CSK CEO on Dhoni’s Future: ‘He Will Decide, We Won’t Interfere’

After the recent game at Chinnaswamy Stadium where Chennai Super Kings lost to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the final over, there was no indication from MS Dhoni about retiring, according to his franchise. Despite ongoing speculation about Dhoni's future, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan stated that there have been no talks regarding the matter.

Viswanathan emphasized that there were no discussions in the dressing room concerning Dhoni's future. He mentioned that neither has the franchise inquired about it, nor has Dhoni provided any insights. Viswanathan asserted that when Dhoni makes a decision, he will inform the team, and until then, they will refrain from interference.

Following CSK's failure to reach the playoffs, it's reported that Dhoni departed for Ranchi, and it's understood that he may be traveling overseas. Despite undergoing knee surgery in May 2023, Dhoni participated in all 14 games this season, displaying his ability to hit the ball aggressively.

Both head coach Stephen Fleming and batting coach Mike Hussey affirmed that Dhoni's prowess in hitting remains intact, and there are no concerns regarding his fitness. However, Dhoni's decision to retire or continue playing might hinge on the BCCI's players' retention rule, which will be determined before the next season's auction.

Before the 2022 player auctions, Dhoni transitioned from the top pay bracket to the second, currently earning Rs 12 crore, with Ravindra Jadeja being the highest at Rs 16 crore. With a new team to be assembled, whether Dhoni remains a major part of the auction purse is yet to be seen.

Ahead of this year's IPL, Dhoni relinquished the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad, with Fleming stating that this decision was made to groom Gaikwad for the role. Dhoni's future as a player will heavily rely on his fitness, as he had to limit his movements due to a strain, particularly while running between wickets. Consequently, Dhoni restricted his role as a finisher to the final overs, unless compelled otherwise.