IPL 2024: CSK prepare for MS Dhoni’s final home game in IPL 2024

MS Dhoni. (Photo Source: BCCI/IPL)

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are gearing up for their last home game of the season against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday, May 12. This match holds special significance not only because it carries playoff implications but also for the fact that it could well be the legendary MS Dhoni’s swansong at the iconic venue.

CSK confirmed that the inspirational wicketkeeper-batter has been playing the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) through pain. Reports have emerged in the Indian media that Dhoni has been playing with a muscle tear. The former India captain has been seen limping on several occasions this season and it has been speculated that the injury is similar to the one that bothered him last year. After leading the Men in Yellow to a record-equaling fifth IPL title last season, Dhoni underwent knee surgery as he wanted to play IPL 2024. If Chennai fail to qualify for the playoffs, this could be the stalwart’s final game in Chepauk.

“Despite his old age. Despite the pain. Despite the reduced strength. A hero never stops wielding his sword!” CSK tweeted ahead of their home match against the Royals.

Despite the injury, Dhoni has been in scintillating form this season. He has been as safe as houses behind the stumps and has bludgeoned bowling line-ups in the backend of the innings with utter disdain. In 10 innings, the 42-year-old has only been dismissed twice and has aggregated 136 runs at an average of 68 and a strike rate of 226.67. He has hit 11 fours and 12 sixes in IPL 2024.

Also Read: MS Dhoni becomes oldest to hit landmark 250 sixes in IPL history

Race to IPL 2024 playoffs intensifies

Rajasthan are coming into this clash on the back of two consecutive defeats. They will make it to the playoffs if they can beat Chennai on Sunday. The defending champions haven’t been in great form either, as they have lost four out of their last six games. A win on Sunday will take them to 14 points but won’t ensure them a playoffs berth.

Also Read: IPL 2024: Match 61, CSK vs RR Match Prediction – Who will win today’s IPL match between CSK vs RR?

This will be the first and only meeting between these two sides in IPL 2024. CSK have a slight edge in the head-to-head scoreline, having won 15 out of the 28 matches played against RR. It will be interesting to see who can withstand the pressure and come out on top on Sunday.