Kasi Vishwanathan, the CEO of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), has firmly denied rumors suggesting that the franchise requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to classify MS Dhoni as an uncapped player for the upcoming IPL 2025 season.
This statement comes amidst speculation regarding Dhoni’s future in the league and the potential reintroduction of a rule that would allow retired players to be treated as uncapped if they have been out of international cricket for five years or more.
Background on the Rumors
The speculation gained traction following a meeting between IPL franchise owners and the BCCI, where it was reported that CSK had pushed for the reinstatement of the uncapped player rule.
This rule was originally in place until 2021 but was discontinued with the expansion of the league. If reinstated, it would allow Dhoni, who retired from international cricket in 2020, to be retained by CSK at a significantly lower cost—approximately INR 4 crores, compared to the INR 12 crores he was retained for in the last auction.
CSK’s Official Stance on Dhoni as ‘Uncapped Player’
In response to the rumors, Vishwanathan clarified that CSK had not made any formal request to the BCCI regarding Dhoni’s classification.
He stated, “I’ve no idea about it. We’ve not requested it. They (the BCCI) have themselves told us that the ‘uncapped player rule’ may be kept; that’s all. They haven’t announced anything as yet. The rules and regulations will be announced by the BCCI.”
MS Dhoni’s Current Status
Dhoni’s future in the IPL remains uncertain. After leading CSK to their fifth title in 2023, he hinted at a potential retirement but has not made any official announcement.
In the 2024 season, he played a pivotal role, scoring 161 runs in 11 matches with an impressive strike rate of 220.54.
Following the season, he underwent knee surgery but returned to training shortly before the new season began.
