While CSK are set to retain MS Dhoni for IPL 2025, Rishabh Pant could also be a target for the franchise should he enter the mega-auction. (BCCI)
Ahead of a scheduled meeting with Chennai Super Kings management, MS Dhoni stating that he wants to continue playing has raised hopes of the former India captain’s participation in the next edition of the IPL. With the deadline for announcing retention nearing, Dhoni’s hint is seen as the first confirmation that the franchise may even retain him ahead of the auctions as an uncapped player.
Speaking at an event in Goa, Dhoni said: “I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I am able to play. 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.”
Since playing CSK’s last league match at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Dhoni has maintained silence about his future as a player. Having stepped down as captain ahead of the 2024 season, with big auctions around the corner, Dhoni has chosen to play a waiting game.
“The emotions keep coming, the commitments are there. I want to enjoy the game for the next few years. 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.
Though Dhoni had made these comments, he is yet to speak to the franchise officials. “We saw what he said at the event. So when he is ready, what more do we want?” Kasi Viswanathan said. “We will be having a meeting soon with him and then we will have a clear picture about our retentions,” he added.
It is understood that the CSK management, Dhoni, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and head coach Stephen Fleming are scheduled to have a virtual meeting in the next couple of days to finalise the retentions. While Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja and Matheesha Pathirana are certain to be retained alongside Dhoni if he chooses to play, the franchise is planning to keep RTM options open as well. Irrespective of whether Dhoni plays or not, the franchise is understood to be on the look-out for a wicketkeeper.
In case Rishabh Pant comes into the auction pool, there is a strong possibility that all of it could change with the franchise being linked as one of India wicketkeeper’s potential new destination. CSK are in for a major overhaul with an eye on the future.
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