Kolkata : Former India and current Chennai Super Kings legend Mahendra Singh Dhoni has dropped a massive hint over his IPL 2025 participation.
Speaking at a promotional event for Rigi on Friday, Dhoni revealed his desire to enjoy “the last few years of cricket” – a clear indication that he could feature in IPL 2025.
“I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I am able to play,” Dhoni stated. “In our childhood, we used to go out to play at 4pm and enjoy the game. But when you play professional sport, it becomes difficult to enjoy cricket, just like a game. That’s what I want to do.”
Not only did Dhoni guide India to 3 ICC Trophies victory but also CSK to 5 IPL titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023).
Dhoni’s participation of IPL 2025 is a hot topic over the internet and among Cricket lovers, especially when after last year speculations were drawn regarding his retirement from professional Cricket although no confirmation from him.
Dhoni handed over the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of IPL 2024 and played a reduced role with the bat, sparking questions about his retirement.
However, Dhoni’s recent comments suggest that he plans to stay involved with cricket, albeit in a more relaxed capacity.CSK has the option to retain Dhoni as an uncapped player for Rs 4 crore under a revised retention rule that was reintroduced after being scrapped in 2021. This could allow Dhoni to continue playing for the franchise while easing some of the pressures of being a key player.
Shedding light on keeping himself fit for IPL, Dhoni said, “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, you know, chill a bit,” he said. His routine includes 15 to 25 days of training, followed by periods of rest, a balance that helps him stay in “the groove” while enjoying his diet and life off the field.Dhoni’s connection with the game remains strong, even when he’s not actively playing.
Reflecting on how his emotions as a spectator differ from his time as a player, he said, “When I was playing, I used to watch less, but now that I’m not playing international cricket, every time there’s a game going on, I watch keenly. As a spectator, my heart rate goes up. On the field, my heart rate is more controlled, but watching as a fan, it shoots up.”
Dhoni showed sparks of his old self in IPL 2025 with the Bat and excited his fans. His inclusion in CSK set up is beneficial for both grooming youngsters as well as strengthening their Batting unit. However, official statements and confirmations from CSK management await.
