In 2020, Dhoni announced his retirement from international cricket via his Instagram, posting a selection of photos from his time as an international cricketer, with the song pal do pal ka shayar in the background.

The Ranchi-born keeper-batsman has since played cricket only in the IPL, winning two of his last four seasons with the Chennai Super Kings team and now stands alongside Rohit Sharma atop the list of captains with the most IPL trophies.

At the end of the recently concluded season, in anticipation of his future, Dhoni said: As you can see, this is a good time to announce his retirement. But by the amount of love and affection I’ve received this year everywhere I’ve been, it would have been easier for me to say. Thanks a lot, but the hardest part for me is working hard for another 9 months, coming back and playing at least 1 more season in the IPL.

He further added: A lot depends on the body, I have 6-7 months to make a decision. It will be more of a gift on my part, it’s not easy for me, but it’s a gift. The way they’ve shown their love and affection, I think that’s what I have to do for them.