[Watch] "I came to know from Instagram" - MS Dhoni opens up on the 'Thala for a Reason' trend
Former Indian captain MS Dhoni recently opened up on the 'Thala for a Reason' trend by mentioning how he knew about it only through Instagram. Dhoni, fondly called 'Thala', retired from international cricket in 2020 but continues to weave his magic in the IPL.
His fans have made it a trend to connect several highlight cricket or non-cricket related with his jersey number '7' followed by a #Thala for a Reason.
When asked about the same during an event, Dhoni admitted he wasn't even aware of the trend until finding out through Instagram.
Watch him reveal the same and thank fans for their constant support in the video below:
Dhoni said in the video:
"I didn't know it myself ( on Thala for a Reason trend). I came to know from Instagram. I am grateful for my fans because I don't need to talk too much on Social Media or Instagram. When it's needed, fans defend me, they praise me. I don't need to do anything and this was also part of that, so I am very grateful to my fans."
He added:
"I am not active on Social Media but still they love the fact whenever I post something, they love it. They just wait for it and love it, so grateful to them."
MS Dhoni remains Team India's most successful captain with 178 wins in 332 games across formats.
The 43-year-old also led India to three ICC titles in the 2007 T20 World Cup, the 2011 ODI World Cup, and the 2013 Champions Trophy.
"Needs to be in the best interest of the team" - MS Dhoni on returning for IPL 2025
During the same event, MS Dhoni was asked about his IPL future to which he responded by saying the decision will be made in the best interest of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise.
With the rules and regulations regarding the IPL 2025 Mega Auction not yet finalized, Dhoni's participation in the tournament remains undecided. The champion cricketer enjoyed an outstanding 2024 season, scoring 161 runs at an average of 53.67 and a strike rate of 220.55 in 14 outings.
Yet, CSK missed the playoffs after a heartbreaking defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in their group-stage finale.
"There is a lot of time for it. We have to see what decision they take on player retention etc. Right now, the ball is not in our court. So, once the rules and regulations get formalised, I will take a call, but needs to be in the best interest of the team," said Dhoni.
Much like international cricket, MS Dhoni has been incredibly successful as captain in the IPL with 133 wins in 226 games.
However, despite leading CSK to five IPL titles, he relinquished the role to Ruturaj Gaikwad before the start of the 2024 season.