Chennai Super Kings legend MS Dhoni shuts down speculation about his IPL future, declaring lifelong loyalty to the franchise ahead of their opening clash against Mumbai Indians.
March 23, 2025: Chennai — The IPL 2025 season has barely begun, and MS Dhoni has already delivered a trademark six — this time off the field. Addressing long-standing speculation around his IPL retirement, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) icon made it crystal clear: he’s not done yet.
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“I can play for as long as I want for CSK. That’s my franchise. Even if I’m in a wheelchair, they’ll drag me,” Dhoni said in a light-hearted yet powerful statement during a chat on JioHotstar ahead of CSK’s season opener against Mumbai Indians.
Dhoni, who retired from international cricket in 2020, remains the soul of CSK. At 43, he continues to be a symbol of fitness, leadership, and calm under pressure. His statement has now quashed any retirement chatter — at least for this season.
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MS Dhoni said "I can play for as long as I want for CSK – That is my franchise. Even if I am in a wheelchair, they will drag me". [Big smile – JioHotstar] pic.twitter.com/8CaDdRAS9p
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) March 23, 2025
👑 Ruturaj Gaikwad: “What Dhoni does at 43 is inspiring”
Newly-appointed CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad praised Dhoni’s commitment and preparation, saying the legend is striking the ball better than some of the younger players.
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“At 43, what he’s doing is remarkable. A lot of new players struggle to hit like him. It’s truly inspiring,” said Gaikwad.
He also revealed Dhoni’s focused approach in training: “He trains with clarity, aiming to perfect his swing and hit sixes. There’s a sharpness to his preparation that keeps him match-ready.”
📍 What’s Next for Dhoni?
Dhoni is expected to play a finishing role for CSK again this season, coming in at No. 7 or No. 8. With the crowd at Chepauk likely to roar every time he walks in, the former India captain’s presence remains as magnetic as ever.
“Even Sachin Tendulkar is batting great at 50. I think there are still many years to go for Dhoni,” Gaikwad added.
With CSK aiming to bounce back after narrowly missing playoffs last season, all eyes will be on their talismanic mentor as the new season unfolds.
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