Former Team India skipper MS Dhoni had struggled to hit his best form for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League, after announcing his retirement from international cricket on August 15, 2020, alongside Suresh Raina.
Dhoni, reportedly, has decided against featuring in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 trophy ahead of the IPL Season 14. The COVID-19 enforced lockdown, as well as an extended break from international cricket, saw Dhoni struggle to impose himself in the IPL 2020 for CSK in UAE.
Amidst confusion over his retirement from all formats of the game, following CSK’s exit from IPL 13, Dhoni assured that he’ll continue to lead CSK in the upcoming 14th edition of the cash-rich league.
Many expected Dhoni to play in the upcoming Mushtaq Ali Trophy, a T20 tournament, to regain some form ahead of IPL 2021. Unlike Raina, Dhoni, however, has, reportedly, decided against featuring in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
Dhoni will return to action during the IPL but such a long gap becomes huge, especially for a cricketer who is 39 years old. It remains to be seen how Dhoni redeems himself.
Nonetheless, the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy will take place from January 10 to 31 across 6 different venues. The players will be kept under a bio-secure bubble.