MS Dhoni drops hint on CSK future ahead of IPL 2025 retentions: Just want to enjoy

Former India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni has hinted at a possible return for IPL 2025, stating he wants to enjoy “whatever last few years of cricket” he can, amid ongoing speculation about his future with CSK.

Questions surrounding Dhoni’s plans began when he handed the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad last season and started batting lower in the order. As the October 31 deadline for franchise retention lists approaches ahead of the mega auction, Dhoni’s position is still a topic of interest. With a reintroduced rule allowing players who have retired from international cricket for five years to be classified as uncapped, CSK may choose to retain Dhoni under this new provision.

Dhoni, now 43, handed over the CSK captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad last season and adopted a new batting role, often coming in lower in the order. This change led to discussions about his future as he focused on mentoring younger players. Recently, Dhoni shared his current mindset at a promotional event in Goa, stating, “I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I’m able to play. Like how during our childhood, we used to go out and play at 4 pm, just enjoying the game.”

With franchise player retention lists due by October 31 for the upcoming mega auction, Dhoni’s future in the squad is a key focus. A rule reintroduced this year allows players who retired from international cricket more than five years ago to be classified as uncapped. This may allow CSK to retain Dhoni in a strategic way that benefits both the team and its captain.

CSK’s CEO Kasi Viswanathan expressed hope that Dhoni would return for the next season. The former skipper’s adjusted role has been a deliberate decision, explained Dhoni, who wanted to give younger players like Ravindra Jadeja and Shivam Dube the opportunity to prove themselves ahead of the T20 World Cup.

“My thinking was simple, if others are doing their job well, why do I need to come up the order?” Dhoni said, explaining his position change last season. “We have to give people fighting for a spot a chance.”

Dhoni’s enduring influence, both as a player and a mentor, has helped shape CSK’s success over the years. His potential return would provide an opportunity for fans to see the legendary cricketer on the field once more, not just as a leader but as someone focused on enjoying the essence of the game in his final innings.