Shaji Ul Mulk, the founder and chairman of T Ten Global Sports, has opened the door to the possibility of Indian cricket icon MS Dhoni playing in the T10 format.
Although a big mystery persists over Dhoni’s future in the IPL, watching him in T10 leagues could well become a possibility. The 41-year-old Dhoni has kept mum on his retirement plans, and age factor. Coupled with ongoing knee problems and Chennai Super Kings’ exit in the group stage of the IPL this season, have also thrown speculations into the mix. Yet, no official word on Dhoni’s future in the IPL has come.
But with several big former and current stars already plying their trade in the T10 format. The prospect of Dhoni making his mark in this shortest format may just prove to be a reality. Big names such as David Warner, Robin Uthappa, Suresh Raina, and Irfan Pathan among others have already showcased their talents in various T10 leagues around the world.
Mulk pointed to the trend: “Absolutely, I think outside of the top level of international cricketers playing. Current India internationals are not allowed to play outside of the Indian Premier League. The recently retired players all the big names of India-have come to play T10. So yes, we can expect MS Dhoni to be playing T10 when he makes up his mind.”
This statement by Mulk adds more fuel to the speculations. That Dhoni might finally make his way into the T10 arena. The T10 leagues, such as the Abu Dhabi T10, are fast gaining global recognition. And with Dhoni having such a huge following, his participation will further add excitement to the event.
Abu Dhabi T10 2024 will be the biggest so far, boasting 179 international megastars in it. Teams from 11 different nations will be part of it: West Indies, UAE, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. It also speaks volumes about the growing popularity of T10 at an international level.
Matthew Boucher, the CEO of Abu Dhabi Cricket, said optimistically, “It seems like T10 is having a fantastic couple of years. From our perspective. We absolutely love it. It is something that is taking off on a global perspective.”
Though the future of MS Dhoni is still uncertain in the IPL. The doors for him to play in the T10 format are not shut.
ANI