The Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai holds a special place in Indian cricket history, etched into the annals of time by MS Dhoni’s iconic six that sealed India’s victory in the 2011 ODI World Cup final. Fourteen years later, on April 14, 2023, Dhoni, now 42, could be gracing the hallowed turf for the last time as a player in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are set to face five-time champions Mumbai Indians in Mumbai on Sunday, and the spotlight will undoubtedly be on Dhoni. Having relinquished the CSK captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad at the start of the season, Dhoni’s decision has hinted at a possible farewell to the cash-rich league.
Despite his age, Dhoni remains an ageless wonder, showcasing his exceptional glovework and blistering batting skills. In his first outing this season against Delhi Capitals, he hammered 37 runs off just 16 deliveries, including three sixes and four fours. He also became the first wicketkeeper to claim 300 dismissals in T20 history during the same match.
The Wankhede Stadium holds a special significance for Dhoni, as it was where he led India to World Cup glory in 2011. The Mumbai Cricket Association has even given special status to the two seats where Dhoni’s winning six landed.
With the playoffs this season being held in Ahmedabad and Chennai, Sunday’s match could be Dhoni’s last appearance at the Wankhede Stadium. The possibility of witnessing the legendary cricketer play on this hallowed ground for the final time has added an emotional dimension to the game.
