MS Dhoni leaves CSK training camp due to suspension of IPL

Former Indian wicket-keeper MS Dhoni left the practice session of the Chennai Super Kings following the postponement of the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. The IPL was earlier scheduled to be held from March 29, 2020, but has now been suspended till April 15.

"It has become your home sir!" Keep whistling, as #Thala Dhoni bids a short adieu to #AnbuDen. 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/XUx3Lw4cpH

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 14, 2020

Following the news, Dhoni, who had arrived in Chennai to prepare for the IPL on March 1, has left the city and returned to Ranchi.

“It has become your home, sir!’ Keep whistling, as #Thala Dhoni bids a short adieu to #AnbuDen,” Chennai Super Kings wrote on its twitter handle along with a short video.

In the video, fans lined up to catch a glimpse of the former Indian skipper as he interacted with fans and signed autographs for them.

The upcoming IPL would have been a crucial one for Dhoni, who has not played any professional cricket since the semis of the 59-over World Cup last year in July. After being dropped from the BCCI annual contracts, there was speculation that Dhoni would retire sooner than later, but reports suggested that the 38-year old was keen to play in the upcoming T20 World Cup that is to be held in Australia later this year.

Ravi Shastri, head coach of the Indian team, too had added that Dhoni’s performance in the IPL would determine his Team India future and whether he would be in the fray for a selection in the squad for the World Cup. To prepare himself and give himself a final shot at glory, the Ranch player landed in Chennai on March 1, but with the coronavirus outbreak, he has been forced to head back home.

The pandemic has caused serious question marks over the staging of IPL 2020 as well, with the BCCI likely to wait till next month to determine the future of the league this year.