MS Dhoni Reveals the Secret to Being Fit for IPL Despite Being 43 Years Old
Mahendra Singh Dhoni, a veteran Indian cricketer, has been a stalwart in the Indian Premier League (IPL) since its inception 17 seasons ago. In a recent interview, Dhoni revealed that he still believes he can put in "six to eight months" of hard work to be fit for the league. This statement comes as a surprise, given his advanced age of 43. However, Dhoni’s determination to continue playing professionally is a testament to his passion for the sport and his commitment to his fitness regime.
The challenge of being fit for IPL
Dhoni stated that it takes a lot of hard work to be fit and ready for the two-month long IPL season, which is one of the most demanding tournaments in the world. He emphasized the importance of dedication and perseverance, saying, "I only play a couple of months in a year, but I want to enjoy it the way I started playing, that’s something that keeps me going." However, he also acknowledged the physical demands of the league, stating, "I need to put in a lot of hard work for six to eight months because IPL is one of the toughest tournaments. Nobody really cares about how old you are. If you’re playing at this level, the level needs to be the same."
Representing the Country and the Future of Cricket
Dhoni’s playing career has been marked by moments of incredible success, including three World Cup wins and five IPL titles with the Chennai Super Kings. When asked about his motivation, he revealed that representing his country was always his primary goal. He shared, "When I started playing international cricket, for me the biggest motivation was representing my country… I wanted to be part of a winning team, contribute to the country’s success."
However, now that he has retired from international cricket, his motivation has shifted to other aspects of his life. He stated, "For me, now, it’s the love for the sport. It’s hard work, but for me now, enjoying the game is the key aspect. When I’m not playing, I’m trying to be the best kind of a person that I can be, so that people remember me for being a good human being… that’s something that I’ve always had in my life."
Conclusion
MS Dhoni’s determination to continue playing in the IPL, despite his advanced age, is a testament to his unwavering passion for the sport. His commitment to his fitness regime and his motivation to excel at the highest level, even at 43, is an inspiration to fans and fellow cricketers alike. As he continues to chase his dreams, it will be fascinating to see how he fares in the upcoming season of the IPL.
