Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni expressed admiration for his fans for their unique meme ‘Thala for a reason’ dedicated to him. The meme has been circulating widely on social media in the past few years, linking everything to Dhoni’s jersey number 7.
Interestingly, several memes flooded during the second test between India and New Zealand in Pune. The fans posted the same meme after Washington Sundar and Mitchell Santner scalped seven wickets for their respective teams.
On being asked about the meme, the 43-year-old reckoned that he doesn’t understand the context of the meme, but lauded his fans for bringing positivity into his life. As per the star cricketer, the fans turn up in huge numbers for his support, if anyone questions him. As a result, he can focus on playing to his full potential.
In an interview with Tanmay Bhat, Dhoni said:
“I do know, but I don’t know the reason behind it. I’m not sure whether it’s funny, meant to pull my leg, just banter, or a meme. But whatever it is, I think my fans have turned it into something positive for me. That’s what I feel.”
“I’ve got brilliant fans. I don’t need to speak up or say anything; they’re the ones who step up if someone questions me. I’m just keeping quiet and enjoying my life. I try to play good cricket, and that’s what matters to me,” he added.
Under MS Dhoni, the Chennai-based franchise went on to lift Indian Premier League (IPL) titles on five occasions – 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021 and 2023. In 264 games, Dhoni has garnered over 5,200 runs at a strike rate of 137.53, with 24 fifties.
MS Dhoni’s yet to decide on his participation in IPL 2025
As per latest reports, MS Dhoni’s participation in IPL 2025 is yet to be confirmed. According to CEO Kasi Viswanathan, Dhoni will update them about his availability before the retention deadline of October 31.
“We have still no confirmation from him, though we will like him to continue playing for us,” Viswanathan told ESPNcricinfo. “Hope he will confirm before 31st [October].”
The 2023 edition saw Dhoni pass on the captaincy baton to Ruturaj Gaikwad. Although, the side played well, they failed to clinch a playoff spot after losing against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their final league game.
Interestingly, MS Dhoni can be retained by CSK as an uncapped player as he has not featured in an international game for the last five years. His last international game was the 2019 World Cup semi-final against New Zealand. In a recent promotional event, Dhoni gave a signal of him wanting to enjoy last few years of cricket left in him.