Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif believes MS Dhoni isn’t done with IPL just yet, sensing Dhoni’s disappointment after CSK’s IPL 2024 heartbreak. Despite CSK’s exit from the playoffs after a defeat to RCB, Mohammad Kaif feels Dhoni may have more to offer in the tournament.
Mohammad Kaif’s talent shone early on. He captained India to victory in the U-19 World Cup in 2000. After consistent performances in domestic cricket, he made his ODI debut in 2002. While his batting average might not have been the highest, his contributions were significant.
One of Kaif’s most memorable innings came at Lord’s in 2002, where he stitched a match-winning partnership with Rahul Dravid, helping India chase down a daunting target against England. He was also a fantastic fielder, renowned for his anticipation and acrobatic catches. Kaif’s cricketing career ended in 2006. Kaif transitioned into coaching, becoming the assistant coach for the Gujarat Lions in the IPL in 2017. He then went on to hold the same position for the Delhi Capitals in 2019 and 2020.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) witnessed a dramatic encounter on May 18th, 2024, as the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) edged past the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by a thrilling 27 runs at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. This win was crucial for RCB’s playoff aspirations.
RCB opted to bat first and set a challenging target of 218 runs. Faf du Plessis led the charge with a well-composed half-century, earning him the Player of the Match award. Contributions from Virat Kohli and a cameo from Glenn Maxwell ensured a strong batting display for RCB. The chase turned into a nail-biting affair. CSK looked well on course for a major part of their innings, with MS Dhoni reigniting hope with a quickfire 25 off just 13 balls. However, the young pacer Yash Dayal displayed exceptional composure in the final over, conceding only 3 runs and securing victory for RCB. Dismissing Dhoni in the final over proved to be the turning point in the match.
In Mohammad Kaif’s Words
Kaif highlighted the poignant image of a disheartened Dhoni in the dugout amidst RCB’s celebrations, noting how the veteran then retreated to the dressing room. Kaif speculates Dhoni’s lingering desire to return and conclude his IPL journey on a triumphant note.
According to PTI, here’s what Mohammad Kaif had to say about MS Dhoni,
“Personally, I don’t think he’s done, he could not win the game (last league match against RCB). In the last over after hitting a six, he got out. You could make out seeing his body language that he seemed very disappointed not winning the game for CSK,”
Despite approaching 43 in July, Kaif believes age won’t hinder Dhoni’s impact as long as his batting prowess remains intact. Dhoni’s impressive performance in IPL 2024, amassing 161 runs in 14 matches at a remarkable strike rate of 220.55, attests to his enduring ability.
Mohammad Kaif on Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy
Mohammad Kaif highlighted the leadership of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Shreyas Iyer and its pivotal role in their top finish during the league phase. Kaif expressed how Iyer’s absence due to back surgery in IPL 2023 was sorely felt by KKR.
He stated,
“He (Iyer) missed the whole IPL last year and KKR probably missed his captaincy in 2023. The way he is changing the bowlers, and picking his playing XI, he looks very calm under pressure. In a tournament like the IPL, you have to be very composed, you have to know what’s happening in the game and Iyer has come a long way. He has become a much better captain now,”
Shreyas Iyer and his team have secured a spot in the IPL 2024 final, awaiting to face the winners of the Qualifier 2 SunRisers Hyderabad.