'He’s crucial to Chennai' - Ricky Ponting on what lies ahead for MS Dhoni

Legendary Australian skipper Ricky Ponting has revealed some interesting facts about iconic Indian captain MS Dhoni's changing role for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Speaking on The ICC Review with Sanjana Ganesan, Ponting shared his thoughts shortly after CSK decided to retain their celebrated leader. The two-time World Cup-winning Australian skipper spoke about Dhoni's journey, particularly speaking about his flexibility after a challenging period. 

“Two seasons ago he probably had his worst season, but then last year again, he bounced back into really impacting some games like the MS Dhoni of old," Ponting said. 

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Best players are able to maintain such a high level for a long time: Ricky Ponting

Looking ahead, Ponting also pointed out managing Dhoni's involvement in the upcoming 2025 season. According to Ponting, what sets Dhoni apart is his multifaceted contribution to CSK. Even when not actively playing or captaining, his presence remains invaluable. 

"I think it will be exactly the same now...they might not get him through the whole season. They might think about leaving him out for a game and resting him up here and there to make sure that they’re getting the best out of him. Any team that he's in, whether he's captain or not, he's always going to be a mentor and a leader around that group, whether he’s playing, whether he’s sitting on the sidelines, that’s just who he is…he’s crucial to Chennai, for that leadership that he brings on and off the field,” Ponting added.

While the former Indian skipper's batting position has moved lower down the order, his impact is the same. In the previous edition, the 43-year-old in 14 matches, scored 161 runs at a strike rate of 220.55.

“He’s actually batting the last 20 balls of an innings now but still showing that you can make a big impact on the game by doing that. The best players are the ones that are able to maintain such a high level for a long time…for 10, 12, 14-year careers,” Ponting continued.