CSK had its worst season ever in IPL 2025. For the first time, the team finished last on the points table. This poor performance has started big discussions about MS Dhoni’s future.
Many cricket experts are now asking tough questions about Dhoni. Some believe he should retire from IPL cricket completely. The debate has divided fans and cricket lovers across India.
Murali Kartik’s Strong Words Against Dhoni
Former Indian player Murali Kartik spoke harshly about MS Dhoni recently. He said Dhoni has “overstayed your welcome” in the IPL. Kartik believes Dhoni should quit cricket and step aside now.
“As much as the world loves Dhoni and as much as certain things we don’t want to end, a day has to come when they have to go. Sometimes what happens is that you don’t want to be pushed, isn’t it? Sometimes, you don’t want even the ones who love you to actually say, ‘You have overstayed your welcome’. Even if it’s MS Dhoni or whoever, just think about it,” Kartik said.
Kartik praised Dhoni’s past achievements and called him a legend. But he said emotions should not decide team selections anymore. The former cricketer wants younger players to get more chances.
Kartik thinks CSK needs fresh leadership for the coming seasons. He believes Dhoni’s presence stops new captains from growing properly. The team must plan for the future without their old captain.
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Ruturaj Gaikwad started as captain but got injured during the tournament. Dhoni took over captaincy duties again in the middle of the season. But even his return could not save the team’s fortunes.
MS Dhoni’s Poor Individual Performance
Dhoni batted very low in the batting order this season. He could not finish close games like he used to. His batting average dropped significantly compared to previous IPL seasons.
Many cricket watchers noticed Dhoni looked slower behind the stumps. His reflexes seemed to have declined with age and time. The 43-year-old player struggled to keep up with modern cricket.
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Dhoni refused to bat higher up the order when needed. This decision cost CSK several very close matches. Cricket experts criticized this approach from the experienced captain.
Future of CSK Leadership
Kartik wants Ruturaj Gaikwad to become CSK’s permanent captain next season. He believes Gaikwad deserves a proper chance to lead. The young player should not live in Dhoni’s shadow anymore.
CSK management must choose between fan emotions and team success. Dhoni remains very popular among Chennai fans who call him “Thala”. But popularity alone cannot win cricket matches in modern IPL.
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Dhoni’s Own Statement About Future
After CSK’s final match, Dhoni spoke about his IPL future. He said he needs 6-8 months to decide about playing. Dhoni wants to check his fitness before making any announcements.
This statement kept fans hoping for his return next year. But cricket experts want him to make a clear decision. The uncertainty affects CSK’s planning for the upcoming IPL auction.
