'Impact Player rule doesn't apply on MS Dhoni’ – Virender Sehwag makes massive comment on CSK skipper's future

With the onset of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, there has been only one major talking point that has been common in almost all discussions among fans and cricket experts alike. That burning topic is none other than MS Dhoni's potential retirement from the coveted league. Many cricket fans and pundits feel that it is certainly going to be the last season for the veteran Chennai Super Kings skipper. However, on the other side of the spectrum, some people certainly feel that with the introduction of the 'Impact Player' rule, Dhoni can prolong his cricket career.

Although the CSK skipper, recently, spilt the beans on his retirement speculations by saying that he will take some time to consider his future. Interestingly enough, the Ranchi-born remained mum on whether he will play in the competition the following year. In the same vein, the former Indian opener Virender Sehwag, who represented Team India while MS Dhoni served as captain, shared his views on the future of the CSK captain. The legendary opener opined that the 41-year-old will either retire or play in the first team going forward but will not play as an Impact substitute. 

Furthermore, Sehwag also claimed that it was not that hard to play cricket while being in their 40s, given the cricketer is fit. The veteran Indian player also pointed out the fact that Dhoni has hardly played 40-50 balls in this season given the position that the former Indian skipper has batted in the IPL 2023.

“Impact Player rule doesn't apply to MS Dhoni. Because he's playing only for captaincy. He has to stay in the ground for captaincy. The Impact Player rule is for someone who doesn't field but bats, or a bowler who doesn't need to bat. Dhoni has to field 20 overs; if he's not the captain, he won't even play as Impact Player. Then, you will see him as mentor or coach or Director of Cricket,” Sehwag told Cricbuzz.

With the Impact Player rule, It will keep prolonging his career: Bravo

Meanwhile, in a rather contrasting view, the Chennai Super Kings' bowling coach, Dwayne Bravo, recently, shared his views on the future of MS Dhoni with the franchise. The legendary West Indian believes that the new Impact Player rule will help the legendary stumper-batter to spend lesser time on the field. Consequently, this rule will play an advantage for the CSK skipper and extend his cricket career further.

"100 per cent. Especially, with the Impact Player rule. It will keep prolonging his career," Bravo had told Star Sports after CSK had qualified for the final last week.

Notably, the MS-Dhoni-led side will cross swords with Gujarat Titans on Monday, May 29, after the grand IPL final got re-scheduled due to incessant rain. Chennai Super Kings will aim to lift their fifth IPL trophy while the hosts will look to defend their IPL trophy to claim their second back-to-back title.