At 43, MS Dhoni continues to keep the cricketing world guessing. On Sunday (May 25), the legendary former India skipper clarified that he is not retiring just yet, following Chennai Super Kings’ emphatic win over Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. For weeks, speculation swirled around Dhoni’s future, with many believing this IPL season would be his last.
After stepping down as CSK captain last season, fans expected the veteran to hang up his boots. Yet, much to their delight, he returned for IPL 2025, albeit with growing concerns about his fitness and workload.
WATCH – MS Dhoni Loses Cool at Fielders During CSK vs GT Clash in Ahmedabad
Before the match against the table-toppers, Dhoni added fuel to the fire when he candidly acknowledged how demanding it’s become to maintain his body at this stage of his career. The buzz was that a farewell announcement was imminent. But once again, Dhoni, in typical fashion, defied expectations.
Speaking after the game, he revealed he’s not made any concrete decision yet. “It depends. I have 4-5 months to decide, there’s no hurry. Need to keep the body fit. You have to be at your best,” Dhoni said. In his signature philosophical tone, he added, “If cricketers start retiring for their performance, some of them will retire at 22. Will go back to Ranchi, enjoy a few bike rides. I’m not saying I’m done, not saying I’m coming back. I have the luxury of timing. Will think about it and then decide.”
WATCH – MS Dhoni Sets the Trap: Anshul Kamboj Removes Shubman Gill After Clever Field Change
The moment Dhoni made this statement, social media erupted. Fans flooded timelines with relief, admiration, and renewed hope that they’ll see their beloved ‘Thala’ don the yellow jersey again.
Dhoni may be in the twilight of his career, but if Sunday proved anything, it’s that he’s still very much the heartbeat of the Chennai Super Kings and Indian cricket fandom alike.
MS Dhoni un-declared his IPL retirement!!
Saved millions heart broken for Dhoni fans. ♥️🙏#MSDhoni #CSKvsGT
— curious (@insightcrate) May 25, 2025
I feel Dhoni is waiting for that trade to materialise. If it indeed does, he will retire.
Irrespective whether that trade happens or not, he has confirmed Ruturaj Gaikwad will be the captain for 2026.
Expect more than a couple of changes in the support staff of #csk #IPL2025— Kaushik Arunagiri (@ka_kaushik) May 25, 2025
He must retire
MS Dhoni did nothing this season— Rohit 🇮🇳 (@RohitGedam29) May 25, 2025
Dhoni kabhi retire nahi karega. Ranchi me kuch to aisa ugaa raha hai jisse abhi tak khelne ka josh bana hua hai
— Rohit anand (@rohit_dr_infi) May 25, 2025
Csk fans need to realise
Notice ms dhoni speech
He is not coming back 💯Its better if he gets that farewell today rather than in between through social media
His back is showing him thats why doubt about fitness
— Lalaland (@MadMax831367900) May 25, 2025
Csk fans need to realise
Notice ms dhoni speech
He is not coming back 💯Its better if he gets that farewell today rather than in between through social media
His back is showing him thats why doubt about fitness
— Lalaland (@MadMax831367900) May 25, 2025
Why would anyone want Dhoni back for another season ? He’s been a disaster. https://t.co/abWScbkvFU
— Praveen | ప్రవీణ్ (@dexterslab) May 25, 2025
Dear MS Dhoni, don’t even think about retiring. You are known for your comebacks.
CSK already has its squad for 2026, so you can go out on a high note next season, and you truly deserve it. pic.twitter.com/eJfwkWzqRc
— Selfless⁴⁵ (@SelflessCricket) May 25, 2025
“If cricketers start retiring based on their performances then a few of them would retire by 22” – MS Dhoni 🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/JgNcKCXDtk
— 🎰 (@StanMSD) May 25, 2025
DO NOT LEAVE, I BEG @msdhoni. there ain’t much to life, am a disturbed idiot. do not rob me of my tailing happiness. STAY!
— Neeche Se Topper (@NeecheSeTopper) May 25, 2025
