Former Indian captain and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend MS Dhoni has provided a major update on his cricketing future, indicating that he may continue playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for a few more years. MS Dhoni, who retired from international cricket in August 2020, has remained an iconic figure in the IPL, where he has represented CSK for 15 seasons, excluding the two years the team was banned in 2016 and 2017.
At the age of 43, MS Dhoni finds himself in the twilight of his illustrious career, but his passion for the game remains undiminished. Speaking at a promotional event for Rigi, MS Dhoni said, “I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I am able to play.” This statement has fueled speculation about his participation in future IPL seasons, including the 2025 edition.
Despite having played 264 matches for CSK, MS Dhoni continues to maintain his fitness and commitment to the sport, focusing on preparation for the IPL. He revealed his unique training regime, designed to keep him fit throughout the year, allowing him to perform during the two-and-a-half-month IPL window. “I have to keep myself fit for nine months so that I can play two and a half months of IPL. I have kept it very simple. I will train for 15, 20, 25 days, then take off for 15-20 days, so it really helps me be in the groove,” MS Dhoni explained.
MS Dhoni acknowledged the challenges of playing professional cricket at his age, noting how it differs from the enjoyment of playing the game in his childhood. “When you play professional sport, it becomes difficult to enjoy cricket, just like a game. That’s what I want to do… It’s not easy. The emotions keep coming, the commitments are there. I want to enjoy the game for the next few years,” MS Dhoni added.
Although MS Dhoni stepped down as CSK captain in 2022, briefly handing the reins to Ravindra Jadeja, he resumed leadership midway through the season after the team struggled. Last year, MS Dhoni passed the captaincy baton to Ruturaj Gaikwad, but the five-time champions fell short of securing a playoff spot.
Under the new IPL retention rules, CSK has the opportunity to retain MS Dhoni for ₹4 crore, keeping him in the squad for future seasons. While nothing is confirmed yet, MS Dhoni’s remarks suggest that fans may see the legendary wicketkeeper-batsman don the CSK colors for a few more years, keeping the hope of an IPL 2025 appearance alive.
