[WATCH] Fans Raise Massive MS Dhoni Cutout Ahead Of IND Vs NZ 5th T20I

Fans in Thiruvananthapuram set up a gigantic cutout of legendary former India captain MS Dhoni ahead of the fifth T20I against New Zealand. The coastal city is scheduled to host the match on Saturday, January 31, at the Greenfield International Stadium.

Ahead of the contest, visuals showed supporters installing a towering 50-foot cutout of Dhoni in the Indian jersey. The cutout was mounted on a tall frame, with fans at the top and bottom pulling ropes to secure it in place.

The massive display was put up by members of the All Kerala Dhoni Fans Association, as revealed in the video circulating on social media. You can watch the video here:

MS DHONI CRAZE IN KERALA – It's a celebration for Thala during the 5th T20I today. 💛 pic.twitter.com/qjolQdeW2h

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) January 31, 2026

India lead the five-match T20I series 3-1, having won the first three encounters and clinched the series with commanding performances. New Zealand responded strongly in the fourth T20I, securing a convincing 50-run win.

In the final match, the Kiwis will look to build on their momentum and register another victory, while the Men in Blue will aim to end the series on a high note. The game holds significant importance for both sides, as it marks their last outing before the T20 World Cup 2026.

MS Dhoni Kicks Off IPL 2026 Preparations

MS Dhoni has officially started his preparations for IPL 2026. The former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain was recently spotted training at the Jharkhand Cricket Association (JCA) stadium. CSK shared a video showing Dhoni batting in the nets.

Wearing his signature yellow pads, Dhoni practiced a mix of defensive shots and strokes. During the session, he also guided and shared tips with local Jharkhand cricketers, offering mentorship alongside his training. You can watch the video here:

A treat, every time he bats 🥳✨
Superfans, you know what time it is 🔜🦁#WhistlePodu
🎥 : Jharkhand cricket association pic.twitter.com/VY6okLqVVC

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) January 26, 2026

Dhoni was retained by CSK ahead of the IPL 2026 auctions. He had a modest 2025 season, scoring only 196 runs in 13 innings at an average of 24.50 and a strike rate of 135.17. The franchise also struggled overall, finishing last in the points table with just four wins.

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