'MS Dhoni Will Inform Us, We Will Not Interfere': Chennai Super Kings Deny MSD's IPL Retirement Discussions

MS Dhoni will arrive at his own decision whether to extend his playing career for Chennai Super Kings or hang up his boots before the next season gets underway.

However, Dhoni will have to make up his mind in the next few months since BCCI plans to conduct mega auction before IPL 2025 meaning teams can retain only a select few and release a majority of their players.

In that scenario, CSK will have to make the tough call on the players they want to retain since it will impact their budget for the auction as well where teams will end up rebuilding their respective squads.

CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has said so far no discussions have been held on Dhoni’s playing future and the franchise won’t interfere with their former captain’s decision either.

“There were no discussions in the dressing room about it,” Viswanathan told The Indian Express. “We have never asked him about his future and neither has he said anything about it. When he takes a decision, he will inform us, until then we will not interfere.”

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Dhoni’s fitness and BCCI’s rule on retention could play significant roles in the five-time IPL winning captain’s decision though.

His former CSK teammate Ambati Rayudu is positive that Dhoni will return for another season.

“I don’t think this is his last game. I just don’t see him wanting to end on this note,” Rayudu said on Star Sports. “With the impact player role as well, it gives him the opportunity to be able to come in those last few overs and truly make that impact.”

“BCCI better not remove the impact player role because we still want to see MS Dhoni play. So, it’s up to BCCI now. Do we want to see MS Dhoni play or not,” he added.

Matthew Hayde, a former CSK opener, feels otherwise.

“I think this is it. I do believe that this will be the last time that Dhoni will play. Certainly, won’t be the last time that we see Dhoni. I’d be very surprised if he doesn’t mentor or be a part of the family of CSK in an official capacity,” Hayden said.