- MS Dhoni: South African veteran player AB de Villiers has given a statement about MS Dhoni, which may not be liked by Thala’s fans.
Source: Social Media
MS Dhoni: BCCI has shared the rules regarding IPL 2025 mega auction. During this, a rule was brought back, which was abolished by BCCI in 2021 IPL. This rule is that a player who retired from international cricket five years ago can be included in the team as an uncapped player.
Now this rule will be applicable again in IPL. But this rule will be applicable only on Indian players. The biggest benefit of this IPL rule will be to Team India and CSK’s former captain MS Dhoni. In such a situation, South African veteran player AB de Villiers has given a statement about Dhoni, which is going viral on social media.
AB de Villiers made a strange comment about MS Dhoni
Actually, according to the rules of IPL, MS Dhoni fits the criteria that he should be retained as an uncapped player. Let us tell you that Dhoni retired from international cricket in August 2020.
But he has been away from international cricket since July 2019, so he can be considered uncapped in the IPL. South African legend AB de Villiers has given his opinion on this matter. Also, he believes that this rule has been implemented because of Dhoni.
“Want to see Dhoni playing till the age of 80” – ABD
ABD said- I think the rule of uncapped player has been brought back for MS Dhoni and it is also right that we want to see this person playing till the age of 80. This statement of the African legend has come at a time when CSK sources, while talking to the media, have made it clear that the team has not yet taken any decision regarding Dhoni.
CSK will retain Dhoni
However, it is clear that CSK will keep MS Dhoni with them as an uncapped player. Actually, a meeting of all the team owners was held with the IPL Governing Council at the BCCI headquarters. During this, the owner of Chennai Super Kings made a demand from the BCCI. The former player should be named as an uncapped player. He had demanded this rule only to retain Dhoni.
AB de Villiers, former South African cricket legend and one of IPL’s most iconic figures, recently made headlines with a statement about MS Dhoni that has left some fans, especially the ardent ‘Thala’ supporters, raising eyebrows. In a light-hearted comment, De Villiers remarked that Dhoni has been around “for 80 years,” a playful exaggeration that, while clearly not literal, has sparked mixed reactions. Here’s what went down and why this comment has stirred up some chatter among Dhoni’s fanbase.
The Comment: A Playful Jab or a Pointed Remark?
In an interview, when discussing MS Dhoni’s longevity in the IPL, AB de Villiers humorously quipped, “He was there for 80 years…” It was a statement meant to underline Dhoni’s enduring presence in the league, but it struck a chord with many fans. For Dhoni’s loyal following, known as the ‘Thala Army,’ the comment may have come off as a slight against their favorite cricketer’s age and ongoing career.
However, it’s important to note that De Villiers and Dhoni share a mutual respect for each other as two of cricket’s greatest figures. De Villiers has previously spoken highly of Dhoni’s leadership skills, strategic mind, and remarkable resilience on the field. So, was this remark a playful jab, or was there more to it?
The Legacy of ‘Thala’ MS Dhoni in the IPL
MS Dhoni is more than just a player in the Indian Premier League; he’s an institution. Having led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to multiple championships and countless memorable victories, he has cemented his place as one of the league’s all-time greats. Dhoni’s impact extends beyond his statistics; he embodies the spirit and tenacity that CSK fans have come to love and admire.
Despite his age, Dhoni continues to play with the same intensity, earning admiration not just from his teammates but also from competitors like De Villiers. Dhoni’s ability to stay calm under pressure, make tactical decisions, and finish games has earned him the nickname ‘Thala,’ a term of endearment in Tamil Nadu that translates to ‘leader’ or ‘boss.’
Why the Comment Might Annoy ‘Thala’ Fans
For die-hard Dhoni fans, any remark that seems to question their hero’s ability or relevance on the field can be seen as a slight. The mention of “80 years” could be interpreted as an insinuation that Dhoni has overstayed his welcome, a notion that doesn’t sit well with those who believe he still has more to give.
- Age vs. Ability Debate: Dhoni’s fans have long argued that age is just a number, especially for someone as fit and focused as him. De Villiers’ comment, even if made in jest, might reignite debates about Dhoni’s age and whether it affects his performance.
- CSK Loyalty: The bond between Dhoni and the CSK fanbase is unparalleled. For fans, Dhoni is synonymous with CSK, and any suggestion that his time is up can feel like an affront to their loyalty and devotion.
- Sentimentality: Dhoni’s journey with CSK is a story of loyalty, perseverance, and triumph. Fans who have followed this journey since the inaugural IPL season in 2008 are emotionally invested. The idea of Dhoni ever hanging up his boots brings with it a wave of nostalgia and sadness, and any comment hinting at this inevitability can hit a nerve.
What Did AB de Villiers Really Mean?
De Villiers, known for his affable nature, likely intended the comment as a compliment to Dhoni’s extraordinary longevity. After all, playing in the IPL at the highest level requires incredible fitness and commitment. By exaggerating with “80 years,” he may have simply been underscoring Dhoni’s ability to defy the usual career lifespan of a cricketer.
In fact, many fans took to social media to point out that De Villiers, who retired from international cricket in 2018, might actually admire Dhoni’s ability to continue competing. It’s not uncommon for sportspeople to use humor to cope with the reality of aging in a competitive arena, and this might have been AB’s way of expressing respect.
Embracing the Legacy
As IPL fans, whether we support CSK or another franchise, we must acknowledge that Dhoni’s legacy is something to be celebrated. He has not only brought unparalleled glory to Chennai but has also inspired millions with his leadership and composure.
While AB de Villiers’ comment might be a talking point, it’s crucial to remember that he and Dhoni share a bond that transcends such remarks. De Villiers, like many others, respects Dhoni’s impact on the game and the IPL. Fans of both legends can hopefully appreciate the banter as part of the camaraderie and respect that exists between two giants of the sport.
Conclusion: A Light-hearted Moment in a Storied Rivalry
In the end, AB de Villiers’ comment about MS Dhoni playing for “80 years” is just another example of the playful banter that makes cricket such a beloved sport. For fans, it’s a reminder of the countless memories Dhoni has given us over the years and a testament to his resilience. While some might take the comment to heart, most fans will likely move on, knowing that Dhoni’s legacy is secure, no matter what anyone says.
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