MS Dhoni’s Remarkable IPL 2025 Preparations-A Testament to His Fitness and Dedication

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is the sole platform where the game's fans get to see the brilliant MS Dhoni in action. As the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain, the ex-Indian skipper remains an integral part of the franchise even at 43. His dedication to the game and his immaculate level of fitness have been a motivation for many, including his ex-partner Harbhajan Singh.

Harbhajan Singh’s Surprise at Dhoni’s Fitness

Recently, Harbhajan Singh happened to meet MS Dhoni at a wedding, and what he observed left him stunned. The off-spinner was amazed by the physical condition of Dhoni, and he asked him how he maintains himself in such fantastic form at that age.

"I saw him the other day at my friend's daughter's wedding. He was just fit, rugged. I said to him, 'What are you doing at your age? Is that tough?'" Harbhajan said to ESPNcricinfo.

Dhoni's reaction was as simple as it was motivational. He acknowledged the difficulties but reaffirmed his love for the sport. "Yes, it is tough, but this is the only thing I enjoy playing. I enjoy it. I want to play, go out and play. While there's hunger, you can do it. It is tough without playing a little bit of cricket year-round," Dhoni confessed.

Even though he does not play any other competitive cricket except the IPL, Dhoni has a stringent training regime to remain at his peak. Unlike young cricketers, who have a hectic schedule of domestic and international games, Dhoni has to work twice as hard to remain match-fit.

Harbhajan shared insights into Dhoni’s training routine, revealing that the CSK captain has been batting in the nets for two to three hours daily since joining the team’s camp in Chennai. "The pre-tournament conditioning he is undertaking one-two months in advance also benefits him. The more you hit balls, the better the timing, the better the flow, the better the power hitting. He practices bat for hours daily. He would be first on the ground to report and the last to depart even at this age," said Harbhajan.

MS Dhoni's IPL Strategy

MS Dhoni is not only famous for his explosive batting and excellent wicket-keeping skills but also for his strategic abilities. Former player and commentator Aakash Chopra spoke about Dhoni's batting spot in the IPL. Although he has been urged to move up the batting order, Dhoni has usually opted to bat at No. 7 or No. 8, something that some would consider confusing.

Chopra examined the psychological makeup of Dhoni, specifically noting that the veteran wicket-keeper is very self-conscious. "He is very honest to himself. That is a lot. Many players are of the view that he needs to bat higher up in the order, but in his own mind, he is very definite about his weakness and strength. If he has to come in with 12 overs still remaining, he will feel that he might not survive a big innings. He knows his limitations. This type of honesty is not so prevalent," Chopra explained.

While Dhoni’s leadership and batting prowess are well-documented, his agility behind the stumps remains a marvel. Even at 43, his ability to effect lightning-fast stumpings and take sharp catches sets him apart from younger wicket-keepers. Chopra was amazed by Dhoni's unmatchable reflexes and added further: "I have never seen anybody with quicker hands than MS Dhoni. If the ball reaches him, you are out 9.5 out of 10 times. I don't know how he manages to do that. The hand doesn't return at all. He is lightening quick with gloves."

One of the most significant takeaways from Dhoni’s continued presence in the IPL is his sheer passion for the game. While many players retire due to the physical demands of professional cricket, Dhoni continues to push himself beyond limits. His fitness, dedication, and unwavering commitment ensure that he not only competes but dominates on the field.

His planning, innovating and executing plans to the best of his ability makes him worth his weight in gold to CSK. As he prepares to set foot on the stage once again with another IPL season, the fans and players around the world can only look up in amazement at his age and the grip he has over himself to still play at his best.

Conclusion

MS Dhoni’s journey in the IPL is a testament to his resilience, work ethic, and love for the game. Whether it’s his meticulous training routine, his astute game awareness, or his lightning-fast glovework, he continues to inspire generations of cricketers. As the IPL 2025 season approaches, cricket fans eagerly await yet another masterclass from one of the game’s greatest icons.