New Delhi: In the Indian cricket circuit, Mahendra Singh Dhoni is more than just a name. The former Indian skipper has created innumerable memories for Indian cricket fans and is known for being in the headlines even after calling it quits from international cricket in 2020. His on and off-the-field charisma has got him a barrage of fans around the world and his impeccable decision-making and game sense as led him to the status of “one of the finest captains ever to lead India.”
Dhoni’s current status on social media is no less as fans pay their homage and respect to the legend with some iconic and memorable phrases which quickly become an internet trend. One such catchphrase is “Thala for a reason”, which signifies Dhoni’s supremacy while leading any team. Dhoni is often referred to as “Thala”, which is a Tamil word that stands for “head” or “leader”.
In a recent promotional event, Dhoni himself reacted to the viral trend and opined on it. He was asked if he was aware of this trend and if he knew the reason behind its inception. Dhoni replied, “I do know, but I don’t know the reason behind it. I don’t know if it’s funny or supposed to pull my leg, just banter, or a meme. But whatever it is, I think my fans have turned it into something that is in my favour. That’s what I feel.”
“I’ve got brilliant fans. I don’t need to open my mouth or say anything… they’re the ones if they feel somebody has been asking to me… they take care of it. I’m just keeping quiet and enjoying my life. I try to play good cricket, and that’s what matters to me,” Dhoni added.
Here’s the video of Dhoni’s reaction –
MS Dhoni about ‘THALA FOR A REASON’ trend :
“I don’t know the reason behind it. I don’t know It’s funny or supposed to pull my leg or whatever it is. I think, MY FANS HAVE TURNED IT INTO MY FAVOR that’s what I feel. I HAVE GOT BRILLIANT FANS” ❤pic.twitter.com/S7hT43SZmK
— DHONI Trends™ (@TrendsDhoni) October 25, 2024
Will Dhoni play in IPL 2025?
Dhoni, who is one of the most successful Indian captains, hung his boots in 2020. His leadership career is highlighted by the Indian team winning the T20 World Cup in 2007, the ODI World Cup in 2011, and the Champions Trophy in 2013. Dhoni’s achievements in the domestic circuit are no less flamboyant. He has already led his IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to five title triumphs, doing it last in 2023 and relinquishing the captaincy this year.
In recent times, there has been uncertainty around Dhoni’s participation in the next edition of the IPL. It still remains a secret whether Dhoni will be wearing the iconic yellow shirt of CSK once again and delight his fans. However, it will come to light officially when the ten teams announce their list of retained players for the upcoming season as the deadline (October 31) gets closer.