Former India and Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni remains coy about his IPL future, saying he will take a call once there is more clarity on the next edition's rules and regulations.
Dhoni, whose playing future has been the subject of intense speculation, will turn 44 next year. He retired from international cricket in 2020, one year after he played his final game for India. However, he has been playing the IPL every year, and was the CSK captain until before the IPL 2024, when he handed over the reins to Ruturaj Gaikwad.
At an event in Hyderabad, Dhoni spoke about the topic once again, saying that he had not made a definitive call as yet.
"There is a lot of time for it," Dhoni said. "We have to see what decision they take on player retention etc. Right now, the ball is not in our court."
Dhoni's comments came alongside ongoing discussions between IPL teams over the upcoming season. There's reportedly debate over whether the tournament should have a mega auction or not, as well as the future of the Impact Player, both of which could influence Dhoni's participation.
Sunrisers Hyderabad CEO Kavya Maran has called for the IPL to ban overseas players who withdraw from the tournament despite securing a contract.
— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) August 1, 2024
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"Once the rules and regulations get formalised, I will take a call," Dhoni continued, "but needs to be in the best interest of the team."
Dhoni has been front and centre of the CSK brand since the first season in 2008, and enjoys fanatical following in the city of Chennai, the team's home base, as well as around the country. The joint-most successful IPL captain with five titles, Dhoni's decision to hand over leadership to Gaikwad was seen as a significant step in Super Kings' transition towards life after Dhoni.
At least since the 2020 season, there has been speculation over Dhoni's future as a player, with the World Cup-winning captain keeping things close to his chest, before returning in the yellow kit after no competitive cricket between seasons. What has made things more complicated is his long-standing knee injury that has affected his game, allowing him to only bat for a limited period in the innings.
It remains to be seen when Dhoni takes a definitive call on his future. Until then, 'Thala' fans will keep hoping.
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