IPL 13: Bowlers will have to be careful while facing Dhoni, warns Pathan

New Delhi, Aug 17 (IANS) Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has warned the bowlers to be careful when they bowl to MS Dhoni in the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) starting September 19 in the UAE.

Dhoni last Saturday announced his retirement from international cricket, thus bringing an end to an illustrious career spanning more than 16 years.

"When he (Dhoni) comes to play in the IPL, I think all the bowlers who've retired will be very happy that they are not bowling against MS Dhoni- because he is going to go with full flow," Pathan said while speaking on Star Sports Cricket Connected show.

"Anyways, when he plays for CSK, he enjoys that, his best comes out as a batsman as well. But in this IPL, I am really looking forward to it. All the bowlers, be careful," he added.

Dhoni last played professional cricket during India's semi-final defeat to New Zealand in 2019 World Cup. After that, he took a sabbatical and has been away from cricket.

Meanwhile, former Indian batsman VVS Laxman believes there would be absolute fervour during the IPL whenever Dhoni plays.

Dhoni, the only captain to win all three ICC trophies, will be leading Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in an attempt to win their fourth IPL trophy.

"Number one is that we all have to recognise that he (Dhoni) is very passionate about CSK. One of the reasons CSK has been the most successful franchise has been MS Dhoni's leadership. So, he will go out and he will do everything possible for CSK to win the trophy," said Laxman

"But as far as fans are concerned, I think the euphoria will be there to be seen. Till the time he is going to play cricket, he will be captaining CSK.

"I think each and every movement of MS Dhoni will be watched very closely and will be relished by each and every cricketing fan of his. So, they will enjoy each and every moment MS Dhoni spends on the cricket field," he added.