MS Dhoni, the former captain of the Indian cricket team, has been an integral part of the Indian Premier League (IPL) since its inception in 2008. Dhoni, who has been leading the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise since the first season, announced his retirement from international cricket in August 2020. As the IPL 2021 season marked Dhoni's last appearance in the tournament, let's take a look at his contributions and impact on the league.
Dhoni's IPL journey began in 2008 when he was bought by the Chennai Super Kings for USD 1.5 million, the highest bid at that time. The wicketkeeper-batsman has since then played for CSK in every season except for the two years when the franchise was suspended. Under his leadership, CSK has won three IPL titles and has reached the playoffs every season except for the two years of suspension.
Dhoni's captaincy and leadership skills have been instrumental in CSK's success in the tournament. He has a calm and composed demeanor, which has helped him make crucial decisions under pressure. He has also been known for his unconventional tactics, such as promoting bowlers to bat higher up the order, which have often paid off.
Apart from his captaincy, Dhoni has also been a prolific batsman and an exceptional wicketkeeper. He has scored over 4,800 runs in the IPL with a strike rate of 136.75, including 23 half-centuries. He has also effected 132 dismissals as a wicketkeeper, the most by any player in the tournament's history.
Dhoni's impact on the league goes beyond his on-field performances. He has been a role model for many young cricketers, and his popularity has helped the IPL gain a massive following in India and across the globe. He has also been an astute businessman, with his brand value and endorsements making him one of the wealthiest cricketers in the world.
As Dhoni played his last IPL season in 2021, his contributions to the league were celebrated by fans and fellow cricketers alike. The league's official Twitter handle paid tribute to him, calling him "a true IPL legend." Dhoni's farewell season was not the most successful, as CSK failed to make it to the playoffs for the first time since 2008. However, Dhoni's legacy in the IPL remains intact, and his impact on the league will be felt for years to come.
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