Robin Uthappa, who played for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 said MS Dhoni himself would have taken the decision to retain him as the 2nd pick ahead of the IPL 2022 mega-auction, saying the CSK skipper understands the value of Ravindra Jadeja who has been the first retention for teh franchise in Tuesday’s retention process.

Chennai Super Kings retained Ravindra Jadeja for INR 16 crores while MS Dhoni was held back for INR 12 crores. The English all-rounder Moeen Ali has retained for INR 8 crores while opener Ruturaj Gaikwad has been retained for INR 8 crores as the 4-time champions spent INR 42 crores.

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MS Dhoni, who said he would like to play his farewell match in Chennai, quashing speculation over his future in the IPL, had hinted that his retention by CSK will depend on the auction strategy.

During a chat on Star Sports on Tuesday, Robin Uthappa said CSK’s retention is a clear indication that Ravindra Jadeja can become the next captain of the Chennai-based franchise whenever MS Dhoni decides to retire from competitive cricket. Dhoni did not contribute much with the bat in IPL 2021 but he was as good as ever with his tactics on the field as he led CSK to their 4th title in 2021, helping them bounce back after witnessing a forgettable outing in the 2020 season in the UAE.

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Explaining the same, Robin Uthappa said, “I am sure that is MS Dhoni’s doing itself. He knows the value that Jadeja has to the unit. I think from what I understand, Jadeja might be someone who could end up leading the squad in the future as well when MS Dhoni retires. They have given him the due he deserved.”