IPL Governing Body's Decision to Allow Dhoni as 'Uncapped' Player Endorsed by Dinesh Karthik

MS Dhoni's 'Uncapped' Status: Dinesh Karthik Endorses IPL's Decision

Former Indian wicket-keeper batter Dinesh Karthik has expressed his unwavering support for the IPL governing body's decision to allow MS Dhoni to play as an 'uncapped' cricketer in the upcoming season. This move, enabled by new retention rules, allows players who have not represented India in the past five years to be retained at a significantly lower price.

Karthik believes that this rule was specifically crafted for Dhoni, who has been an integral part of the IPL's success. "Everybody talks about it. This rule is made for one man and I am for it through and through," he told Cricbuzz. "This man has been such a major part of what this IPL has been about."

Karthik emphasized Dhoni's impact on the league's popularity and financial success. "You can ask any TV broadcaster and you will get the answer that when this man steps on the field, the ratings go up. This is a fact. If you are going to do something that is going to help the league, why not?"

The new retention rules define an 'uncapped' Indian player as one who has not played in the starting XI of an international match (Test, ODI, or T20I) or does not have a Central Contract with the BCCI in the past five years. Dhoni, who retired from international cricket in 2020, last played for India in July 2019.

Karthik believes that the rule is fair and beneficial to all teams. "If everybody is in a happy place - be it BCCI, be it any of the teams, be it how the league has performed over the years and how it has kept players so happy over the last 15-18 years, this man has played a major role," he said.

The IPL's decision to allow Dhoni to play as an 'uncapped' cricketer has sparked mixed reactions. Some critics argue that it undermines the spirit of the retention rules, while others view it as a necessary exception for a player of Dhoni's stature.

Regardless of the differing opinions, it is clear that Dhoni remains a highly valued asset for the Chennai Super Kings and the IPL as a whole. His presence on the field is sure to generate excitement and boost viewership, further solidifying the league's position as one of the most popular sporting events in the world.

Tags: #MSDhoni, #IPL, #Uncapped, #DineshKarthik, #ChennaiSuperKings