Cricket

Chennai Super Kings' Potential Retentions for 2025 IPL Mega AuctionFormer India spinner Harbhajan Singh has predicted that five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will retain five key players ahead of the 2025 mega auction. According to Singh, the franchise is likely to prioritize the retention of MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Rachin Ravindra, and Matheesha Pathirana.Singh expressed uncertainty over Dhoni's IPL future but emphasized that if the veteran wicketkeeper-batsman is available, he would be CSK's first choice for retention. He also highlighted the importance of Jadeja, Ravindra, and Gaikwad, who have been instrumental in the team's success in recent seasons."I'm not certain if Dhoni will play or not, but if he's available, he would certainly be the team's first choice for retention, even if he is considered an uncapped player this season," Singh said. "Following him, the next pick would be Ravindra Jadeja, then Rachin Ravindra. As for the captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad, he would also be a definite retention."Singh also praised Pathirana, a young Sri Lankan pacer who impressed for CSK in the 2024 season. He believes that the franchise could retain Pathirana as their fifth player."I believe these four players will be retained. Besides them, we could also see Pathirana, who is an excellent bowler, kept in the squad," Singh added. "And if an uncapped player is retained, there could be a surprise choice, but CSK may only retain five players."The IPL franchises have been given an auction purse of INR 120 crore for the 2025 season. The deadline for finalizing their retention list is October 31.

Legendary Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni has hinted at continuing his illustrious career in the Indian Premier League (IPL) beyond 2025. The 43-year-old, who has led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to four IPL titles, expressed his desire to play for "the next few years" and maintain his fitness for the grueling tournament.Dhoni's comments come amidst speculation about his future in the IPL. He had previously handed over the CSK captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the 2024 season. However, his continued presence in the team would be a major boost for the franchise and the tournament as a whole."I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I am able to play," Dhoni said at a promotional event. "When you play cricket like a professional sport, it becomes difficult to enjoy it just like a game. That's what I want to do. It's not easy. The emotions keep coming, the commitments are there. I want to enjoy the game for the next few years."Dhoni's words suggest that he is not only targeting the 2025 IPL season but also the subsequent three-year cycle after the mega auction. He emphasized the need to stay fit for nine months to prepare for the two-and-a-half-month IPL season."I have to keep myself fit for nine months, so that I can play two and a half months of IPL. You need to plan it out, but at the same time chill a bit," Dhoni said.With his last appearance for Team India being over five years ago, Dhoni can be retained by CSK as an uncapped player at a price of only Rs 4 crore. This is due to the revival of a rule that was previously removed in 2021.Dhoni's continued presence in the IPL would not only benefit CSK but also the tournament itself. As one of the most iconic and successful players in IPL history, his presence would add star power and excitement to the competition.

MS Dhoni's participation in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season remains uncertain, as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan awaits confirmation from the legendary wicketkeeper-batsman."We have still no confirmation from him, though we would like him to continue playing for us," Viswanathan told ESPNcricinfo. "Hope he will confirm before 31st [October]."October 31 is the deadline for franchises to submit their list of retained players to the IPL ahead of the mega auction. Dhoni is eligible to be retained by CSK as an uncapped player, thanks to a rule change that considers players retired from international cricket for five years as uncapped.Dhoni, who last played for India in the 2019 ODI World Cup, retired from international cricket in August 2020. He has since played exclusively in the IPL, scoring 161 runs at a strike rate of 220 as a finisher in the 2024 season after handing over the CSK captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad.If CSK retains Dhoni as an uncapped player, they will lose only INR 4 crore from their auction purse of INR 120 crore. Franchises are allowed to retain up to six players ahead of the mega auction, with a maximum of five capped internationals.While it is highly likely that Dhoni will be retained by CSK, the franchise's decision will depend on his availability and performance in the upcoming season.

