‘Not sure’ on MS Dhoni’s continuation as an uncapped player: CSK CEO makes big revelation

New Delhi: Even as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has brought back the uncapped player rule ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 mega auction, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kashi Viswanathan has revealed that the franchise is not certain to uphold the myth. MS Dhoni as an uncapped player. Many believe that the BCCI’s restoration of the uncapped rule is specifically for Dhoni as it will help CSK retain their former captain without hurting their overall purse.

Under the uncapped player rule, an Indian player who has retired from international cricket and has been without a central contract for at least five years prior to the relevant season is considered uncapped in the auction. The clause allows CSK to retain their former captain Dhoni as an uncapped player since his international retirement in 2020.

However, CSK CEO Viswanathan revealed that there is still uncertainty regarding Dhoni’s retention and they may not use the rule for him. Viswanathan revealed that he had to discuss future activities with Dhoni before taking a call on his future. He insisted that CSK wanted Dhoni to continue playing, but the final decision rested on the shoulders of the wicketkeeper-batsman.

“We don’t know for sure at this stage. We may not even use it for MS Dhoni. It is too early to comment on this as we have not held discussions with him,” Kashi Viswanathan was quoted as saying by Times of India.

“Dhoni is in the US and we are yet to hold talks. Now I’m traveling this week so there may be some discussions in the coming week. So there is a possibility of some clarity. We hope he plays, but it’s a call for Dhoni himself,” he added.

Will CSK keep MS Dhoni ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction?

Despite Viswanathan’s recent comments, CSK is likely to retain Dhoni ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction as the five-time champions have requested the BCCI to restore the uncapped player rule. Dhoni has also reportedly agreed to stay in the lowest possible retention bracket if he is to continue playing, which will allow the franchise to go into the mega auction with a healthy purse.

Dhoni has been synonymous with CSK’s success in the IPL and despite retiring from international cricket a long time ago he remains indispensable to the team due to his leadership qualities and finishing prowess. While fans want the wicketkeeper-batsman to continue for another season, CSK will also be hoping to hold on to their former captain and give him a proper send-off.