Jharkhand Election 2024: Former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni, along with his wife Sakshi, arrived at a Ranchi polling booth to cast their votes for the Jharkhand assembly elections. The video of their visit is now going viral on social media. In the video, fans surround Dhoni from all sides, eager to catch a glimpse of their favourite cricketer. With assistance from the police and security personnel on-site, Dhoni managed to reach the centre and cast his vote.
MS Dhoni’s Role in Jharkhand Elections and Upcoming IPL Season
Notably, Dhoni was appointed as the brand ambassador for Jharkhand’s assembly elections. The Chief Electoral Officer confirmed that the Commission received Dhoni’s consent to use his photo for election promotion. The Indian Legend was employed to increase awareness among voters under the SWEEP (Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation) program.
Dhoni Set for Another IPL Season
In addition to his civic role, Dhoni is gearing up for another season with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL. CSK retained him under the ‘uncapped player’ category for Rs 4 crore in the lead-up to the mega auction. However, it is not yet confirmed whether Dhoni will continue to play further or the upcoming season will be his last season. Fans are eagerly waiting to see him in action again.
#WATCH | Former Indian cricket team captain MS Dhoni along with his wife, Sakshi arrives at a polling booth in Ranchi to cast his vote for #JharkhandAssemblyElections2024 pic.twitter.com/KlD68mXdzM
— ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2024
A rule reinstated in 2021 states that an Indian player if capped but hasn’t played international cricket in the last five years and lacks a central BCCI contract, is classified as ‘uncapped.’ This rule made Dhoni eligible to be retained as an uncapped player. Alongside Dhoni, CSK also retained Ruturaj Gaikwad (INR 18 crore), Mathisha Pathirana (INR 13 crore), Shivam Dube (INR 12 crore), and Ravindra Jadeja (INR 18 crore).
Tha7⃣a + Chinna Thala3⃣ = Yellove Era💛#WhistlePodu #Yellove pic.twitter.com/eIwalXL7GH
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) November 12, 2024
Viswanathan Hopes Dhoni Continues to Play
Kasi Viswanathan, the Yellow Army’s CEO, expressed yesterday CSK’s desire to have Dhoni continue playing for as long as he wishes. He said, “As far as CSK is concerned, we are hoping that he continues to play as long as possible. As long as MS Dhoni wants to play, the doors of CSK are open for him.” He concluded by adding, “Looking at his commitment and dedication, we can say that he will always make the right decision regarding his retirement.”
As Dhoni continues his journey with CSK, both his fans and the IPL audience are looking forward to another thrilling season. Dhoni’s enduring influence both in cricket and civic engagements underscores his iconic status in Indian society.