Will Chennai Super Kings Retain MS Dhoni as an Uncapped Player in IPL 5? What the Future Holds!

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The Future of MS Dhoni in the IPL: Could He Be Retained as an Uncapped Player for CSK in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025?

Will Chennai Super Kings Retain MS Dhoni as an Uncapped Player in IPL 5

MS Dhoni’s future in the Indian Premier League (IPL) continues to dominate discussions in the cricketing world. Speculation has been rife about the possibility of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) retaining their former captain as an uncapped player for the upcoming season. While reports surfaced suggesting that CSK made a request to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding Dhoni’s retention under a potential rule change, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has firmly denied such claims. As the BCCI considers reinstating the ‘uncapped player rule’, Dhoni’s status in the next IPL season remains uncertain.

The IPL Uncapped Player Rule: What Is It?

In IPL’s earlier seasons, there was a provision that allowed franchises to retain retired international players as uncapped for up to five years after their retirement. This rule offered teams a way to retain their stars at a significantly reduced cost. For uncapped players, the retention cost was set at Rs 4 crore, compared to much higher figures for capped players.

However, the BCCI scrapped this rule in 2021, aligning the retention policies with the changing dynamics of the league. Under the current regulations, players like Dhoni, who have retired from international cricket, are considered capped if retained, requiring a higher financial commitment from the franchises.

Last week, reports indicated that the BCCI was considering bringing back the uncapped player rule. If reintroduced, this rule could potentially allow teams like CSK to retain key players like MS Dhoni at a fraction of the cost. But the question remains: will Dhoni be retained under this provision?

CSK’s Response to the Reports

After speculation began circulating that CSK had approached the BCCI about retaining Dhoni as an uncapped player, the franchise swiftly denied these reports. Speaking to the Times of India, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan categorically stated that no such request was made to the BCCI.

Viswanathan clarified that while the BCCI has discussed the possibility of reinstating the uncapped player rule, no decisions have been made. “We have not requested anything regarding Dhoni’s retention under the uncapped player rule. The BCCI themselves told us that the rule might be reinstated, but nothing is confirmed yet. We are waiting for the official announcement from the BCCI regarding retention policies,” Viswanathan explained.

His statement puts to rest the rumors that CSK had already begun maneuvering to retain Dhoni at a reduced cost under a potential rule change.

What Does This Mean for MS Dhoni’s Future in the IPL?

As of now, the future of MS Dhoni in the IPL remains uncertain. The former CSK skipper has handed over the reins of captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the 2024 season but continued to play, albeit in a more limited capacity. Despite not being the captain, Dhoni’s presence on the field and his leadership influence were crucial for CSK’s successful season.

Dhoni’s role in the 2024 IPL season was largely symbolic. He batted sparingly, coming in during the final overs and making an impact in the limited opportunities he had. In 73 deliveries, Dhoni managed to score 161 runs at an impressive strike rate of 220.55. His on-field appearances were fewer, but his ability to close out games remained undiminished.

At a recent event in Hyderabad, Dhoni was asked about his plans for the next IPL season. His response was measured: “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 needs to be in the best interest of the team.”

This suggests that Dhoni is carefully considering his options and awaiting clarity from the BCCI regarding retention rules before making any decisions about his future in the IPL.

Could Dhoni Continue Playing at a Lower Cost?

If the uncapped player rule is reinstated, it could open up an opportunity for Dhoni to continue playing for CSK without putting a significant strain on the team’s salary purse. During the 2022 mega auction, CSK retained Dhoni for Rs 12 crore. Under the uncapped player rule, however, retaining him could cost CSK just Rs 4 crore, freeing up substantial funds for the team to strengthen other areas.

While Dhoni’s impact on the field may have diminished with age, his value to CSK goes beyond the numbers. He is the face of the franchise, a leader who brings experience, calmness, and strategic acumen to the table. Retaining Dhoni, even at a lower price, could allow CSK to retain the core of their team while making smart acquisitions in the auction.

What Lies Ahead for CSK and Dhoni?

As of now, everything hinges on the BCCI’s decision regarding the uncapped player rule. Should the rule be reinstated, CSK could have an easier path to retaining Dhoni without breaking the bank. However, if the rule remains scrapped, the franchise will have to weigh the cost of retaining their talismanic leader under the existing retention guidelines.

For Dhoni, the decision will likely be influenced by a combination of factors, including the BCCI’s retention policies, his own physical fitness, and his desire to continue playing in a meaningful role for CSK.

The IPL’s 2025 season may still be several months away, but the discussions surrounding Dhoni’s future will continue to capture the attention of fans and analysts alike. Whether he returns as an uncapped player, a regular member of the squad, or steps away from the game altogether, Dhoni’s legacy in the IPL is already cemented as one of the greatest.

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