IPL 2021: 3 reasons why we're excited to see MS Dhoni in action

MS Dhoni may not be at his vintage best, but he will still continue to be an essential part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the second phase of the 2021 Indian Premier League (IPL).

The CSK skipper has led his team to second place in this year's points table, defying the odds after an indifferent campaign in 2020, that saw the Men in Yellow miss out on the playoffs for the first time in their history.

Dhoni has split opinion over the last few years, with his waning strike rate and ability to finish games coming under criticism. But cricket fans remain tuned in, expecting the former India captain to still pull a rabbit out of his hat.

Here are three reasons why we're excited to see MS Dhoni in action.

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#3 IPL 2021 might be MS Dhoni's best chance at winning another trophy

CSK all-rounder Moeen Ali during IPL 2021

CSK have defied the odds in IPL 2021. After being written off by most former players and experts at the start of the season, the three-time champions have been almost impossible to beat this season.

Riding on the back of brilliant performances from Ruturaj Gaikwad, Faf du Plessis, Moeen Ali and Ravindra Jadeja, and backed by players such as Deepak Chahar and Sam Curran, CSK are just one win away from topping the table.

Now that English and Australian players have been cleared for the second phase of the tournament, CSK will continue to be one of the favorites for the title. This campaign might be MS Dhoni's best chance to win a trophy with his beloved CSK, who will have to make big moves in the auction next year and may not taste success immediately.

Dhoni will want to sign off on a high by leading CSK to another IPL crown, assuming he wants to retire in the near future.

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#2 We haven't seen MS Dhoni play in a long time

CSK skipper MS Dhoni during IPL 2021

The first phase of IPL 2021 was the last time we saw MS Dhoni in action. The IPL is the only tournament he's active in right now, having retired from international cricket.

Dhoni attracts eyeballs every time he steps onto the field, even if his performances have been slightly underwhelming. Everyone wants to catch a glimpse of India's most successful captain in limited-overs cricket as he winds down his incredible career.

Dhoni's six-hitting spree hasn't been as fearsome in IPL 2021, but we tune in, in the hope that he produces a vintage innings out of nowhere. Moreover, the 40 year old's captaincy and wicketkeeping are still a treat to watch.

We haven't seen MS Dhoni play in a long time, which is reason enough to be excited about his return.

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#1 This could be the last time we see MS Dhoni in action

CSK skipper MS Dhoni in action during IPL 2021

When MS Dhoni was run out by Martin Guptill in the semifinal of the 2019 ODI World Cup, how many people knew that it would be his last international game? Sure, speculation had been rife, but Dhoni has always been someone who played the game on his own terms.

Dhoni eventually announced his retirement in August 2020, with all signs pointing towards him being involved solely in the IPL. Now, with next year's mega-auction expected to push CSK into rebuilding mode, the skipper might be fighting his last battle this campaign.

MS Dhoni has served the teams he has played for with utmost dedication. Fans will always be excited to see Dhoni in action, and this IPL might be his final hurrah.