'I just want to enjoy' - MS Dhoni drops huge hint on IPL 2025 participation

There have been a lot of speculations over the last few years about MS Dhoni's retirement from the sport as he has had his struggles with injuries. However, the talismanic cricketer has overcome all hurdles and entertained fans during the Indian Premier League (IPL) with his flamboyant batting and exhilarating wicketkeeping. Last season, he handed captaincy of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to Ruturaj Gaikwad and played some whirlwind cameos down the order for the five-time champions.

Last month, the IPL Governing Council revived an old rule which would allow CSK to retain Dhoni as an uncapped player ahead of the 2025 edition of the cash-rich league. However, there has been no confirmation from the franchise regarding the player's availability for the impending season.

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During his appearance at a promotional event, the 43-year-old spoke about his ambitions to continue playing as he asserted that there are still “a few years of cricket” left in him.

“I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I am able to play,” the former India captain said at a promotional event for Rigi.

After retiring from international cricket in August 2020, Dhoni only plays competitive cricket in the IPL. As per the new retention rules, the Super Kings have the chance to retain Dhoni for Rs 4 crore. This would allow the Men in Yellow to retain a major chunk of their purse to fill the remaining slots in the team.

I have to keep myself fit: MS Dhoni

Dhoni talked about the challenges of playing professional cricket. He also revealed how he keeps himself fit to play in the IPL in spite of being away from the sport throughout the year.

“In our childhood, we used to go out and to play at 4pm and enjoy the game. But when you play professional sport, it becomes difficult to enjoy cricket, just like a game. That’s what I want to do. It’s not easy. The emotions keep coming, the commitments are there. I want to enjoy the game for the next few years,” Dhoni said.

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“I have to keep myself fit for nine months so that I can play two and a half months of IPL. I have kept it very simple. I will train for 15, 20, 25 days, then take off for 15-20 days, so it really helps me be in the groove,” the former Indiac captain added.