CSK head coach Stephen Fleming acknowledged that Dhoni played through constant pain this season. Despite the discomfort, his dedication was evident as he participated in all 14 games.
MS Dhoni, the iconic former Indian captain and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper, has left fans and cricket pundits guessing about his future in the IPL. With the 2024 season concluded and CSK failing to qualify for the playoffs, speculation surrounding Dhoni’s retirement has reached a fever pitch.
CSK officials themselves are unsure. “He has not told us anything,” revealed franchise CEO Kasi Viswanathan. Dhoni’s decision-making autonomy is well-known, leaving the question of whether he’ll grace the IPL stage in the yellow jersey next year unanswered.
The BCCI’s upcoming policy announcement regarding player retention throws another wrinkle into the mix. Dhoni and CSK have a tight deadline to make a call before the official announcement. While there’s some time, it’s not a luxury they can afford for long.
Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni met and shook hands in the dressing room.
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 20, 2024
MS told Virat - "you need to do the Final and need to win it as well. Good luck for it". pic.twitter.com/ZT28xSdNrN
Dhoni remained silent on his future after the crucial match against Royal Challengers Bangalore. He swiftly departed for Ranchi, leaving fans and management in suspense. Whispers suggest a potential one-on-one chat with N Srinivasan, the CSK owner, might occur soon. Fitness remains a significant factor in Dhoni’s decision.
CSK members, like head coach Stephen Fleming, acknowledge that Dhoni played through constant pain this season. Despite the discomfort, his dedication was evident as he participated in all 14 games and batted in various positions, scoring a commendable 161 runs at an impressive average. However, Dhoni’s value extends far beyond mere statistics for CSK and the IPL.
Industry insiders hint at Srinivasan’s plans for the franchise, possibly involving a future separation of CSK from India Cements, the current owner. This scenario could lead to a shift in Dhoni’s role. If he chooses to step away from playing, he could well transition into a mentor’s role.
Former CSK player Matthew Hayden, familiar with the franchise’s management, shared his thoughts: “This will likely be the last time we see MS Dhoni play. However, I wouldn’t be surprised if he remains involved with CSK in an official capacity, perhaps as a mentor.”
On the other hand, Ambati Rayudu, another CSK player close to the management, believes Dhoni has more to offer: “I don’t think this is his last game. He wouldn’t want to end on this note.”
CSK decision-makers are keen to see Dhoni continue. “The way he batted, he can surely go on,” stated Viswanathan.Ultimately, the call rests with Dhoni.
Retention policies will also play a crucial role. If the BCCI allows only four retentions with a maximum of three Indians,CSK’s choices could be Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ravindra Jadeja, with Jadeja’s return seemingly confirmed after resolving past issues. The third Indian slot could go to Dhoni, if he agrees, or potentially Shivam Dube or a foreign player. Sri Lankan slinger Matheesha Pathirana, however, is reportedly secured for the future.
Determining the number of retentions and the Right To Match (RTM) options is another point of contention. The BCCI will discuss this with team owners before finalizing the policy. Opinions among franchises are divided, with some favoring as many as eight retentions and others advocating for none.
another “Definitely Not” loading..
— ` (@WorshipDhoni) May 20, 2024
pic.twitter.com/vOScwNf8zE
Meanwhile, former Indian batsman Robin Uthappa believes Dhoni will return stronger next year. He highlights Dhoni’s resilience, suggesting he wouldn’t accept this setback as the end. Uthappa also sheds light on Dhoni’s niggling injury throughout the season, hinting at a potentially fitter Dhoni next year.
Similar sentiments are echoed by former Australian cricketer Shane Watson, Dhoni’s ex-teammate. Watson urges Dhoni to continue for at least one or two more years, emphasizing his valuable role even with shorter cameos.
Dhoni’s IPL future may be uncertain, but his legacy as a legendary captain and finisher remains unchallenged. Whether he dons the yellow jersey again or transitions into a mentoring role, his impact on CSK and the IPL is undeniable. Fans eagerly await his decision, hoping to see "Thala” Dhoni grace the cricket field for at least one more season.
 Leander Paes Turns 51 – Recalling the Indian Tennis Legend’s Iconic Achievements.webp)
 Happy Birthday, Shane Watson -- A Deep Dive into Five Iconic Innings.webp)
 A Record 498 for England vs. the Netherlands.webp)
 Happy B’day, Shane Watson – Few of Top Exploits on All International Fronts.webp)
