IPL 2025: CSK has already begun their planning post MS Dhoni?

The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is fast approaching, and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are once again in the spotlight, largely due to their iconic player, MS Dhoni. At 43, Dhoni remains the most influential figure in the CSK camp, even though he stepped down as captain ahead of the IPL 2024 season. As speculations around his future intensify, former cricketers are weighing in on what to expect from the legendary wicketkeeper-batter in the upcoming season. In IPL 2024, CSK came agonizingly close to securing a playoff spot, finishing fifth after a loss in their final league match.

Now, with IPL 2025 around the corner, the five-time champions have kicked off a 10-day preparatory camp at their High-Performance Centre in Navalur, Tamil Nadu. Amid the buzz, fans noticed a Morse code message on Dhoni's t-shirt when he arrived in Chennai, which reportedly read, “One Last Time.” This has fueled intense speculation about whether IPL 2025 will be Dhoni’s final season. Aakash Chopra, a former India opener, believes that CSK has already started preparing for life after Dhoni. While it remains unclear whether this will indeed be Dhoni’s last season, the cryptic message has ignited plenty of conversations about the future of both the player and the franchise.

“I think the planning for the post-Dhoni era has begun. Because now we can see that a time is coming when Dhoni as a player will not be a part of that group,” former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra said in a recent interview. 

Former India captain Anil Kumble also weighed in on the possibility of MS Dhoni playing a reduced role in IPL 2025, suggesting that Ruturaj Gaikwad might take over as the team's captain. Kumble pointed out that Dhoni’s involvement could be more strategic this season, particularly in guiding younger players, while allowing the franchise to adapt to new leadership.

Interestingly, Kumble noted that the introduction of the “impact player rule” in IPL 2025 could provide a significant advantage for Dhoni. With the ability to substitute players during the match, the legendary wicketkeeper-batter could be used in a more tactical manner, making key contributions when needed, while conserving his energy for specific moments in the game. This would allow CSK to utilize Dhoni's experience and leadership without overburdening him. As the team transitions into a new era, Dhoni’s expertise in mentoring younger players, along with his sharp tactical mind, would be invaluable, even if he doesn't take on a major playing role. This shift could ensure that the franchise remains competitive while preparing for life beyond their long-time captain.

“With Ruturaj leading the side, this could be a season where Dhoni may not even take the field. He might still be part of the squad, thanks to retention rules, and with the impact player rule, his presence can still be valuable without playing every game,” stated Anil Kumble.