News desk: Four years after his retirement from international cricket, Mahendra Singh Dhoni has successfully transformed himself into a formidable lower-order batsman for the Chennai Super Kings, his Indian Premier League (IPL) team. Sports journalist Suresh Menon reflects on the remarkable reinvention of the 41-year-old cricketing superstar.

When the IPL is done and dusted this season, it might not be a bad idea to give the trophy a name.

If anyone symbolises the tournament and what it means to the fans, it has to be Dhoni. He has been the face of the IPL forever. The “MS Dhoni Trophy” has a nice ring to it.

Dhoni was the most expensive player in the inaugural edition in 2008. Fifteen years later he continues to be Chennai Super Kings’s (CSK) most valuable player, gathering in himself all that is the best and most exciting in the concept of the T20 franchise tournament itself.

Even in Chennai, a city of film stars and politicians who are worshipped and celebrated by millions, Dhoni stands out, especially in the few weeks of the IPL. The connect between the CSK and their fans is special, and in Dhoni they have the man who is CSK. He continues to be a six-hitter of amazing gifts, and leads with rare acumen. No match is a lost cause while the tall wicketkeeper-captain is still on the field.

Four years ago Dhoni announced his retirement from international cricket. Every year since then, the question of him giving up all forms of cricket has exercised the minds of critics and fans alike. But Dhoni’s mind has been occupied with other things, like leading CSK to one more IPL title to add to the four already in the bag, and raising hopes for his fans that he might make it five this year to match the Mumbai Indians’ record.