Glum look and 110m six – Will this be last memory of MS Dhoni before retirement?

MS Dhoni’s crestfallen expression after Chennai Super Kings‘ (CSK) defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has sparked speculation about his future in the IPL. The match, a nail-biting encounter that saw RCB secure a playoff spot, left Dhoni’s fans wondering – was this the end of an era?

MS Dhoni last runs – 110m six?

MS Dhoni, batting at an unfamiliar No. 8, displayed glimpses of his vintage form. His mighty 110-meter six off the first ball of the final over rekindled hopes of a CSK victory. However, his dismissal on the very next delivery by Yash Dayal shattered those dreams.

That was the last six of his career. Love you forever #MSdhoni

That was 110m sixer#MSDians pic.twitter.com/NEJT9X630K

— Shiva Kumar (@Dagam_offl) May 18, 2024

Probably the last of Mahi ♥️

Thank you for all the memories. Don’t think he will be back, given that we have the mega auction next year. #Dhoni

— Striver (@striver_79) May 18, 2024

Caught on camera: MS Dhoni dejection

The camera captured MS Dhoni’s dejection in the dugout as CSK’s playoff hopes dwindled. The stoic captain, known for his composure, was seen blinking back before congratulating the RCB players. This display of raw emotion fueled rumors of a potential IPL retirement.

#Dhoni was really upset in not being able to finish the game. You could see it in his eyes. I really believed after he hit the first ball for six and 11 was required off 5 balls. I really believed man. I'm literally in tears right now. It hurts🥺 pic.twitter.com/rLvaZQu0Y9

— Rajveer Shahi 🇮🇳 (@RajveerShahi70) May 18, 2024

Fan Frenzy: Calls for MS Dhoni to not retire

Despite the loss, a section of fans urged Dhoni to stay on. They pointed out his valuable contributions throughout the tournament, including his valiant 25 off 13 balls. Some even drew parallels to his international career, which also ended on a heartbreaking note in the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final.

Thank you MS Dhoni for Everything. More than Trophies and Runs i enjoyed your presence on field.

Miss you mahi in cricket 🥹😭💛#Dhoni #Csk

pic.twitter.com/DKp4LHEY42

— TonyStark_NTR (@Tonystark__07) May 18, 2024

MS Dhoni potential retirement

While MS Dhoni hasn’t made any official announcements, his emotional response has ignited speculation. Retirement would see him end his IPL career on a high note, potentially as the joint-most successful captain with 5243 runs in 264 matches and the highest win percentage.

Dhoni himself had previously stated his desire to play on in 2020, expressing a sense of gratitude towards his fans. This season’s performance, though marked by CSK’s fifth-place finish, showcased his continued fighting spirit.

Definitely Not 🥹 one more year Dhoni 💛💪 #rcbvscsk #dhoni pic.twitter.com/oJsxVSsWGl

— Mukesh (@Cricketfan72) May 18, 2024

Only time will tell if Dhoni decides to hang his boots. But one thing is certain – his contributions to the IPL, both on and off the field, will be forever remembered.