MS Dhoni's possible CSK status revealed

Since the end of the IPL 2024, cricket fans are desperate to know the future of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend MS Dhoni. While the retention deadline is less than a week, fans can’t wait for Dhoni’s IPL future.

The 43-year-old wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni now plays only the IPL. So, his numerous fans are waiting to hear his decision, and we know what his fans want to hear. 

Watch: "I know about it. But I don't know the reason behind it" - MS Dhoni on his viral meme

When he is ready, what else (do) we want: CSK CEO

Cricbuzz has brought a report on it as Dhoni is most likely to play in the IPL 2025.

On Saturday, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan told Cricbuzz, "When he is ready, what else (do) we want? We are happy." 

In another TOI report, the former Indian captain hinted at continuing his IPL career. According to the TOI report, Dhoni said, "I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I am able to play. When you play cricket like a professional sport, it becomes difficult to enjoy it just like a game. That's what I want to do. It's not easy.

"The emotions keep coming, the commitments are there. I want to enjoy the game for the next few years. I have to keep myself fit for nine months, so that I can play two and a half months of IPL. You need to plan it out, but at the same time chill a bit."

However, the CSK team management still wants to talk with Dhoni directly before announcing this good news. While October 31 is the deadline for the IPL teams’ retention, CSK officials are likely to talk with Dhoni by October 28.

Dhoni will talk with CSK owner N Srinivasan soon. 

Dhoni can be retained by the CSK as an uncapped player due to the return of the old rule. However, in this case, Dhoni’s highest retention value can be only INR 4 crore. 

Retention favourites for CSK

Talking about CSK’s retention, Ravindra Jadeja, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Matheesha Pathiran are the top favourite names. Shivam Dube and Devon Conway can also be considered for retention along with uncapped Sameer Rizvi. 

Under Dhoni’s leadership, CSK won five IPL trophies and two now-defunct Champions League T20 titles. After winning the IPL 2023 trophy, Dhoni stepped down from the captaincy role. 

Ruturaj Gaikwad led the CSK team in the IPL 2024, where they finished in fifth place as they just failed to reach the playoffs.