Dhoni's IPL Decision Confirmed As CSK Make Surprise No. 1 Retention Choice

The legendary MS Dhoni all but confirmed his attention to continue playing cricket in the Indian Premier League (IPL), as he dropped a subtle hint over his participation in the T20 league. When Chennai Super Kings (CSK) were approached for a reaction, the franchise's CEO Kasi Viswanathan also said that they are happy to see Dhoni being ready for another season of the IPL. What follows next is a call from Dhoni to the franchise owner N Srinivasan to finalise the retention list ahead of the IPL 2025 season.

However, what has also been reported that skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad isn't the No. 1 retention choice for CSK, but rather all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, who quit T20 internationals after India's T20 World Cup triumph this year.

"When he is ready, what else (do) we want. We are happy," franchise CEO Kasi Viswanathan told Cricbuzz on Saturday.

During an event, Dhoni had said that he wants to enjoy the last few years of cricket that he has left in him.

"I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I am able to play," Dhoni was quoted as saying. "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. 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."

As far as CSK's retention list goes, Ravindra Jadeja is followed by skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad at No. 2 spot while pacer Matheesha Pathirana has agreed to be the No. 3 choice retention. Two players among Shivam Dube, Devon Conway and Samir Rizvi are likely to be retained by the franchise as well.