, the fans were left a little bit disappointed. Many people even noticed that this might be the start of what everybody feared and is inevitable, i.e. the end of Captain Cool’s playing career.

Dhoni is already 39 and even suggested bringing in some of the team’s young talents to rejuvenate its spirit. He might play the next season of the Indian Premier League, which is a familiar trend for players who are past their best and nearing retirement now. 

This season’s performance could also see the former captain’s sponsorship deals taking a hit as he is considered one of the most marketable cricketers at the moment despite retirement from International cricket. His numerous endorsement deals might get less and less as he is nearing towards retirement now. 

All things said, M.S. Dhoni has had a career to remember, cherished by every Indian fan. He has helped the Indian Cricket team win all possible trophies in World Cricket, especially the World Cup after 28 years. He will always be remembered as one of the best captains the world of cricket has ever seen. Let’s just hope that we get to witness those memorable IPL batting innings at least once more next year as well.

Written By
Shashwat Nishant