MS Dhoni clears all air about IPL 2025 participation; huge relief for CSK

Legendary India captain MS Dhoni has finally cleared the air about his participation in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season, which has brought relief to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and their fans.

The legendary captain's decision to continue playing has made CSK's retention strategy a little clear with the crucial deadline date nearing. While the announcement wasn't entirely unexpected, the franchise had been awaiting formal confirmation from their iconic player.

"When he is ready, what else (do) we want. We are happy," franchise CEO Kasi Viswanathan told Cricbuzz.

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MSD to be retained under 'uncapped' category

The five-time IPL champions are now focused on finalizing their retention list, with Dhoni expected to have a crucial conversation with franchise owner N Srinivasan in the coming days. Interestingly, Dhoni will be retained as an uncapped player, following the IPL Governing Council's revival of a previously scrapped rule.

According to the regulation, Indian players who haven't featured in international cricket's starting XI or held a BCCI central contract in the past five years can be classified as uncapped, resulting in a retention cost of just INR four crore.

CSK's retention strategy appears to be taking clear shape. All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is likely to be the first retention at INR 18 crore, followed by the newly appointed captain Ruturaj Gaikwad at INR 14 crore. Sri Lankan pace sensation Matheesha Pathirana has reportedly agreed to be the third retention at INR 11 crore, with his manager recently finalizing the deal in Chennai.

The franchise still has room for two more retentions under the maximum limit of six players, with a cap of five capped players. The management is currently evaluating options including Shivam Dube, Devon Conway, and the uncapped Sameer Rizvi. The final decisions will be made during the upcoming discussion between Srinivasan and Dhoni, who is expected to return to Ranchi from Goa shortly.