In an exclusive interview with India Today, Richard Madley, the former IPL auctioneer, reflected on the moment that changed cricket forever. “MS Dhoni, going once, going twice, sold to Chennai Super Kings for Rs 8 crore,” Madley recalled, his voice still echoing with the excitement of that historic moment in February 20081.
SOURCE : ZEE
The inaugural IPL auction was a spectacle, but none more so than the bidding war for Dhoni. With Rajasthan Royals fresh off securing Shane Warne and Mumbai Indians also in the mix, the competition was fierce1. However, it was CSK’s strategic and last-minute push, led by VB Chandrasekhar, that clinched the deal. “I knew cricket had changed forever,” Madley said, remembering the frenzy that unfolded in the room1.
Source:- bbc news
The base price for Dhoni was $400,000, but the bidding quickly escalated, reaching $1 million before CSK finally secured him for $1.5 million. “You quickly think – wow, for a cricketer to play in a tournament for six weeks, that’s amazing,” Madley added1.
Dhoni’s impact on CSK and the IPL has been nothing short of legendary. Under his captaincy, CSK won five IPL titles and consistently remained one of the league’s most formidable teams1. His leadership style, calm demeanor, and unparalleled connection with Tamil Nadu earned him the title of “Thala” (leader), making him a cultural phenomenon.
In IPL 2024, Dhoni passed the captaincy torch to Ruturaj Gaikwad, taking on a mentorship role while still delivering match-winning performances. Retained for Rs 4 crore ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction, speculation continues about whether this season will be Dhoni’s swansong1.
“Whether this season becomes his swansong or another chapter in his storied career, one truth is undeniable: Dhoni’s journey from Ranchi to becoming ‘Thala’ will forever define the legacy of CSK and the IPL,” Madley concluded.
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