Speculation over former Indian captain MS Dhoni's potential retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) has intensified after Chennai Super Kings' loss to Delhi Capitals on Saturday.
At 43, Dhoni has been at the center of retirement rumors for several years, but this season’s form, especially with the bat, has led many to believe this might be his final year as a player for CSK.
Speaking on Raj Shamani’s podcast, Dhoni clarified his stance on the subject, putting an end to the growing rumors. “I am still playing the IPL, one year at a time. I am 43, by the end of this IPL season, I will be 44 in July. So I have 10 months to decide whether I want to play one more year and it’s not me deciding; it’s my body, whether you can play or not,” Dhoni explained.
Despite struggles with the bat this season, Dhoni’s wicket-keeping abilities and fitness remain sharp, and his mind remains as focused as ever. However, with just 30 runs off 26 balls in the recent loss to Delhi, CSK's reliance on his batting has become a concern.
Dhoni's current performance has sparked mixed reactions. Head coach Stephen Fleming, when asked about the situation, said: “I have no idea. I'm just enjoying working with him still. He is still going strong. I don't even ask [about his future] these days.”
Former cricketer Manoj Tiwari, in his commentary for Cricbuzz, suggested that Dhoni's retirement should have come right after his 2023 IPL triumph. “The trust he built in the hearts of fans, especially Chennai fans, seems to be fading,” he said.
Meanwhile, commentator Sanjay Manjrekar noted that Dhoni's value to CSK goes beyond cricket. “Dhoni’s presence in the team is more for brand value than actual cricketing value. CSK is not relying on his batting contributions; they are expecting the other players to do the job. That said, his wicket-keeping remains top-notch,” Manjrekar stated.
With only two points from four matches, CSK must quickly regroup as they face Punjab Kings on April 8, 2025, to turn their season around.
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