Mumbai: Former India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni discussed the challenges of playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) at 42, emphasizing that there is no “discount for age” in professional sports. Despite CSK’s exit from the playoffs after a loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Dhoni’s fitness and competitive spirit remain intact as he continues to compete against younger, active international players.
Dhoni, who played under the leadership of Ruturaj Gaikwad this season, noted that staying fit and focused is essential even without playing cricket year-round. Reflecting on his career and post-retirement life, Dhoni mentioned his passion for farming, motorbikes, and vintage cars as ways to de-stress and stay mentally active.
“The toughest thing is… I am not playing cricket throughout the year. So I have to be fit. Once I come, you are competing against youngsters who are fit and playing international cricket. Professional sport is not easy, nobody gives you a discount for age. If you want to play, you have to be as fit as the other guy. Age does not really give that grace to you. So, eating habits, a bit of training and all those things are there,” Dhoni said in a video on Dubai Eye 103.8 YouTube channel on Monday.
“Social media, thankfully, I am not on social media, so there’s less distraction.”
“Once I quit international cricket, I wanted to spend a bit more time with my family. But, at that same time, to be mentally active, to have that passion to stay focussed — for me, I love farming, for me it is the motorbikes, I have started getting into vintage cars. These things de-stress me. If am stressed, I would maybe go to the garage, spend a couple of hours over there and I will just be fine, I would come back,” he added.
“I have always felt growing up with a pet, whether it is a cat or a dog… I prefer dogs though. They have unconditional love towards you. I have said this in a previous interview, even if I lose a game and come back, my dog greets me the same way,” Dhoni further said.
Bowling consultant Eric Simons praised Dhoni’s performance and influence, highlighting his leadership and understanding of the game. “But I think anybody wants to speculate about his future, that is crazy. MS knows what he is going to do. I know that this year I have seen him hit the ball from the pre-tournament camp. So he is playing extremely well and he will make the decision. But he is a fantastic guy to be around. He has been fantastic to witness from the days I was with India and now with CSK. He is an incredible cricketer and an incredible individual in terms of his understanding of cricket and life. I think in many ways that what he passes on to guys is the incredible self-belief, never say die and a simple understanding of the game of cricket he can put it in simple words and I think that is one of the best things about him,” Simons said in the post-match press conference.
As fans speculate about Dhoni’s future in the IPL, his dedication and resilience continue to inspire both teammates and supporters alike.
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