Charismatic captain of CSK, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, led the team until the eve of IPL 2024, when he handed over the reins to Ruturaj Gaikwad. CSK had a poor season and failed to make it to the playoffs. However, Dhoni’s star power ensured that people continued flocking to stadiums across the country to catch a glimpse of the legendary cricketer.
This season also, many speculations are going around about Dhoni’s availability for the upcoming season. Even the veteran cricketer himself has given some inputs on what his plans could be. Traditionally, CSK has been very strong at auctions and ensures a balance in the team with the help of retainments of star players and the RTM option.
For the upcoming 2025 season, CSK has a strong lineup, from which four-player retention would definitely be a challenge. MS Dhoni now wants the retention rules revised so that he can carry on without playing with the team and disrupting its chemistry.
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There is a lot of time for it. We have to see what decision they take on player retention, etc. Right now, the ball is not in our court. So once the rules and regulations get formalised, I will take a call but it needs to be in the best interest of the team,” Dhoni stated at an event in Hyderabad.
Mahi Speaks on his IPL Future ! 🎤🥹#MSDhoni #WhistlePodu #CSK #IPL2025
🎥 via @junaid_csk_7 pic.twitter.com/qNDbbkvmq6— TEAM MS DHONI #Dhoni (@imDhoni_fc) August 1, 2024
The BCCI and the IPL Governing Council sat down on July 31 with the owners of IPL franchises to discuss Mega Auctions. According to reports, all 10 franchises want the player retention cap increased to at least six and more flexibility in using RTM. This is to ensure that the integrity of team combinations built over the years is maintained.
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The much talked about Impact Player Rule, which met sharp criticism in its very first attempt last year, was discussed as well. As this edition of the IPL inches closer, Dhoni’s possible return and the changing retention rules will be followed closely by fans and analysts alike. Calls are going to decide the way forward for CSK, and it’s going to change the future dynamics of the league.
