The 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season has become the talk of the cricketing world, even months before the tournament begins. A major source of this speculation is the upcoming IPL retention rules, which are expected to be finalized before the 2025 mega auction. These rules could reshape how franchises build their teams for the next season, and one player whose future has generated immense interest is none other than Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend MS Dhoni.
As the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) continues to discuss the new rules, fans and franchises alike are eagerly awaiting an official announcement. However, according to various media reports, there seems to be no agreement yet on the number of retentions that will be allowed ahead of the 2025 season. Despite this uncertainty, one thing remains clear—CSK is determined to keep Dhoni in their squad, regardless of any rule changes.
CSK’s Loyalty to Dhoni
Chennai Super Kings’ relationship with MS Dhoni is one of the most enduring and successful partnerships in IPL history. Since the inaugural IPL auction in 2008, Dhoni has been the face of the CSK franchise, leading them to five IPL titles—most recently in 2023. His tactical genius, calm demeanor under pressure, and ability to lead from the front have made him a beloved figure not only in Chennai but also among cricket fans worldwide.
With Dhoni stepping down from the captaincy after the 2024 IPL season, Ruturaj Gaikwad has taken over the leadership mantle. Despite the change in captaincy, Dhoni’s influence remains strong within the team. His presence in the dressing room, his experience, and his role as a mentor are irreplaceable for CSK. Even though Dhoni is no longer captain, CSK’s commitment to him is unwavering.
According to Cricbuzz, no matter how many players franchises are allowed to retain, CSK is planning to retain Dhoni for the 2025 season. This decision reflects the franchise’s deep respect and trust in Dhoni, who has been a part of their setup for over 15 years.
Rumors of Dhoni Being ‘Uncapped’
Amid the discussions about retention rules, rumors have surfaced that BCCI might introduce a rule placing certain veteran players like Dhoni in the ‘uncapped’ category. Typically, the uncapped category is reserved for younger, less experienced players who have not yet played for the national team. However, in this scenario, placing Dhoni in this category could allow CSK to retain him at a reduced cost, freeing up more funds for the auction.
While these rumors remain unconfirmed, Cricbuzz reports that CSK is unperturbed by any such potential rule changes. Regardless of whether Dhoni is classified as capped or uncapped, the franchise is ready to retain their iconic wicketkeeper-batter.
Dhoni’s Legacy at CSK
Dhoni’s journey with CSK has been nothing short of legendary. He was one of the marquee players in the first-ever IPL auction, and his tenure with the team has seen numerous highs, including five IPL championships. Under his leadership, CSK has consistently been one of the most successful franchises in IPL history.
More than just a captain, Dhoni has been the soul of CSK. His calmness under pressure, his sharp decision-making, and his ability to inspire his teammates have been key to CSK’s success. Even as Dhoni transitioned from captain to mentor in 2024, his leadership qualities continue to shine through. He remains one of the most respected players in the IPL, both on and off the field.
Dhoni’s influence extends far beyond his statistics. His ability to nurture young talent, as seen with players like Gaikwad, has been invaluable for CSK’s long-term success. His tactical acumen, especially in pressure situations, has been a guiding force for the team, making him an irreplaceable part of CSK’s core.