Dhoni "First One To Lift Me Up": Kumble Shares Intriguing Unheard Tale

Despite talks around his Indian Premier League (IPL) future, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) MS Dhoni is all set to lead the franchise in the upcoming season, starting March 22. The 42-year-old joined CSK's preparatory IPL camp earlier this month ahead of CSK first game of the season against the Royal Challengers Bangalore on the opening day. Legendary spinner Anil Kumble, who shared the dressing room with Dhoni during the latter stage of his international career, has shared an interesting story regarding the former India captain.

Despite not playing him in the IPL, Kumble revealed that Dhoni was the first player to lift him. Kumble also recalled his time as the head coach of India when Dhoni was the captain of the team.

"I never played with MS in the IPL. When I played with him in the Indian team, he was the first one to lift me up. I guess he was the strongest of the lot to lift a heavyweight. It was a fantastic moment for me. I remember, when I was coach and he was the captain, we were in Ranchi for a one-day game, for an optional practice session, he didn't need to come as Ranchi is his hometown. But he was there for the session. I said, 'What are you doing? We still have a couple of days before the next game.' He said, 'No, I just want to be around.' That's him," Kumble told Star Sports.

Drawing parallels between Dhoni and batting great Sachin Tendulkar, Kumble said that he won't be surprised if the CSK icon would continue to play beyond IPL 2024.

"Sachin was the same. When I was with Mumbai Indians, Sachin had played around 25 or 26 years of cricket. But on optional days, he'd be the first one to be in the bus. These two guys, I don't think can take a break. I won't be surprised if MS continues to play for CSK, because that's his optional session. He's so passionate, he wants to be there," he added.

The opening day of the IPL will see Dhoni going up against Virat Kohli in a Southern Derby between CSK and RCB.