The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend MS Dhoni has hinted he might keep playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the 2025 season. Dhoni shared that he wants to enjoy his last few years of cricket, just as the IPL 2025 retention deadline approaches.
There’s been a lot of talk about Dhoni’s future in the IPL. CSK could retain him as an uncapped player for just Rs 4 crore, as he last played for India five years ago.
The IPL governing council recently brought back a rule that was removed in 2021, which allows this option.
At a recent event for Rigi, Dhoni spoke about his wish to keep playing cricket a bit longer. Dhoni mentioned that it can be tough to enjoy the game because of all the pressure.
“I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I am able to play,” Dhoni said at the event for software brand Rigi, where he’s a brand ambassador, as reported by the Times of India.
“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,” he added.
The legendary wicketkeeper-batsman passed on CSK’s captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad before IPL 2024. Under his leadership, CSK won five titles. Last season, they finished fifth, just missing the playoffs because of net run rate (NRR).
Dhoni stressed the need to stay fit for nine months to play in the two-and-a-half-month IPL season. He explained that this requires careful planning, with some time to relax as well.
“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.
Dhoni also shared details about his training routine. He explained that he trains for 15 to 25 days then takes a break for 15 to 20 days. This routine helps him stay sharp while enjoying his favorite foods, though he follows a balanced diet during training.
