MS Dhoni ends retirement gossips: "This Is My Franchise"

MS Dhoni, one of cricket’s greatest players, will continue to play for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as the IPL 2025 season kicks off. Despite retiring from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni remains a key figure for CSK. As the team gears up to face Mumbai Indians in the season opener, the question of Dhoni’s IPL future has resurfaced. In a candid interview ahead of the match, Dhoni made it clear that his commitment to CSK is unwavering.

“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, putting an end to retirement speculation.

CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad praised Dhoni for his incredible ability to perform at the age of 43. “His contribution at 43 is remarkable,” Gaikwad said, adding that Dhoni’s performance continues to inspire the team, particularly his ability to strike the ball effectively. Gaikwad also hopes Dhoni will deliver key knocks this season.

As per the usual setup in recent seasons, Dhoni is expected to bat in the lower order for CSK, possibly at No. 7 or No. 8. Gaikwad elaborated on Dhoni’s focused training regimen, which emphasizes hitting sixes and maintaining peak fitness. “Even at 50, Sachin Tendulkar still bats brilliantly, and I believe Dhoni can continue for several more years,” Gaikwad remarked.