Amidst the jubilation and celebration following Royal Challengers Bangalore’s 27-run victory over Chennai Super Kings, a video capturing a dejected MS Dhoni walking off the ground without shaking hands with RCB players sparked controversy. This act has drawn the ire of former England captain Michael Vaughan, who condemned the RCB players for their lack of sportsmanship.
Dhoni, who had led CSK to four IPL titles, found himself on the losing side as his team’s playoff hopes were dashed. In the aftermath of the match, as RCB players erupted in celebration, Dhoni emerged from the dugout and stood near the boundary ropes to congratulate them. However, after waiting for a while without any response, he turned and walked away, shaking hands with the RCB support staff instead.
Vaughan, speaking to Cricbuzz after the match, expressed his dismay at the RCB players’ behavior. He emphasized that they should have shown more awareness and respect towards Dhoni, especially considering that it could have been his final IPL appearance. Vaughan stated, “If there was ever a time for a group of players to show awareness, we don’t know, if that was MS Dhoni’s last game and those players have run around the ground doing handstands when all they need to do is wait, ‘the legend’s over there. We have to just go and shake his hand’.”
Vaughan went on to say, “You shake hands and then do your cartwheels and stuff. I wouldn’t want to be an RCB player waking up tomorrow morning thinking MS Dhoni has just announced his retirement and we didn’t have the decency to go and shake his hand first.”
Dhoni has yet to announce whether he will continue playing in the IPL, but it was widely expected that he would make a farewell appearance in Chennai, where the 2024 final will be held. However, CSK’s poor performance in the second half of the season denied Dhoni that opportunity.
Vaughan’s criticism of the RCB players has sparked a debate on sportsmanship and the importance of showing respect to opponents, even in the heat of competition.
