Chennai Super Kings (CSK) sparked excitement among fans on October 29 by teasing their potential retentions with a cryptic social media post. The franchise invited fans to vote on which players they would like retained ahead of the upcoming mega-auction, using emojis in a way that hinted at key players.
Fans quickly decoded the clues, with emojis such as a helicopter, kiwi, and rocket seemingly alluding to MS Dhoni, Rachin Ravindra, and Matheesha Pathirana. This post has nearly confirmed that CSK’s iconic captain, Dhoni, may return for one more IPL season. Although Dhoni, now 43, handed over the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad last season and played a supportive role in the lower order, he hinted at a potential return for IPL 2025. Recently, Dhoni expressed his desire to “enjoy whatever last few years of cricket” he can, echoing childhood memories of playing for the joy of the game.
With the October 31 deadline for retention lists fast approaching, Dhoni’s future remains a focal point for CSK fans. A new rule allows players who retired from international cricket over five years ago to be classified as uncapped, which could favour Dhoni’s retention.
CSK’s CEO, Kasi Viswanathan, voiced optimism about Dhoni’s return. Dhoni has previously shifted his role to allow younger players like Ravindra Jadeja and Shivam Dube more opportunities, stating, “If others are doing their job well, why do I need to come up the order?”