MS Dhoni reflects on growing old after Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s post-match tribute

MS Dhoni reflects on getting old after Vaibhav Suryavanshi touches his feet post match. (Photo: IPL)

When asked how he felt after an IPL match when 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi touched his feet, legendary Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni became candid. Dhoni, the oldest player in the IPL this season, faced Vaibhav, the youngest in the league's history. Following the intense CSK vs RR match, the 14-year-old made sure to touch his feet in respect.

The two sides met earlier this week on Tuesday at Arun Jaitley Stadium, where Suryavanshi helped the Rajasthan Royals over the finish line in a 188-run chase with a brilliant innings of 33-ball 57. The left-handed batsman displayed his skills in front of Dhoni.

Suryavanshi touched Dhoni's feet during the traditional handshake that follows a game and a quick conversation. Later, close to the team's dressing room, the young batter went up to the CSK skipper once again and touched his feet respectfully before leaving.

After leading CSK to a decisive 83-run victory over Gujarat Titans in Sunday's season-ending match, Dhoni was questioned about the Suryavanshi’s gesture.

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During the presentation after the game, Harsha Bhogle questioned him, "How does it feel when someone like Vaibhav Suryavanshi meets you and touches your feet?"

In response, Dhoni said, "Well, definitely, you feel old," grinning.

The CSK captain also recounted an event on the squad bus where he asked 18-year-old Andre Siddharth and it made him feel old.

“Not to forget I have Andre (Siddharth) in my team. I sit on the last seat and he sits next to me. Was just having a chat and I asked him how old are you. He is exactly 25 years younger than me, that makes me feel I am seriously old,” he said.

Dhoni teased fans with uncertainty while remaining silent regarding his IPL future. He stated that he will take his time before deciding whether to return for the upcoming season and that he intends to enjoy bike rides around Ranchi.

“It depends,” Dhoni said after CSK’s dominant 83-run victory over Gujarat Titans.

“I’ve got 4-5 months to decide, there’s no rush. I just need to stay fit—you always have to be at your best. If cricketers start retiring for their performance, some of them will retire at 22. I will go back to Ranchi, enjoy a few bike rides. I am not saying I am done, not saying I am coming back. I have the luxury of timing. Will think about it and then decide," he added.