MS Dhoni's IPL 2025 role: Experts discuss CSK's post-Dhoni era planning

The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is a few weeks away, and franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and their most iconic player, MS Dhoni, are once again in the spotlight. The 43-year-old is the most influential figure in the CSK camp, despite stepping down from captaincy ahead of the IPL 2024 season. With talks around his future, former cricketers have spoken about what to expect from the legendary wicketkeeper-batter in the upcoming season.

CSK narrowly missed out on the playoffs last season, finishing fifth in IPL 2024 after losing their final league match. However, the five-time champions have begun a 10-day preparatory camp at their High-Performance Centre in Navalur, Tamil Nadu. Notably, fans recently spotted a Morse code message on Dhoni’s t-shirt when he arrived in Chennai that allegedly read “One Last Time.” This has led to immense discussions about whether IPL 2025 could be Dhoni’s last season. Former opener Aakash Chopra believes that CSK has already begun planning for a post-Dhoni era. 

“I think the planning for the post-Dhoni era has begun. Because now we can see that a time is coming when Dhoni as a player will not be a part of that group,” Chopra said exclusively on JioHotstar.

Credit to him for encouraging millions of fans: AB de Villiers

Furthermore, the former India skipper, Anil Kumble, mentioned the possibility of the veteran playing a lesser role this season, with Ruturaj leading the side. Interestingly, just like last season, Kumble pointed out that the role of "impact rule" may come into play for MS Dhoni's involvement in the team while guiding youngsters along the way.

Also Read: 'The bond between MS Dhoni and Chennai is truly heartwarming' - Former cricketers praise legacy of India legend in IPL

“With Ruturaj leading the side, this could be a season where Dhoni may not even take the field. He might still be part of the squad, thanks to retention rules, and with the impact player rule, his presence can still be valuable without playing every game,” Kumble added.

Apart from the Indian legend, the former South African skipper AB de Villiers too chimed in and put forth his thoughts. He emphasized Dhoni’s influence on cricket fans and how he has gone on to motivate a young generation of cricketers to take up the sport.

“Gotta give credit to him for encouraging millions of fans out there to watch the game of cricket and to be inspired. It's because of guys like him who have really carried the game well over a very long period of time. Touch wood, hopefully, it continues for a few more years to come,” De Villiers said.