MS Dhoni’s IPL Future Secured with Rule Change, Says Mohammad Kaif
Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has hailed a recent rule change in the Indian Premier League (IPL) that could extend MS Dhoni’s illustrious career beyond 2024. The new rule classifies players who have not represented India for five years as “uncapped,” regardless of their past achievements. This reclassification makes Dhoni eligible to play as an uncapped player in the 2025 IPL season, despite his retirement from international cricket in 2019.
Kaif, speaking on Star Sports, expressed his support for the rule change, citing Dhoni’s enduring impact on the game. “You will get the chance to see MS Dhoni again. He is fit, batting at a strike rate of 200, keeping well, and that is why I believe the rules will keep changing till he wishes to play. If he wants to play in the IPL, he will play. He is such a big player, such a big match-winner, and has been a leader for CSK,” Kaif said.
Kaif also dismissed concerns about Dhoni’s financial status, noting that the former CSK captain is not motivated by money. “I believe the rule has been changed rightly. And Dhoni himself says, ‘I don’t need money, I’ll adjust to whatever the team decides.’ Even if he gets 4 crore as an uncapped player (Paise chahe 4 crore mil rahe ho as an uncapped player), it doesn’t matter to him. It sounds strange to say because 4 crore isn’t much for him. Everyone knows the rule has been changed for Dhoni sahab, and why not, you will want to change the rule for a player like Dhoni.”
The IPL governing council approved the rule change at its recent meeting in Bengaluru, allowing teams to retain up to six players before the auction. This move has generated excitement among fans, as it opens the door for Dhoni’s potential return as an uncapped player. With the auction purse increased to Rs 120 crore, the new rule not only enhances teams’ strategic options but also gives CSK a chance to retain their iconic leader.
