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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has recently announced significant changes to the Indian Premier League (IPL) retention rules, sparking widespread discussion among fans and franchises alike. One of the most talked-about aspects is the new classification of players, particularly how it could affect legendary captain MS Dhoni and his future with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
New IPL Retention Rules Explained
On September 28, the IPL Media Advisory outlined that a capped Indian player will be deemed uncapped if they have not played in the starting XI for any international format (Test, ODI, T20I) over the last five calendar years or do not hold a Central Contract with the BCCI. This rule is particularly relevant for players like Dhoni, who has not participated in international cricket since the 2019 ODI World Cup.
The return of this rule, which had been in place since the inaugural season but was removed in 2021, allows franchises like CSK to retain star players at a fraction of their potential market value. For instance, if CSK decides to retain Dhoni as an uncapped player, they would only need to pay Rs 4 crores per season—a significant saving for a player of his caliber.
CSK’s Dilemma: To Retain or Not?
Despite the favorable conditions for retaining Dhoni, CSK’s management remains uncertain about employing this rule. In a conversation with The Times of India, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan stated, “We are not sure at this stage. We might not even use it for MS Dhoni. It’s still too early to comment on this because we haven’t had discussions with him.”
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Dhoni has recently returned to India after spending time in the United States and is now back in Ranchi. With his return, there are expectations that discussions regarding his future with CSK will take place soon. “Dhoni was in the US and we haven’t had discussions yet. Now I am traveling this week so there is a possibility of some discussions in the coming week,” he noted.
The Importance of MS Dhoni for CSK
MS Dhoni, affectionately known as “Thala” by CSK fans, has been an integral part of the franchise since its inception in 2008. Under his leadership, CSK has won five IPL titles, making him one of the most successful captains in league history. His experience and strategic acumen have been invaluable assets for younger players within the squad.
Despite turning 43 in July 2024 and facing injury concerns, Dhoni’s presence continues to resonate with fans and players alike. His ability to perform under pressure was evident during IPL 2024, where he showcased glimpses of his old self despite limited game time.
As discussions about his future loom, many speculate that if Dhoni decides to play another season, he may opt for the lowest salary category to allow CSK more financial flexibility for other players. The franchise is also keen on retaining key players like Ravindra Jadeja and Ruturaj Gaikwad while potentially keeping their iconic former captain at a reduced cost.
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