With Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 looming on the horizon, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and their all-time great player MS Dhoni are back in focus.
Despite stepping down from captaincy ahead of the IPL 2024 season, Dhoni remains a pivotal figure in the CSK camp.
The 43-year-old has confirmed his participation in IPL 2025, sparking discussions about his potential role and the strategic planning for CSK’s future without him.
MS Dhoni’s Role in IPL 2025
Dhoni has joined CSK’s pre-season camp, bringing his leadership and experience to the team. He has been retained as an uncapped player under a new IPL rule, which allows players who haven’t played international cricket for five years to be categorized as uncapped.
This move enables CSK to retain Dhoni for a maximum of ₹4 crore, providing financial flexibility for the team
Dhoni’s role in the CSK camp is not restricted to his performances on the field. He is a prized asset to have as a veteran player and a mentor because he possesses leadership qualities and pressure-handling skills.
Even after relinquishing captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad, Dhoni’s presence is bound to provide stability and confidence to the team.
Post-Dhoni Era Planning
Experts believe that CSK has begun planning for a post-Dhoni era. Aakash Chopra, a retired cricketer, stated, “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.”
This planning involves developing younger players and ensuring a smooth transition of leadership roles within the team.
CSK’s 2025 IPL retention squad consists of Dhoni, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, and Matheesha Pathirana. This squad is structured to balance experience and youth to prepare for a post-Dhoni era.
CSK’s IPL 2025 Campaign
The season for IPL 2025 will be exciting for CSK, with Dhoni’s presence enhancing the team’s chances for a win.
Their season opener is against Mumbai Indians on March 22 in the Chepauk Stadium. All eyes will be on the clash between two of IPL’s most successful sides.
Dhoni’s Strategy and Fitness
Dhoni has been putting in a lot of hard work and is in his best physical condition following a knee surgery.
He has also changed his batting, employing lighter bats for IPL 2025 in an attempt to enhance his game.
