MS Dhoni is now eligible to be classified as an uncapped player for the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction.
This change comes under Rule No. 7 of the newly released IPL Player Regulations for the 2025-27 cycle, which allows capped Indian players who have not participated in international cricket for the last five years to be recognized as uncapped.
IPL 2025: What is Rule No. 7?
According to Rule No. 7, an Indian player will be considered uncapped if they have not played in the starting XI for any international format (Test, ODI, or T20I) in the past five calendar years or do not hold a central contract with the BCCI.
This rule was initially part of the IPL regulations from its inception in 2008 until it was scrapped in 2021 due to lack of implementation.
For Dhoni, who last played for India in July 2019 during the World Cup semi-final against New Zealand, this means he qualifies as an uncapped player heading into the auction.
This classification significantly benefits CSK, as they could retain him for a much lower price—just ₹4 crore—compared to the ₹12 crore they paid in 2022.
Impact on CSK and Dhoni’s Future
This ruling is crucial for CSK’s strategy as they prepare for the mega auction. The franchise is keen on retaining Dhoni, who has been an iconic figure and leader for the team.
Reports indicate that CSK officials have expressed their intent to keep him on board, emphasizing his importance both on and off the field.
Dhoni himself has stated that he will assess his future based on the finalized rules and regulations regarding player retention.
He mentioned, “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.” His decision will ultimately hinge on what is best for CSK.
Broader Implications of New Rules
The IPL’s new retention rules allow franchises to retain up to six players, including a maximum of five capped players and two uncapped players.
This flexibility aims to foster team continuity while allowing franchises to build competitive squads.
With an increased auction purse of ₹120 crore for each franchise and new match fee structures introduced, teams will have more financial leeway to strategize effectively during the IPL 2025 auction.
