Watch: MS Dhoni Makes Unexpected Visit To RCB Dressing Room Before Crucial IPL 2024 Showdown

IPL 2024: The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are gearing up for a crucial clash against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at M Chinnaswamy Stadium on May 18. This do-or-die game will significantly impact the playoff chances for both teams.

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Viral Video shows Dhoni in RCB dressing room

CSK has already arrived at the venue to prepare for the match. Ahead of this high-stakes encounter, a touching moment involving CSK's MS Dhoni was shared on social media, showing him inside the RCB dressing room. In the heartwarming clip, the 42-year-old Dhoni was seen sharing a beverage in the dressing room. RCB shared the video across their social media platforms with the caption, ¡°Welcome to Bengaluru, Mahi!¡± on Instagram.

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MS Dhoni seen bowling in nets

As the excitement builds, CSK seems to be planning a surprise for RCB. Another video on CSK's official social media accounts has created a fresh buzz among fans. In this video, the star wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni is seen bowling in the nets. Despite playing all matches this season while managing a knee injury, Dhoni's appearance in the nets has fueled speculations that this could be his last season in the IPL. If true, the match against RCB might serve as a farewell game for the former CSK captain.

Currently, RCB stands in sixth place in the IPL 2024 points table. Having played 13 matches, they have secured six wins and faced seven losses. Under the leadership of Faf du Plessis, RCB needs to win against the five-time champions, CSK, by a significant margin to keep their playoff hopes alive. Specifically, they need to win by either 20 runs or with 11 balls to spare, assuming a first-innings score of 200, to satisfy the required net run rate calculations.

Also Read: IPL 2024: Rain Threatens RCB vs CSK Match As Dark Clouds Gather Over Stadium

For CSK, the defending champions, the path to qualification is simpler. They will advance to the playoffs if RCB fails to meet their specific victory margin requirements or loses the game outright. Recently, the Pat Cummins-led Sunrisers Hyderabad became the third team to qualify for the knockout stages, joining Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals.

When he bowls, just ADORABOWL! ??#WhistlePodu #Yellove @msdhoni pic.twitter.com/e1BaGaWduA

¡ª Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) May 16, 2024

The race for the fourth spot in the standings is intense, with CSK and RCB being the main contenders. However, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Delhi Capitals (DC) still have mathematical chances. LSG, with their low net run rate, face a steep challenge. They must win their final group game against Mumbai Indians by an extremely large margin to remain in contention for the knockouts.

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As the countdown to this decisive match continues, fans eagerly await the outcome that will determine which team secures the final playoff spot.

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