'It could be MS Dhoni’s last game' - Shane Watson predicts ahead of RCB vs CSK clash

As the ongoing IPL 2024 season approaches its final stage, all eyes are on the match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium tonight. The match carries immense significance, not only for the playoff qualification but also for the potential farewell of MS Dhoni, the legendary CSK captain.

The defending champions have already played their final home game, and their last league match against RCB could potentially be Dhoni's farewell. With RCB currently sitting seventh and CSK fourth, the match carries huge significance for both teams' playoff prospects.

A loss for the hosts would eliminate them, but a win for CSK would guarantee their playoff spot. Even if Gaikwad & Co. lose by a narrower margin (about a 10% shortfall or less than the actual aim), they will still qualify due to their greater net run rate.

Former Australian all-rounder and CSK opener, Shane Watson, has made a bold prediction for the RCB vs CSK clash. "Well, the IPL is hitting a crescendo and it's playoffs time and there's one more spot up for grabs. And here's my prediction for the fourth spot in the playoffs. It's a big, big match, CSK vs RCB at the Chinnaswamy stadium, and my heart is saying CSK," Watson said in a video posted on his social media account.

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For me CSK can make it to the playoffs: Shane Watson

Watson's prediction is rooted in his belief that the CSK players will be motivated to produce an incredible performance, driven by the desire to prolong Dhoni's illustrious career.

"I've just got a feeling that everyone is going to rally around at CSK because it could be MS Dhoni’s last game for CSK and no one wants it to be his last game," he added.

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He acknowledged RCB's impressive run, with Virat Kohli in great form and the team winning five games in a row, but expressed his confidence in CSK's ability to secure a playoff spot.

"So I've got a feeling that the players are going to come together and produce an incredible performance at the Chinnaswamy. But Virat Kohli, he's going to have something to say about that. He's been on fire. RCB have won five in a row, so it's going to be an incredible game of cricket. But for me CSK can make it to the playoffs. And then you never know CSK know better than anyone how to win the IPL final," Watson concluded.