Though the IPL 2025 is still some months away, there have been several rumors regarding some of the league’s greatest names. The player retention policy will play a major role in the preseason mega auction, particularly in relation to the future of MS Dhoni, the iconic former captain of the Chennai Super Kings. The renowned cricketer’s decision to play one more season may be influenced by the new retention regulations.
Amid these rumors, Suresh Raina, a former star of CSK who spent a significant portion of his IPL career playing under Dhoni, has expressed his thoughts and supported Dhoni staying with the team for at least the upcoming season.
Raina’s proposal is based on Dhoni’s outstanding performance in the 2024 Indian Premier League, where his potent batting cameos continued to be a valuable asset for the club. Furthermore, Raina thinks that Ruturaj Gaikwad, who succeeded Dhoni as captain, still needs more time to develop into a true leader and manage the venerable team.
Given how he batted last year, I want MS Dhoni to participate in the IPL in 2025, Raina said to Sports Tak. “Considering the way Ruturaj Gaikwad captained and the comments made following the defeat to RCB, I think he should have another year. But Ruturaj did a fantastic job.
Raina was alluding to the 68th match of the 2024 league stage, which was a must-win for both RCB and CSK in order to advance to the playoffs. The odds were stacked in favour of the Super Kings because the Royal Challengers needed more wins on technicality to advance; but, Faf du Plessis’ team overcame the odds to overcome CSK and go to the playoffs.
The Super Kings had an incredible run under Dhoni’s leadership, winning five IPL titles, which is a tie for the most in the league’s history. With Dhoni’s decision to resign earlier in the year, Gaikwad’s hiring signaled the start of a new chapter for CSK.
But the squad had difficulties in 2024, placing fifth and just missing out on a postseason berth. As the season approaches, there is still talk about how Dhoni’s comeback as a player could change the course of CSK’s success in the 2025 Indian Premier League.
When questioned about his IPL future at an occasion, MS Dhoni remained silent. According to reports, CSK lobbied the IPL governing council to reinstate the provision that permits retiring players to be considered uncapped if it has been more than five years since their last appearance for their country. Kasi Viswanath, the CEO of CSK, refuted making such a request.
“There is a lot of time for it (to decide on IPL future),” Dhoni had said last month.
“We have to see what decision they take on player retention etc. Right now, the ball is not in our court. So, once the rules and regulations get formalised, I will take a call, but it needs to be in the best interest of the team.”
