MS Dhoni's IPL Future in Question: CSK CEO Updates on Retention Plans

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has shared insights regarding MS Dhoni’s potential retention for the IPL 2025 season. With the deadline for retaining players set for October 31, 2024, fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting Dhoni’s decision.

Viswanathan emphasized CSK’s desire for Dhoni to play at least one more season. Unlike previous years, where Dhoni made clear his intentions to return, he has been notably reserved this time, suggesting that IPL 2024 might be his last. However, CSK’s inability to reach the playoffs could have influenced Dhoni’s outlook on his future.

“He said, ‘I will tell you before October 31.’ We hope that he will play,” Viswanathan noted, reflecting the team’s optimism.

The return of the uncapped player rule, which allows teams to retain players who haven’t played international cricket in the last five years at a cost of Rs 4 crore, has sparked speculation. Dhoni, who last played for India in the 2019 World Cup, could potentially be retained under this rule.

CSK aims to keep its core intact for IPL 2025, with the IPL organizers allowing teams to retain a maximum of six players—five capped and two uncapped—before the mega auction. This flexibility may provide CSK with options to secure key players while maintaining a balanced squad.

Last season, despite dealing with a knee issue, Dhoni played all 14 matches for CSK, scoring 161 runs at a strike rate of 220. In the 2023 season, he led the Super Kings to their fifth title, contributing 104 runs with a striking rate of 182.46.

As Dhoni weighs his options, he has consistently expressed that his decision will depend on the auction and retention rules, prioritizing the team’s future. Nevertheless, his popularity and impact make him one of the most coveted players in the league, leaving fans hopeful for another season with the legendary cricketer.

With the retention deadline approaching, all eyes will be on MS Dhoni’s announcement. Whether he chooses to continue his illustrious IPL career or step back, his legacy within CSK and the league remains firmly established.