NEW DELHI: Former South African cricketer
AB de Villiers
has likened Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni to a diesel engine that never stops working.
Despite speculations about Dhoni's retirement after the 2023 IPL season, he continued his commitment to CSK for one more season, even after undergoing knee surgery and grappling with significant injury concerns.
At the age of 42, Dhoni is set to lead CSK in the
IPL 2024
after dedicating himself to rehabilitation to recover from the knee surgery.
De Villiers, in his reflections, emphasised the role of Dhoni's leadership, the calm guidance of coach
Stephen Fleming
, and the experience of players like
Ravindra Jadeja
in CSK's success.
Together, they have created a culture of excellence that defines the essence of the CSK franchise. Dhoni's resilience and commitment to the game have been key factors in the success and longevity of his cricketing career.
“They played some incredible cricket last year. There were a lot of rumors about MS Dhoni finishing up last year, that was not the case, ladies and gentlemen. He would be back again. Will this be his final season? No one knows. He just seems to be this diesel engine that never ends. He keeps running. What an incredible player, what an incredible captain," de Villiers said on his YouTube channel.
"I believe it's through their presence, it's through the leadership of MSD, a calm coach in Stephen Fleming, senior players in Ravindra Jadeja and others who have really set this incredible culture alive. They are a very intimidating team to play against. They are never easy to beat. That is always a great characteristic of a very successful unit, of a very successful franchise. When you are playing well, it's, 'Yes, no problem, no one's gonna stop us' but when you are not playing so well - they always find a way to compete,” he added.
The South African maestro also emphasised the formidable aura surrounding Chennai Super Kings (CSK), describing them as an intimidating force on the cricketing battlefield. He highlighted CSK's stronghold at the Chepauk stadium, which is often referred to as a 'fortress,' adding an impregnable dimension to their dominance.
De Villiers issued a cautionary note to rival IPL teams, warning them of the peril posed by CSK, unburdened by the weight of expectations.
As defending champions who secured the title in the previous season, CSK enters the tournament with a sense of tranquility, free from the shackles of undue pressure. The combination of their formidable presence, home advantage, and a composed mindset makes CSK a formidable force to contend with in the IPL 2024.
"They won last year. Yes, they want to defend their title but there's almost no pressure on MSD and his troops and I think that makes them dangerous. Can they go back-to-back? They certainly have the ability," he concluded.
CSK will play the season opener against RCB in Chennai on March 22.
(With IANS inputs)
English (US) ·