‘We also want him to play’ - CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan on MS Dhoni’s retention status ahead of IPL mega auction

With the IPL mega auction rapidly approaching, the fans are eagerly waiting for the retention lists of every IPL franchise, with many eyes set upon the five-time champions Chennai Super Kings. Many have come forth and expressed their interest in witnessing former India skipper MS Dhoni in action once more.

The 43-year-old has been a stalwart for CSK over the years, and many expected the IPL 2024 to be his final year with the franchise. However, there have been reports that Chennai could retain Dhoni ahead of the auction.

However, the decision to retain Dhoni has not been set in stone as of yet. Recently, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan came forward and talked about MS Dhoni’s retention status ahead of the auction.

“We also want Dhoni to play in the CSK team. But Dhoni has not confirmed it to us yet. Dhoni said, 'I will tell you before October 31.' We hope that he will play,” Kasi Viswanathan told Sports Vikatan.

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October 31 deadline to name retentions

It is worth noting that MS Dhoni could heavily benefit from the rules set in place by the BCCI for the retention. According to the new rules, the teams are allowed to retain former Indian internationals at the uncapped base price of INR 4 cr given that they have not played international cricket in the last five years, which is true in the case of MS Dhoni.

Interestingly, the various franchises have only until October 31 to announce their retentions ahead of the auction. It is expected that the mega auction will be held in the latter stages of November 2024 and it has been reported that the marquee event will be held in Riyadh.

Also Read: Riyadh likely to host IPL 2025 mega auction

With retentions being made by then, the teams will look to get the best players in their squad for the new season of the IPL.