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Adam Gilchrist and MS Dhoni (Source: Twitter)
Although the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 is just around the corner, the excitement surrounding the tournament has already escalated, courtesy of the iconic MS Dhoni. The captain of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), possibly participating in his final IPL season, has commenced training in the nets, sporting his trademark long locks, evoking nostalgia. Michael Hussey, who is also a member of the coaching staff for the CSK, has verified that MS Dhoni has commenced training for the 2024 IPL season.
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The forthcoming IPL edition is anticipated to kick off by the end of March and could potentially mark the end of the veteran wicketkeeper's illustrious cricketing career. In the second match between West Indies and Australia, the former Australian wicketkeeper batter, Adam Gilchrist lauded Dhoni’s decision to practice with a sticker of one of his friend’s shop name written on it. In the latest footage of MS Dhoni preparing for the upcoming IPL season, he was seen practicing with a new bat sticker featuring the logo of 'Prime Sports'.
This sports shop is owned by Paramjit Singh, a childhood friend of the World Cup-winning skipper, who is known to have played a significant role in Dhoni's cricketing journey. Singh also assisted Dhoni in securing his first bat sponsorship deal during his initial days in the international arena. Adam Gilchrist also pointed out Dhoni's new bat sticker during the broadcast.
"Saw him hitting some balls the other day in the nets with a new bat sticker on his bat, just a local sports store of one of his school mate's. Must have said I'll whack your company name on my bat to give your store a boost," the legendary wicketkeeper batter said.
Watch the video here;
Mark : MS Dhoni is Back!
— Abhi⚒️ (@abhi_backup07) February 11, 2024
Hussey : Dhoni is Back, Might be hitting in nets!
Gilly mentions Dhoni is using his Friend's Shop Sticker in his bat. pic.twitter.com/IYASS9iWLG
Michael Hussey confirmed MS Dhoni’s comeback in IPL
During the second T20I encounter between Australia and the West Indies at the Adelaide Oval, commentators Mark Howard, Mike Hussey, and Adam Gilchrist discussed the IPL and MS Dhoni. After having retired from international cricket in 2020 and not participating in any domestic cricket either, the 2023 IPL final against the Gujarat Titans (GT) stands as Dhoni's final appearance on a cricket field. The former India skipper, who grappled with knee problems throughout the tournament, underwent surgery to address the issue following CSK's fifth title victory.
"Looking forward to the IPL, it is a great tournament, it really is. The best players from all around the world, the best Indian players playing. It is incredible to be a part of it. The crowds are unbelievable, the noise they make, the atmosphere at the grounds. Yes, MS Dhoni is back. He'd be hitting the balls in the nets already, I reckon," Hussey said.