MS Dhoni has officially confirmed his participation in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, bringing immense relief to fans and the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise. The announcement was made during a recent promotional event, where Dhoni expressed his desire to enjoy the final years of his cricketing career.
“I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I am able to play,” he was quoted as saying to TOI.
“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.”
CSK’s retention strategy
CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan echoed Dhoni’s sentiments while speaking to Cricbuzz.“When he is ready, what else we want? We are happy,” he said.
Also IPL 2025: 6 players Chennai Super Kings (CSK) can retain ahead of mega auction
This announcement comes as CSK prepares for the mega auction, with Dhoni expected to be retained as an uncapped player, which will cost the franchise only INR 4 crore due to a revived rule by the IPL Governing Council.
With the deadline for player retention approaching on October 31, CSK are now focused on finalizing their strategy. The franchise plans to retain key players including star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and newly appointed captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana is also likely to be retained, with discussions ongoing regarding other players.
Dhoni’s decision not only reassures CSK fans but also allows the franchise to solidify its plans for the upcoming auction. The Ranchi-lad is expected to have further discussions with CSK owner N Srinivasan in the coming days to finalize the retention list before returning home from Goa.
Also READ: IPL 2025 auction – Is Rachin Ravindra moving to RCB from CSK?
