Highlighting Dhoni\u2019s importance to the five-time champions, Pathan said it is difficult to imagine both CSK and the IPL without the iconic wicketkeeper-batter.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cCSK is incomplete without MS Dhoni. This season might be the last time we see him in the yellow jersey, and it\u2019s tough to imagine CSK and the IPL without him. This season, Dhoni will play an important role in bringing everyone together. I\u2019m not sure how many games he will play. But his presence in the dressing room will help a lot. Ruturaj Gaikwad is the leader. But as a group, two or three guys are being groomed for the future. That is where MS Dhoni comes in. I hope he makes a difference,\" Pathan told Jio Hotstar.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
According to Pathan, CSK\u2019s management is likely to take a careful approach regarding Dhoni\u2019s workload throughout the season and will also try to give a good farewell to their stalwart by winning the sixth title.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cQuestions about his fitness, batting position, and whether he will play all games will still come up. The CSK team management will take it step by step. They will definitely look to give him a perfect farewell by lifting their sixth IPL trophy,\u201d he added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Dhoni is one of the most influential players in the CSK ranks and is a core member of the leadership group. He has won five titles for the team during his captaincy stint.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cQuestions about his fitness, batting position, and whether he will play all games will still come up. The CSK team management will take it step by step. They will definitely look to give him a perfect farewell by lifting their sixth IPL trophy,\u201d he added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Dhoni is still one of the finest batters in IPL history, with 5,439 runs in 278 matches and 242 innings at an average of 38.80, a strike rate of 137.45, and 24 fifties, with a best score of 84 not out.<\/p>\r\n\r\n