Chennai Super Kings Face Dilemma: Ruturaj Gaikwad or Ravindra Jadeja for Higher Retention Slab?As the Indian Premier League (IPL) retention deadline of October 31 approaches, all franchises are finalizing their rosters. Among the most scrutinized teams is five-time champion Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who must decide between Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ravindra Jadeja for the higher retention slab.According to reports, CSK is considering offering both players the same pay scale. The official retention slabs are: Rs 18 crore (first), Rs 14 crore (second), Rs 18 crore (third), Rs 14 crore (fourth), Rs 11 crore (fifth), and Rs 4 crore (uncapped player).However, CSK may opt to avoid creating a disparity between Gaikwad and Jadeja. Gaikwad has emerged as the franchise's captain, while Jadeja has been a mainstay since 2012 and was CSK's highest retention before the previous mega auction.The Times of India reports that while CSK is leaning towards equalizing the pay of Gaikwad and Jadeja, a final decision is pending. The management will consult with both players before making an announcement.If CSK retains four players, two retention slabs of Rs 18 crore are mandatory, potentially opening the door for Gaikwad and Jadeja to be retained on equal terms.Another consideration for CSK is the Right to Match (RTM) option, which allows teams to retain players who have been released into the auction. CSK must decide whether to retain Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana and Indian all-rounder Shivam Dube using the RTM.Notably, the RTM option is included in the six retentions. If a team uses all six retentions, it will have no RTM at the auction.

Ram Babu, an ardent fan of former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni, has revealed the enduring bond between the two. Despite Dhoni's retirement from international cricket, he continues to support Babu, providing him with match passes to various matches across India.Babu, known for his iconic T-shirt adorned with the Indian tricolour and Dhoni's jersey number 7, shared how Dhoni personally ensures he receives match passes. "I take Dhoni's name to the stadium, and the passes I've been receiving so far are all arranged by Dhoni sir," Babu disclosed in a viral video.This heartwarming gesture highlights Dhoni's humility and appreciation for his fans. Babu expressed his unwavering support for the Indian team and his intention to continue chanting Dhoni's name at matches, even if he no longer plays for the country.Meanwhile, Dhoni's future with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) remains uncertain ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction. With five IPL titles under his belt, Dhoni's IPL future will significantly impact CSK's strategy for the upcoming season.Interestingly, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a new rule allowing players who have not represented India for over five years to be classified as 'uncapped'. This enables CSK to retain Dhoni for a base price of ₹4 crore, giving hope to fans who wish to see him play for the franchise once more.Whether Dhoni plays the IPL or not, his legacy extends far beyond the cricket field. His unwavering support for his fans and his humility have made him an icon not only in India but worldwide.

MS Dhoni's future in the Indian Premier League (IPL) remains uncertain as the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have yet to initiate talks with the legendary wicketkeeper-batter regarding his potential retention as a player. However, a recent report suggests that the two parties are scheduled to meet in mid-October to discuss the matter.The IPL Governing Council's decision to reinstate the rule allowing retired Indian players to be selected as uncapped players has opened up the possibility for CSK to retain Dhoni in the INR 4 crore category, freeing up funds for other players ahead of the auction.According to Cricbuzz, Dhoni has returned from his US trip and is expected to hold talks with CSK in the coming weeks. The ten IPL franchises are permitted to retain up to six players from their IPL 2024 squad, including a maximum of five capped players and two uncapped players.Former India cricketer Ajay Jadeja believes Dhoni's retention is a foregone conclusion. "MS Dhoni for sure. There's no doubt about that, especially because he's now an uncapped player. He's done a lot for the team and has no desire to be treated as the No. 1 player on the squad. His value is unquestioned."Ruturaj Gaikwad, the current CSK captain, and Ravindra Jadeja are also expected to be retained. Ex-India batter Aakash Chopra suggests that CSK may use the Right to Match (RTM) card to acquire Deepak Chahar, depending on his fitness."I don't think they'll retain five players. They might go for 3-4. I see two players worth 18 CR in Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ravindra Jadeja. If you want to keep them, you have to match that price. Other than that, they have MS Dhoni, Shivam Dube, and Matheesha Pathirana.""I think they'll keep Dube and use the RTM card for Deepak Chahar, maybe, depending on his fitness. The price for these players is really high, so the RTM card could be useful to get players for cheaper. If Dube is sold in the auction, he might fetch over 10 or 11 crores."

