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At the pre-game news conference for Sunday, March 23's match between the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI), captain Ruturaj Gaikwad discussed MS Dhoni. During the training camps and tournament preparations, the young captain talked about how the previous five-time IPL champion has been staying in shape.
Dhoni, who is still going strong at 43, is a key member of the five-time champions' hierarchy. Although he has continued to play the role of finisher for Chennai, his ability has diminished over time. The seasoned wicketkeeper bats for a few overs shows off his tremendous power-hitting ability, attempts to hit every ball out of the ground, and then heads back to the bench.
CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad gets candid:
Ruturaj Gaikwad on MS Dhoni. [Espn Cricinfo]
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) March 22, 2025
"If you see now even Sachin Tendulkar is batting as great as he is right even now at the age of 50 so I think still he has many year to go". pic.twitter.com/2OJq0UoZQi
Even though he may no longer be captaining the team, MS Dhoni appears to have a lot of faith in Gaikwad, and the 28-year-old top batsman has expressed a great deal of respect for him. While discussing his fitness standards, Gaikwad freely admitted that even if Dhoni's training may be a little limited, he hasn't appeared out of shape since the first day of training. Gaikwad also cited Sachin Tendulkar, who is 51 years old and is actively involved in former cricketers' competitions.
Ruturaj Gaikwad said, "I think his training is very much limited to whatever he tries to achieve. Or whatever his role would be in the IPL. So, it is pretty much very simple, focused on trying to hit as much as sixes as possible and trying to get the right swing, trying to be in the best shape. That is what I think initially he was trying to do. And then I never thought he was out of shape even on the first day. So, I think obviously he is special - he's done it for so many years. If you see now even Sachin Tendulkar is batting as great as he is right even now at the age of 50 [51]. So, I think still many years to go."
Regarding the MI vs. CSK game, it will take place in the Chepauk (M. A. Chidambaram Stadium). The rivals, who are vying for a record-breaking sixth crown this season, will face off in their 38th meeting.
Watch this space for more cricket news.
