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"Bahot Jaan Hai Uss Aadmi Me" Virat Kohli's RCB Fanboy Backs MS Dhoni For IPL 2026

Soumyajit Dutta

Swastik Chikara with MS Dhoni [Source: @great_tuber/X.com]Swastik Chikara with MS Dhoni [Source: @great_tuber/X.com]

RCB's young batting talent Swastik Chikara has offered a rare glimpse into the charismatic persona of MS Dhoni, revealing details of his first encounter with the legendary cricketer. The 20-year-old, who was part of Royal Challengers Bengaluru's triumphant IPL 2025 campaign, shared how Dhoni's humble demeanour left a lasting impression on him during their meeting.

Chikara Affirms MS Dhoni Will Play IPL 2026

Chikara's account highlights the continuing aura surrounding the former Indian captain, even as Dhoni approaches his mid-forties while maintaining his presence in the cricketing world. The youngster's enthusiastic testimony about Dhoni's energy levels has sparked fresh speculation about the veteran's future in the tournament.

The Uttar Pradesh batter, appearing on a YouTube podcast with CricXtasy, recounted the memorable interaction with remarkable clarity and enthusiasm.

“It was a completely different feeling, Thala for a reason. The reason is him, bro. I mean, he’s really a good person, I swear. Dhoni bhai is just Dhoni bhai. Yash bhaiya was also there, and he was saying, ‘You’re talking as if you’ve known him for 10 years,’” Chikara added.

Dhoni's Retirement? Not Anytime Soon

Chikara expressed strong conviction about MS Dhoni's continuing career, dismissing any immediate retirement talks based on his firsthand observation of the veteran's physical condition and enthusiasm.

“He’ll play, he'll play for sure, bro (IPL 2026). That man has so much energy. He’s very strong (Bahut jaan hai uss aadmi mein). He will play for sure. I don’t think he will retire anytime soon, in my opinion. We were laughing, joking, taking photos, and having fun. The conversation was casual. He asked where I’m from, and I said I live in a village. The chat was nice and relaxed. He said, ‘Good, you’re a desi guy,’ (Desi londa hai tu),” Chikara added.

In the 2025 edition, Dhoni scored 196 runs in 13 innings at an average of 24.50 with a strike rate of 135.17, demonstrating his continued value as a finisher despite Chennai Super Kings' disappointing campaign that saw them finish at the bottom of the table.