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The 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) retentions have concluded, with all 10 teams announcing their decisions on player retention and release ahead of the upcoming mega auction scheduled for late November. Among the most anticipated announcements was the future of the legendary MS Dhoni, who has been a cornerstone of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for many years. The news was met with excitement as CSK confirmed their retention of the legendary wicketkeeper-batter, ensuring Dhoni will continue captivating fans across India.
However, the retention price of Dhoni has raised eyebrows, as he will be playing for a mere Rs 4 crore, the lowest he has ever earned in the IPL. This surprising price tag stems from a recent rule change implemented by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that classifies players who have not participated in international cricket for five years or more as uncapped. As Dhoni last represented India in the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup, he now falls under this new uncapped player category.
The minimum retention price for uncapped players is set at Rs 4 crore, effectively limiting Dhoni's earnings for IPL 2025. Despite this relatively low price, Dhoni's inclusion in the CSK squad is considered a bargain by many fans, given his immense experience and leadership skills. The former CSK captain will undoubtedly play a crucial role in mentoring younger players and guiding the team toward another successful season.
The retention and release list for CSK reveals a clear strategy for the upcoming season, with a strong focus on maintaining a core group of proven performers while also exploring new talent. Ruturaj Gaikwad, Matheesha Pathirana, Shivam Dube, and Ravindra Jadeja join Dhoni as retained players, indicating the team's faith in their ability to contribute significantly to the team's performance. Meanwhile, the release of several players, including Moeen Ali, Deepak Chahar, and Tushar Deshpande, highlights the team's willingness to explore fresh faces and introduce new dynamics to the squad.
The IPL 2025 mega auction promises to be a captivating event, with teams vying for the best available talent in the market. The retention decisions made by CSK and other franchises have set the stage for an exciting and competitive season, with fans eager to witness the impact of both established players and promising newcomers. As the IPL season draws closer, the anticipation surrounding Dhoni's contribution to CSK's success remains high, despite his reduced remuneration, his influence on the team's performance and his unwavering commitment to the game continue to inspire generations of fans.
The decision to retain Dhoni for just Rs 4 crore reflects the changing landscape of the IPL, where age and experience are no longer the sole determinants of value. However, Dhoni's legacy transcends monetary value, as he remains an iconic figure in Indian cricket, His commitment to the sport and his ability to mentor young talent make him a valuable asset to CSK, It remains to be seen how his role will evolve within the team and what impact he will have on the upcoming season, but one thing is certain: Dhoni's presence will continue to captivate audiences and add another layer of intrigue to the 2025 IPL season.
Source: EXPLAINED: How MS Dhoni Was Retained For Only Rs 4 Crore By Chennai Super Kings