|
The recent announcement of new retention rules for the upcoming IPL 2025 season has sparked a flurry of discussions about the future of legendary cricketer MS Dhoni. The rule change, which categorizes any Indian player who hasn't played international cricket in the past five years as 'uncapped,' has particularly drawn attention to Dhoni's potential future in the IPL. With his last international appearance in 2019, Dhoni now falls under this 'uncapped' category.
Adding fuel to the fire, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan's recent comments about Dhoni at the IIFA awards have gone viral. During a light-hearted exchange with his longtime friend and filmmaker Karan Johar, Khan quipped about his own and Dhoni's penchant for staying in the game despite pronouncements of retirement. He humorously stated, "Actually, I’m a different kind of legend. Dhoni and I belong to the same league. Even when we say no, we end up playing 10 more IPL seasons." The audience erupted in laughter at Khan's playful jibe, and Vicky Kaushal further added to the amusement by saying, "Retirement is for legends. Kings are forever."
The new rules have presented a unique situation for Dhoni and his long-time team, Chennai Super Kings (CSK). With Dhoni now categorized as an 'uncapped' player, CSK has the opportunity to retain him for a significantly reduced price of Rs 4 crore. This has fueled speculation about whether Dhoni will indeed be part of the CSK squad in the upcoming season. While his future remains uncertain, fans and the cricketing world eagerly await the final decision.
The camaraderie between Shah Rukh Khan and Dhoni, as showcased at the IIFA awards, has further ignited the conversation surrounding Dhoni's future in the IPL. While Khan's statement was made in jest, it highlights the enduring appeal of the legendary cricketer and the anticipation surrounding his potential return to the field. Whether Dhoni decides to continue playing or not, his legacy as a cricketing icon remains firmly established, and his presence continues to captivate fans across the globe.