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The cricketing world eagerly awaits the decision of MS Dhoni, the legendary former captain of the Indian cricket team and the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), regarding his participation in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Dhoni is scheduled to meet with the CSK owners in mid-October, where he is expected to finalize his decision on whether he will play in IPL 2025. While Dhoni remains tight-lipped about his plans, his decision will be crucial for CSK's strategy going into the mega auction.
Dhoni's legacy with CSK is deeply intertwined with the team's success. He has led the franchise to five IPL titles, cementing his status as a legendary figure in the IPL. With his future in the league hanging in the balance, CSK fans and cricket pundits alike are on the edge of their seats awaiting his announcement. The meeting with the CSK owners is anticipated to be a pivotal moment in determining Dhoni's role, if any, in the upcoming season.
Adding another layer of complexity to the situation is a new rule implemented by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). This rule allows players who haven't represented India for more than five years to be classified as 'uncapped' players. This change directly affects Dhoni, who last played for India in 2019. As a result, CSK could potentially retain Dhoni as an uncapped player for a base price of Rs 4 crore. This rule change has sparked debate, with some arguing that it provides Dhoni with an opportunity to continue playing in the IPL.
Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif publicly backed the rule change, suggesting that it paves the way for Dhoni to continue playing in the IPL. Kaif, speaking on Star Sports, emphasized Dhoni's enduring impact on the game, stating that Dhoni is a big match-winner and leader for CSK. Kaif also pointed out that the financial aspect isn't a concern for Dhoni, highlighting that Dhoni himself has previously said he doesn't need the money. Even if retained for Rs 4 crore, it wouldn't matter to him.
The IPL's new retention rules allow teams to keep up to six players before the 2025 auction, giving CSK the opportunity to secure their iconic leader. With an increased auction purse of Rs 120 crore, this change gives teams like CSK greater flexibility in crafting their squad for the next IPL cycle. The meeting between Dhoni and the CSK owners in mid-October will not only shape Dhoni's future but also significantly impact the trajectory of CSK in the upcoming IPL season.
Source: MS Dhoni to meet CSK owners ahead of IPL mega auction