Will MS Dhoni play IPL 2025? Here's the update

Former cricketer Suresh Raina has expressed his desire for the legendary wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni to continue playing for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL 2025 season. Dhoni, who led CSK to victory in the 2023 edition of the IPL by clinching the title against Gujarat Titans in a dramatic final, had previously hinted at the possibility of playing one more season. However, he mentioned that his decision would largely depend on how his body feels in the lead-up to the next tournament. As the IPL 2025 season approaches, Dhoni has remained tight-lipped about his future. Various media reports suggest that the 43-year-old cricketer will make his final decision based on the BCCI's announcement regarding the retention and Right to Match (RTM) policies before the upcoming auction. These policies are crucial as they determine how teams can retain their existing players and what options are available for acquiring new talent.

The IPL governing council is expected to finalize and announce these key details in the first week of September. The clarity on retention and RTM rules will play a significant role in shaping the team composition and Dhoni’s potential involvement in the upcoming season. Until then, fans and cricket enthusiasts will have to wait for the official announcements to see if Dhoni will indeed return for another season with CSK, continuing his illustrious career with the franchise.

Regardless of the uncertainty surrounding MS Dhoni's future, Suresh Raina strongly hopes that Dhoni will return to play in the IPL 2025 season. Raina fondly recalled Dhoni’s charismatic performance with the bat in the previous season, highlighting his pivotal role in leading the Chennai Super Kings to victory. Dhoni's presence on the field was not only instrumental in securing the title but also a testament to his enduring skill and leadership.

Raina also emphasized the importance of Dhoni's mentorship for young players like Ruturaj Gaikwad. He believes that Gaikwad would benefit greatly from Dhoni's experienced guidance, which could significantly aid in his development as a cricketer. Dhoni's vast experience and strategic acumen have always been invaluable assets for CSK, and Raina feels that continuing to have him on the team would be beneficial for both the squad's performance and the growth of emerging talent. As fans eagerly await the official announcements regarding Dhoni’s participation, Raina’s sentiments reflect a widespread desire to see the legendary captain continue to contribute to the IPL’s excitement and success.

“I want MS Dhoni to play in IPL 2025, considering how he batted last year. I feel Ruturaj Gaikwad needs one more year, the way he captained and a lot of things were said after the loss to RCB (Royal Challengers Bengaluru). However, Ruturaj has done a great job,” former CSK captain Suresh Raina told SportsTak.

MS Dhoni had previously stated that he would make a decision regarding his participation in the IPL 2025 season based on what is best for the Chennai Super Kings. Dhoni, a towering figure in the tournament's history, has played 264 matches, accumulating a remarkable 5,243 runs at a strike rate of 137.53. In the 2024 edition, Dhoni showcased his striking prowess by scoring 161 runs across 11 innings at an astonishing strike rate of 220.54. Despite his impressive performance, he could not lead his team to the playoffs, marking a rare miss for the successful captain.

Meanwhile, Suresh Raina is set to make a return to competitive cricket with his participation in the upcoming edition of the Legends League Cricket. The tournament is scheduled to commence on September 20, and Raina will be joined by former teammates Dinesh Karthik and Shikhar Dhawan, who have also signed up for this season. The Legends League Cricket will be hosted in several cities, including Jodhpur, Surat, Jammu, and Srinagar, providing a platform for cricketing legends to showcase their skills once again. Raina's involvement in this league offers fans a chance to witness his continued excellence on the field, even as the IPL season looms.