Legendary Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni has hinted at continuing his illustrious career in the Indian Premier League (IPL) beyond 2025. The 43-year-old, who has led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to four IPL titles, expressed his desire to play for “the next few years” and maintain his fitness for the grueling tournament.
Dhoni’s comments come amidst speculation about his future in the IPL. He had previously handed over the CSK captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the 2024 season. However, his continued presence in the team would be a major boost for the franchise and the tournament as a whole.
“I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I am able to play,” Dhoni said at a promotional event. “When you play cricket like a professional sport, it becomes difficult to enjoy it 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’s words suggest that he is not only targeting the 2025 IPL season but also the subsequent three-year cycle after the mega auction. He emphasized the need to stay fit for nine months to prepare for the two-and-a-half-month IPL season.
“I have to keep myself fit for nine months, so that I can play two and a half months of IPL. You need to plan it out, but at the same time chill a bit,” Dhoni said.
With his last appearance for Team India being over five years ago, Dhoni can be retained by CSK as an uncapped player at a price of only Rs 4 crore. This is due to the revival of a rule that was previously removed in 2021.
Dhoni’s continued presence in the IPL would not only benefit CSK but also the tournament itself. As one of the most iconic and successful players in IPL history, his presence would add star power and excitement to the competition.
