Is the 2025 IPL season MS Dhoni‘s final one? The Indian cricket icon subtly hinted at his potential retirement when he arrived in Chennai a month ago, sporting a T-shirt featuring the words “One Last Time” in Morse code. This sparked widespread speculation among fans on social media. However, the 43-year-old broke his silence on retirement rumours ahead of Chennai Super Kings‘ season opener against Mumbai Indians on Sunday at home, stating that neither he nor the franchise is ready to part ways anytime soon.
Speaking to Jio Hotstar before the highly anticipated ‘El Clasico’ clash at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Dhoni stated that he could play for CSK for as long as he wished. He added that even if injury left him in a wheelchair, the franchise would still find a way to persuade him to play another season.
“I can continue playing for CSK as long as I want. They’re my team, and even if I’m in a wheelchair, they’ll pull me along,” he stated.
“I am of no use if I don’t keep wickets for the team,” added.
Dhoni struggled with a knee injury during the 2023 IPL season, following which he underwent surgery. He took the rest of the year to recover before returning for the 17th edition of the IPL. During this season, Dhoni gave up his captaincy role and adjusted his batting position, preferring to bat at No. 8 or lower. Despite this, he scored 161 runs off 73 balls, with an impressive strike rate of 220.
In Chennai’s season opener, Dhoni has a chance to make history. He is just 19 runs away from becoming the franchise’s highest run-scorer in the IPL, with former star Suresh Raina currently holding the top spot with 4687 runs.
Meanwhile, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is only eight wickets away from becoming CSK’s leading wicket-taker in the IPL. Jadeja’s tally is currently second only to Dwayne Bravo’s 140 wickets for the five-time champions.