MS Dhoni Retirement: IPL 2023 Final: In a thrilling finale that had fans on the edge of their seats, Chennai Super Kings emerged victorious against the Gujarat Titans to claim their fifth Indian Premier League (IPL) title. However, the highlight of the evening came after the match, as CSK captain MS Dhoni announced that he will try his level best to return to IPL next season for his fans. Follow IPL Final 2023 Highlights with InsideSport.IN
Also Read: Watch Dramatic last over of IPL 2023 Final as Ravindra Jadeja outsmarts Mohit Sharma
Speculations regarding Dhoni’s retirement had been circulating throughout the tournament, and the cricketing world eagerly awaited his decision. As the final ended with CSK’s win, Dhoni took the opportunity to ensure his fans that he will work hard on his fitness to return next season.
“This is the best time to announce my retirement. But the amount of love I have received all over. The easy thing would be to walk away from here, but the harder thing would be working hard for 9 months and try to play another IPL. It would be a gift from me, won’t be easy on the body”, Dhoni said in the post-match presentation.
Throughout the tournament, Dhoni had been overwhelmed by the unwavering support of the fans, even during away matches. He expressed his gratitude, saying, “You do get emotional, the first game at CSK everyone was chanting my name. My eyes were full of water, I needed to take some time off in the dugout. I realized I need to enjoy this. I think they love me for what I am, they love that I am so grounded, I don’t try to portray something I’m not. Just keep it simple.”
The IPL 2023 final, which was initially scheduled for Sunday in Ahmedabad, was postponed to the reserved day due to heavy rain. Opting to field first after winning the toss, Chennai Super Kings were given a daunting target of 215 in 20 overs courtesy of Sai Sudharsan’s brilliant 47-ball 96.
However, rain interrupted play during the first over of CSK’s innings, leading to a revised target of 171 runs in 15 overs. CSK’s opening pair of Devon Conway (47) and Ruturaj Gaikwad (26) set the stage with a powerful partnership, and Ajinkya Rahane (27), Ambati Rayudu (19), and Shivam Dube (32*) contributed crucial runs in the middle order. Ultimately, it was Jadeja’s heroics on the final delivery that sealed the 5th title for Chennai Super Kings.
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