Even as speculations are rife about MS Dhoni's international return, former India fast bowler and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) bowling Lakshmipathy Balaji said the World Cup-winner is someone who doesn't look too much into the future and likes taking things one moment at a time.

Lakshmipathy Balaji, speaking to indiatoday.in, said MS Dhoni prepared for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 with the same intensity that he has had over the years.

IPL 2020 has been suspended until April 15 and uncertainty surrounds the 13th edition of the cash-rich league due to the growing concerns over the Covid-19 pandemic.

The novel coronavirus outbreak has, among other things, severely affected the global sporting calendar. The Tokyo Games have been postponed in an unprecedented decision, major tournaments across the globe have either been cancelled or pushed indefinitely.

While IPL 2020 was seen as a potential comeback vehicle for MS Dhoni who has not played competitive cricket since the 2019 World Cup, uncertainty over the tournament means uncertainty over his impending return.

"MS Dhoni was looking good, fit. He focussed on training just like he always does and was as normal as he has always been. He trained like the way he did last year or 2 years ago. There is nothing that changes when it comes to his preparation. His routine, his mindset, everything is the same," Lakshmipathy Balaji told indiatoday.in.

"Dhoni was focussed on getting ready for the IPL. He is that kind of a person who always takes it one moment at a time."

Less than three weeks to go and here's something from less than two weeks ago to keep you going. #Thala @msdhoni #WhistlePodu ???? pic.twitter.com/FC5m7IC6yM March 26, 2020

The Indian team management, including head coach Ravi Shastri, and the selectors had said they will wait and watch until IPL 2020 to take a call on MS Dhoni's return.

'We ticked all the boxes'

Dhoni did not feature in India's plans in the home season and the tour of New Zealand but the former India captain began training in the lead up to IPL 2020. After taking to the nets at Ranchi, Dhoni landed in Chennai in the 1st week of March and trained extensively with a few of his CSK teammates, including Suresh Raina and Ambati Rayudu.

Shedding light on the CSK training camp that was called off after the Covid-19 pandemic, L Balaji said the players ticked all the boxes when it came to preparation in the lead up to IPL 2020.

"We had 2 wonderful camps. We had a conditioning camp in February. And another in March where close to 10 players were there. We did good work, focussed on fitness drills, specific techniques. We ticked all the boxes.

"The players were looking forward to the season. We had a very good camp but unfortunately it had to be paused or halted. It was necessary to do this," Balaji said.