MS Dhoni, the beloved Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star, has once again put an end to retirement rumors. As the IPL 2025 season begins, fans wondered if this would be his last year. However, Dhoni made it clear he’s not going anywhere yet. Speaking to Jio Hotstar before CSK’s opening match against Mumbai Indians on March 23, 2025, he said, “I can play for as long as I want for CSK. That’s my franchise. Even if I’m in a wheelchair, they’ll drag me.” At 43, Dhoni remains a key part of CSK, and his words show his strong bond with the team.
The first game of CSK at MA Chidambaram Stadium offers Dhoni a chance to make history. He needs just 19 more runs to become CSK’s highest run-scorer in the IPL. Last season, he batted lower down the order, usually at No. 7 or 8, and still made a big impact. This year, he plans to stick to that role. Even so, his ability to hit the ball hard and finish games keeps him valuable. Fans will cheer loudly if he reaches this milestone in the opener against Mumbai Indians.
MS Dhoni’s value to CSK goes beyond his batting. His presence lifts the entire team. CSK’s current captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad, took over leadership last season and still looks up to Dhoni. On the day before the Mumbai match, Gaikwad said, “A lot of new players have joined the team, and sometimes they struggle to hit the ball as well as he does right now. So, it definitely inspires a lot of us, including myself.” Dhoni’s skill and calmness push everyone to perform better, making him a leader even without the captain’s title.
MS Dhoni said “I can play for as long as I want for CSK – That is my franchise. Even if I am in a wheelchair, they will drag me”. [Big smile – JioHotstar] pic.twitter.com/8CaDdRAS9p
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) March 23, 2025
MS Dhoni’s record with CSK is amazing. He led the team to 10 finals in 14 seasons and won 5 titles – in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023. Plus, CSK made it to the playoffs 12 times under him. This success makes CSK one of the strongest teams in IPL history. Dhoni’s smart thinking and cool-headed decisions have built this legacy. Even now, as he steps back from captaincy, his experience guides the team on and off the field.
Retirement? Not Yet
For years, people have guessed when Dhoni might retire. Yet, he keeps coming back, and his latest comments prove he’s not ready to stop. “I’ll walk away on my terms,” he seems to say with his words and actions. The “wheelchair” comment shows his humor but also his determination to stay with CSK as long as he can. For now, the iconic “Thala,” as fans call him, shows no signs of slowing down. His love for CSK and cricket keeps him going.
As IPL 2025 starts, all eyes will be on Dhoni. Can he break the run-scoring record? Will he help CSK win another title? Whatever happens, his journey with CSK continues to excite fans. With Gaikwad leading and Dhoni inspiring, the team looks strong. Retirement can wait – Dhoni’s still here to play and win.
