Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are awaiting confirmation from MS Dhoni regarding his participation in IPL 2025. CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan expressed optimism, stating, “We still have no confirmation from him, though we would like him to continue playing for us. We hope he will confirm before October 31.”
The October 31 deadline requires IPL franchises to submit their list of retained players ahead of the mega auction. Dhoni, who retired from international cricket in August 2020, qualifies as an uncapped player this year under a reinstated IPL rule. The rule allows players retired from international cricket for over five years to be considered uncapped.
If retained as an uncapped player, Dhoni would cost CSK only INR 4 crore from their INR 120 crore auction purse, a cost-effective option given his continued value as a finisher. In the 2024 season, Dhoni scored 161 runs at a blistering strike rate of 220, even after handing over captaincy duties to Ruturaj Gaikwad.
The IPL retention rules allow franchises to keep up to six players, including a maximum of five capped internationals. The league mandates minimum auction purse deductions for retained players, starting from INR 18 crore for the first player. However, franchises may pay players more than the minimum.
With Dhoni’s legendary status and popularity, CSK is almost certain to retain him, pending his confirmation. Dhoni’s decision is eagerly awaited by fans and the franchise as the retention deadline looms.
Updated on 21st October, 2024 by MyFortune11