In a moment of relief for millions of cricket fans, MS Dhoni, the enduring face of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), has put retirement rumors to rest, affirming that he has no immediate plans to walk away from the IPL. The cricketing legend made his much-anticipated statement on a recent podcast with entrepreneur Raj Shamani, following days of speculation sparked by a few emotional moments off the field.
The retirement chatter began after Dhoni’s parents were spotted in the stands during CSK’s April 5 clash at the MA Chidambaram Stadium—a rare sight that led fans to believe something significant was afoot. Things escalated quickly when Sakshi Dhoni, MS’s wife, was seen telling their daughter Ziva, “last match,” during a candid moment that was picked up by eagle-eyed viewers and quickly went viral on social media.
However, Dhoni has now clarified that while he's nearing the twilight of his career, the final call will be made not based on age, but on how his body responds to the physical demands of the game.
“No, not right now. I’m still playing the IPL. I’ve kept it very simple—I take it one year at a time. I’m 43, and by the time IPL 2025 ends, I’ll be 44. After that, I’ll have 10 months to decide whether I’ll play or not. But it’s not me who decides—it’s my body that decides,” Dhoni said during the podcast.
This statement has not only reassured CSK fans, but also added to the mystique of Dhoni’s iconic presence in the IPL, where he remains one of the most beloved and respected figures in the sport.
CSK head coach Stephen Fleming, who has worked with Dhoni for over a decade, also weighed in on the situation post-match against Delhi Capitals, choosing to steer clear of the speculation.
“I have no idea. I’m just enjoying working with him still. He is still going strong. I don’t even ask [about his future] these days,” Fleming said, reflecting the mutual respect and understanding shared between the two veterans.
Earlier this year, during a pre-season promotional event, Dhoni had spoken nostalgically about his relationship with cricket, hinting that he’s not just here to compete but to relive the joy of his early playing days.
“I’ve been retired from international cricket since 2019, so it’s already been quite some time. Right now, I just want to enjoy cricket for however many years I still have. I want to enjoy the game like I used to as a kid—when 4 p.m. was our sports time in the colony. We played cricket if the weather was good, or football if it wasn’t. I want to play with that same innocence, though that’s easier said than done.”
Dhoni’s approach—measured, mature, and anchored in self-awareness—is consistent with the calm persona he has exhibited throughout his illustrious career. While IPL 2025 may or may not be his last season, one thing is certain: Dhoni will exit on his own terms, driven by instinct and physical readiness, not external noise.
With the IPL heating up and CSK gunning for another title under his stewardship, Dhoni continues to inspire not just with his performances, but with his words, his mindset, and his unwavering commitment to the game.
