During the present IPL 2025, MS Dhoni, one of the best leaders the world has ever seen, has made headlines once more. For his performance in the current IPL season, he has been the target of harsh criticism. The supporters have been scrutinizing Dhoni since he was unable to complete matches.
Given that the IPL 2025 season has just begun, many believed that the CSK and Indian cricketing legend had abruptly ended his career.
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Dhoni retirement: Is it just speculation or is there any truth in it?
Dhoni’s role in the team has also been questioned following the team’s defeats to the Rajasthan Royals and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their last two games. He batted late in the innings in both games, and many people questioned if he ought to have batted earlier to give the team a chance to win.
Even though Dhoni retired from international cricket in 2020, he has continued to play in the IPL. The Chennai Super Kings kept the 43-year-old on as an uncapped player. Dhoni had an incredible 2024 IPL season, smashing a strike rate of over 220, but his batting ability may not have the same impact as it once did.
Dhoni retirement speculation: Is CSK having problems because of MS Dhoni’s batting position?
First of all, MSD is an uncapped player participating in the 2025 Indian Premier League, and there has been discussion about his batting position. The squad appeared down and out throughout the match against RCB, and MSD chose to wait rather than bat when R Ashwin was sent in, a choice that was criticized.
The squad was in terrible shape going into the match against Rajasthan once more, but MSD walked out to bat at number seven and was unable to complete the match, causing CSK to lose back-to-back IPL games.
Also read: Who is bad captain in IPL
Why MS Dhoni might retire from IPL?(Dhoni retirement)
Cricket fans, commentators, and specialists all disagree on whether MS Dhoni should resign from the Indian Premier League (IPL). His age, his changing role, and the future of his team, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), are some of the reasons he might think about leaving. The following explains why some people think it could be time for him to retire:
1. Age and Physical Demands: As of April 2025, Dhoni, who was born on July 7, 1981, is 43 years old. Even though Dhoni has remained remarkably healthy, the physical demands of wicketkeeping and batting in a T20 format might be exhausting at this point. The IPL is a high-intensity competition. Even while they are still quick, his reflexes might not be as good as they used to be, particularly in running between wickets. He might be able to leave in style and leave a lasting legacy by retiring(Dhoni retirement).
2. Limited Batting Contribution: Rather than anchoring innings as he did in his prime, Dhoni has moved to a lower batting position (often 7 or 8) in recent IPL seasons, playing brief, explosive cameos. He scored 104 runs with a strike rate of 182.45, for instance, in 16 IPL 2023 matches, but his average was only 26, indicating that he had less opportunities to bat higher up. Critics contend that in order to strengthen their middle order, CSK would be better off replacing him with a younger, more reliable batsman.
3. Team Transition: CSK has been synonymous with Dhoni’s leadership, winning five IPL titles under him (tied for the most with Mumbai Indians). However, with Ruturaj Gaikwad taking over as captain in IPL 2024, the team is already in a transition phase. Dhoni’s retirement could fully empower the next generation—players like Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, or even a new keeper—to take ownership and shape CSK’s future without his towering presence overshadowing them.
4. Preservation of Legacy: Known as “Captain Cool,” Dhoni is among the best players in IPL history, having amassed over 5,000 runs. Instead of running the danger of a drop in form or fitness that could damage his reputation, some supporters and pundits believe that retiring now, when he is still having an influence (such as his clutch efforts in 2023), would solidify his legacy as a winner.
On the other hand, his devoted following, his ability to win games on his own, and his worth as a mentor to CSK are all reasons against retiring. He continues to have an exceptional strike rate and unparalleled experience. Although retirement is ultimately a personal decision, the argument for it depends on factors like age, team development, and departing at the height of his impact rather than waning. Do you think he should stay or leave?
What damage can Dhoni’s retirement cause to CSK or IPL?
The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and the larger IPL ecosystem may be significantly impacted by MS Dhoni’s IPL retirement. Given his age, his departure is unavoidable, but the effects would be felt on a number of levels, including commercial, strategic, and emotional. The possible harm is explained as follows:
1. The Vacuum of Leadership: With his tactical skill and poise, Dhoni has been the cornerstone of CSK’s success, helping them win five IPL titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023). Ruturaj Gaikwad took over as captain in 2024, although his on-field presence and off-field leadership were still crucial. Without him, CSK might find it difficult to replicate Dhoni’s composed, decisive leadership, particularly in high-pressure scenarios.
2. Fan Base Erosion: Dhoni is the main attraction for CSK and is frequently referred to by supporters as “Thala” (leader). Given that he is a cultural figure in Chennai, his departure may cause the franchise’s enormous fan following to become less emotionally invested. Attendance, sales of products, and team morale may all be impacted.
3. Wicketkeeping Dilemma: Dhoni’s ability to play as batter and wicketkeeper has been a tactical advantage. It’s difficult to find a successor who can contribute with the bat and match his glove skills (still neat despite his age). CSK may have to risk instability by relying on unproven talent or making significant auction investments.
4. Brand Identity Shift: Dhoni has made CSK resilient, consistent, and dominant in yellow. If the team struggles when Dhoni leaves, his departure might necessitate a rebranding of sorts, and the change may not be as well received by sponsors or fans.
5. Viewership Decline: Despite CSK’s poor performance, Dhoni is one of the IPL’s top stars and attracts spectators from all over the world. Particularly among casual fans who tune in for “Dhoni moments,” his retirement may result in a decline in TV ratings and internet streaming figures. To put it in perspective, the IPL 2023 final, which starred Dhoni, was one of the most viewed games ever.
6. Commercial Impact: Dhoni’s marketability propels ticket sales, sponsorships, and endorsement deals. Without his star power, brands connected to CSK or the IPL, such as marketers and broadcasters (like Star Sports), may suffer lower returns. In the past, his participation has increased the league’s valuation, which in 2022 reached $10.7 billion.
7. Loss of Legacy and Nostalgia: The IPL benefits greatly from its blend of up-and-coming players and iconic personalities. That nostalgia is personified by Dhoni, who serves as a link between the league’s early history and its current period. His departure and additional retirements (like those of Kohli or Rohit in the future) may cause the IPL to seem less rooted in its legendary history, which could turn off more seasoned supporters.
Dhoni’s continued presence in the IPL is both inspiring and debatable. His strike rate and experience are unmatched, yet his role seems to be shifting. Many believe he should step aside to allow younger players to shine. However, his mentorship and ability to turn games around are invaluable. Do you think it’s time for Dhoni to retire, or should he continue playing?