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has reintroduced the uncapped player rule, allowing teams to retain experienced players at a reduced cost. This rule has come as a boon for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who can now retain MS Dhoni for just Rs 12 crores over three seasons.Dhoni, who has been the face of CSK since the inaugural edition of the IPL, brings immense value to the team both on and off the field. His leadership, experience, and ability to mentor young players make him an invaluable asset.The uncapped player rule states that a capped Indian player becomes uncapped if they have not played in the starting XI in international cricket or do not have a central contract with the BCCI in the last five calendar years. This rule allows teams to retain players who may not be regular members of the national team but still have the ability to perform at the highest level.Former Australia all-rounder and ex-Sunrisers Hyderabad head coach Tom Moody believes the uncapped player rule is a positive move. He said, "I think it's a great rule. It allows players who are good enough and have longevity to continue playing on the big stage and perform."Moody also suggested that the five-year rule could be further reduced to three years. He said, "I personally think five years is a long time; I would like to see it as a three-year window."CSK has yet to have discussions with Dhoni regarding his future after the retention rules were announced. However, the team is likely to retain him as one of their three players. This would allow them to retain other key players such as Ravindra Jadeja, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Matheesha Pathirana.The reintroduction of the uncapped player rule is a significant development for the IPL. It allows teams to retain experienced players at a reduced cost, which could lead to more competitive and exciting matches in the future.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) Governing Council's recent decision to reinstate the rule allowing franchises to register retired or inactive international players as "uncapped" has sparked a flurry of speculation. Many believe the move was specifically tailored to accommodate legendary cricketer MS Dhoni, enabling the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to retain him at a reduced cost of INR 4 crore.While CSK has denied any prior discussions with Dhoni, former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif is convinced that the rule change was solely motivated by the desire to keep Dhoni in the game. "You will see MS Dhoni again. He's fit, batting at a strike rate of 200, and keeping well. That's why I believe the rules will keep changing until he wants to play," Kaif said on Star Sports.Kaif believes the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was justified in altering the rulebook, given Dhoni's exceptional status. "I believe the rule has been changed rightly. If he's fit and playing well, why not change the rule and let him play? Everyone knows the rule has been changed for Dhoni sahab, and why not? You would want to change the rule for a player like Dhoni," Kaif asserted.Dhoni has hinted that his IPL future hinges on the league's retention rules. Now that the rules are clear, the veteran wicket-keeper batter is expected to make his decision known soon.The IPL's decision to accommodate Dhoni has raised questions about the fairness of the competition. Some argue that it gives CSK an unfair advantage, while others believe it is a fitting tribute to one of the greatest players in the game.Regardless of the controversy, it is clear that Dhoni remains a pivotal figure in Indian cricket. His presence in the IPL would undoubtedly boost the league's popularity and provide fans with the opportunity to witness one of the most iconic players of all time.

MS Dhoni's IPL Future Secured with Rule Change, Says Mohammad KaifFormer Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has hailed a recent rule change in the Indian Premier League (IPL) that could extend MS Dhoni's illustrious career beyond 2024. The new rule classifies players who have not represented India for five years as "uncapped," regardless of their past achievements. This reclassification makes Dhoni eligible to play as an uncapped player in the 2025 IPL season, despite his retirement from international cricket in 2019.Kaif, speaking on Star Sports, expressed his support for the rule change, citing Dhoni's enduring impact on the game. "You will get the chance to see MS Dhoni again. He is fit, batting at a strike rate of 200, keeping well, and that is why I believe the rules will keep changing till he wishes to play. If he wants to play in the IPL, he will play. He is such a big player, such a big match-winner, and has been a leader for CSK," Kaif said.Kaif also dismissed concerns about Dhoni's financial status, noting that the former CSK captain is not motivated by money. "I believe the rule has been changed rightly. And Dhoni himself says, 'I don’t need money, I’ll adjust to whatever the team decides.' Even if he gets 4 crore as an uncapped player (Paise chahe 4 crore mil rahe ho as an uncapped player), it doesn't matter to him. It sounds strange to say because 4 crore isn't much for him. Everyone knows the rule has been changed for Dhoni sahab, and why not, you will want to change the rule for a player like Dhoni."The IPL governing council approved the rule change at its recent meeting in Bengaluru, allowing teams to retain up to six players before the auction. This move has generated excitement among fans, as it opens the door for Dhoni's potential return as an uncapped player. With the auction purse increased to Rs 120 crore, the new rule not only enhances teams' strategic options but also gives CSK a chance to retain their iconic leader.