NEW DELHI: In a development that is sure to excite millions of fans, former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni has hinted that he is not yet ready to walk away from the game, sparking speculation about his participation in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL).
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 the next edition of the tournament.
“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.”The future of the 43-year-old Chennai Super Kings legend has been a hot topic as the IPL 2025 mega auction approaches. 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.
Dhoni also shed light on his fitness regimen, which has been critical in keeping him match-ready for IPL.
“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.”
With Dhoni’s future tied to his fitness and passion for the game, fans and experts alike are now eagerly awaiting CSK’s decision on retaining their beloved “Thala” for the upcoming season. Should Dhoni continue, it will mark yet another chapter in his extraordinary IPL legacy.
🔴 LIVE: India vs New Zealand: Another embarrassing show by India batters, series in danger
