Amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, which has forced everyone to remain indoors and avoid public meetings, Dhoni announced his retirement in a rather unique manner by making his formal decision to call it quits with a post at 7:29 PM on Instagram.
Dhoni's decision to retire left millions of his fans and the cricket fraternity in a state of shock as they found their cricketing heroes decision a bit surprising considering the fact that they expected him to play the next edition of the ICC World T20.
While the social media platforms were flooded with tributes and gratitude for the world cup winning skipper who led the country to major victories under his inspirational leadership, many fans and several former cricketers are also requesting the BCCI for hand a deserving send off to the Indian great by way of a farewell match for the India legend.
It has been learnt that the BCCI is keen to host a farewell match for Dhoni and envisage a plan for the same during the upcoming thirteenth season of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
A BCCI official recently confirmed that the Indian board is looking to organise a farewell match for Dhoni after IPL 2020 which is all set to get underway in the UAE from September 19. The title clash of IPL 200 will be played on November 10 following which the board can organise Dhoni's last game in an India jersey.
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"There is no international series right now, maybe after IPL we will see what can be done because Dhoni has done a lot for the nation and he deserves all the respect. We always wanted to have a farewell match for him but Dhoni is a different player. He announced his retirement when nobody was thinking of it," a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying by IANS.
The BCCI official further stated that the apex cricket board has not had a communication with Dhoni about a farewell game but they will surelyt organise a felicitation ceremony too for the iconic cricketer, irrespective of his agreement. The official said it will be an honour for the BCCI to felicitate the 39-year-old for his contributions to Indian cricket and the legacy he has left behind.
"No, but surely we will speak to him during the IPL and that would be the right place to get his opinion about a match or series. Well, there will be a proper felicitation ceremony for him no matter if he agrees on it or not. That will be our honour to felicitate him," the official told IANS.