As the IPL 2025 mega auction draws near, all eyes are on the enigmatic MS Dhoni and his uncertain future with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). At 43, Dhoni remains a pivotal span in the IPL landscape, his legacy etched with five titles that have elevated CSK alongside Mumbai Indians as the league's most decorated teams.
For the first time since the 2022 season, the IPL 2025 will include a mega auction. The teams have till October 31 to make their final roster of players who will be kept and released prior to the auction. With the BCCI reintroducing the special uncapped player policy, all eyes will be on the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and if they will keep MS Dhoni. Still unclear, though, is whether or not this would actually occur. It appears that some clarification may eventually arrive.
CSK officials will meet with MS Dhoni.
Sports Tak reports that MS Dhoni would meet with CSK authorities on October 29 or 30, one or two days before to the deadline of October 31. According to those familiar with the situation, CSK requested to see Dhoni on the 28th, but the five-time IPL champion stated that he was unavailable on that day. The franchise won't finalize their retentions until they have met Dhoni.
How Just Rs 4 Crore Can Get You MS Dhoni
An Indian player who has been retired for more than four years may be kept as an uncapped player, according to an ancient provision reinstated by the BCCI. Dhoni qualifies as an uncapped player for CSK because he last played for his country in the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final against New Zealand. As a result, he may be kept for a relatively cheap sum of Rs 4 crore, which would be the lowest wage he has ever received in his IPL career.
Who Is CSK Keeping
The Times of India reports that MS Dhoni would be one of five players retained by the Chennai Super Kings. Along with veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadej, Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana, and Shivam Duve, they will keep their skipper, Ruturaj Gaikwad.
A Transitional Season
Dhoni gave over his leadership to Ruturaj Gaikwad in the 2024 Indian Premier League, although he continued to have an impact on and off the field. Despite losing out on the playoffs, he led the club through a difficult season with a solid fifth-place finish, demonstrating his strategic ability and composed demeanor.
With an outstanding batting average of 73 and 161 runs scored in 14 games, Dhoni's skill remained fearsome. His continuing relevance to the CSK lineup was highlighted by his ability to lead innings with 13 sixes and 14 fours.
Unrestricted and Unabated
The story of Dhoni has become more intriguing due to recent events. Dhoni's future may take an unexpected turn with the reinstatement of the IPL rule that permits former internationals to remain uncapped players. With this regulatory change, CSK has a tactical edge and might be able to keep Dhoni for just Rs 4 crore out of their Rs 120 crore budget.
The Final Moment Before the Decision Day
Despite these possibilities, Dhoni's lack of response on his availability has caused anxiety among both team executives and fans. According to reports, he will meet with CSK management just before the player retention deadline on October 31. Whether Dhoni continues his remarkable IPL career or retires from active participation might be decided by this crucial encounter.
Looking Ahead
As the IPL 2025 super auction draws near, CSK CEO Viswanathan is still hopeful that Dhoni would make a comeback. Viswanathan emphasized Dhoni's importance as a player and as a pillar of CSK's identity, expressing hope for a favorable judgment prior to the retention deadline.
FAQs'
Is Dhoni play IPL 2025?
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan is optimistic that MS Dhoni would play in the future season, although he has not yet guaranteed his availability for the 2025 Indian Premier League. "We would like him to continue playing for us, but we have not received any confirmation from him yet," Viswanathan told ESPNcricinfo.
Who will retain CSK in 2025?
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan is optimistic that MS Dhoni would play in the future season, although he has not yet guaranteed his availability for the 2025 Indian Premier League. "We would like him to continue playing for us, but we have not received any confirmation from him yet," Viswanathan told ESPNcricinfo.
