MS Dhoni may never turn up for India in the Blue Jersey again after announcing his international retirement on August 15, but the iconic stalwart has still plenty left in the tank to produce those whirlwind game changing cameos when he dons the yellow jersey and leads 3-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the upcoming edition of the IPL in the UAE.


Dhoni who comeback to competitive cricket will be one of the major touching points of this season's IPL is looking in ominous touch with the willow ahead of the much awaited 13th edition of the league.

If one were to go by Chennai Super Kings CEO KS Viswanathan, Dhoni is looking in sublime form as he has been striking the ball in all directions even after making a comeback to the cricket field after over a year of self imposed hiatus to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dhoni has been striking the ball in "all directions,"

The Indian players of Chennai Super Kings took part in a six-day conditioning camp ahead of the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League, which will begin on September 19 in the United Arab Emirates.

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“Dhoni is striking the ball very well. And there were plenty of sixes in all directions. Dhoni was his usual self, relaxed, confident and happy," Viswanathan said in a conversation with Sportstar.

Vishwanathan went onto reveal that the CSK brigade had no clue whatsoever over Dhoni's plan to retire from international cricket, adding that the 'Yellow Shirts' only got to know about their stalwarts announcement through his Instagram post.

"He also added that the team also got the news of his retirement through his Instagram post. “The team was surprised," he said.

Speaking on the conditioning camp held by CSK at Chennai before departing to the UAE, the team CEO said that the camp was essential for the players as it helped them to get back into cricketing mode and eventually fine their form and rhythm ahead of the upcoming season.

“The boys had not trained for a long time and this was good for them. Coming after a break, they did not stretch themselves fully. That could have led to injuries. But the cricketers gradually found their rhythm,” Viswanathan said.

He further said that Murali Vijay and Rituraj Gaekwad were impressive with the bat.

“I thought M. Vijay was striking the ball very well. So was Rituraj Gaekwad. We have a lot of options in the side,” he said. One of the net bowlers also impressed him -- Ashwin Christ. Crist was there on all the days. He was bowling well. In fact, he looked sharp. The boys are in the right frame of mind. The signs are good for CSK,” he said.