MS Dhoni, the heart and soul of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chennai-super-kings">Chennai Super Kings</a>, remains the only active cricketing legend that IPL fans eagerly await each season. As the 2025 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">Indian Premier League</a> approaches, the 43-year-old stalwart has once again defied age with his exceptional fitness and rigorous training.
Recently, former cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/harbhajan-singh">Harbhajan Singh</a> met Dhoni at a wedding and was left in awe of his physical condition. Intrigued by the CSK captain&rsquo;s dedication, Harbhajan asked how he manages to keep up with the demands of professional cricket at his age. Dhoni&rsquo;s response was as classic as his finishing shots: &ldquo;Yes, it&rsquo;s tough, but I love doing it. As long as the hunger is there, I will keep going.&rdquo;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-eye-catching-net-worth-can-buy-92-bugatti-veyrons-waterfront-palace-in-sydney-and-more-8864326">Virat Kohli's eye-popping net worth: Can buy 92 Bugatti Veyrons, waterfront palace in Sydney and more</a>
According to Harbhajan, Dhoni has been grinding hard in Chennai ahead of the IPL, spending 2-3 hours in the nets daily, ensuring his batting flow and timing remain sharp. Even at 43, he remains the first to arrive at practice and the last to leave.
<h2>'MSD's hands remains as quick as ever'</h2>
Former cricketer Aakash Chopra shed light on why Dhoni prefers batting lower in the order. While many fans urge him to bat higher, Dhoni is honest about his abilities&mdash;he knows he can&rsquo;t sustain long innings but thrives in pressure situations where his finishing prowess comes into play.
Chopra also praised Dhoni&rsquo;s legendary wicket-keeping skills, claiming &ldquo;If the ball goes to him, you&rsquo;re out 9.5 times out of 10.&rdquo; Even after years away from international cricket, Dhoni&rsquo;s hands remain as quick as ever.
As the IPL 2025 season nears, Dhoni&rsquo;s dedication and hunger prove that age is just a number when passion drives excellence. Will 'Thala' lead CSK to yet another title? The countdown begins!

Sports, Cricket: As the 2025 Indian Premier League approaches, the 43-year-old stalwart has once again defied age with his exceptional fitness and rigorous training

MS Dhoni, the heart and soul of Chennai Super Kings, remains the only active cricketing legend that IPL fans eagerly await each season. As the 2025 Indian Premier League approaches, the 43-year-old stalwart has once again defied age with his exceptional fitness and rigorous training. Recently, former cricketer Harbhajan Singh met Dhoni at a wedding and was left in awe of his physical condition. Intrigued by the CSK captain’s dedication, Harbhajan asked how he manages to keep up with the demands of professional cricket at his age. Dhoni’s response was as classic as his finishing shots: “Yes, it’s tough, but I love doing it. As long as the hunger is there, I will keep going.” Also Read: Virat Kohli's eye-popping net worth: Can buy 92 Bugatti Veyrons, waterfront palace in Sydney and more According to Harbhajan, Dhoni has been grinding hard in Chennai ahead of the IPL, spending 2-3 hours in the nets daily, ensuring his batting flow and timing remain sharp. Even at 43, he remains the first to arrive at practice and the last to leave. 'MSD's hands remains as quick as ever' Former cricketer Aakash Chopra shed light on why Dhoni prefers batting lower in the order. While many fans urge him to bat higher, Dhoni is honest about his abilities—he knows he can’t sustain long innings but thrives in pressure situations where his finishing prowess comes into play. Chopra also praised Dhoni’s legendary wicket-keeping skills, claiming “If the ball goes to him, you’re out 9.5 times out of 10.” Even after years away from international cricket, Dhoni’s hands remain as quick as ever. As the IPL 2025 season nears, Dhoni’s dedication and hunger prove that age is just a number when passion drives excellence. Will 'Thala' lead CSK to yet another title? The countdown begins!

IPL 2025 | MS Dhoni at 43: Still fit, still fearless, still CSK’s king!

Who is that? Is that Ranbir Kapoor from Animal or Indian cricketer MS Dhoni in a getup inspired by Ranbir&rsquo;s role in the film?&nbsp;
A new advertisement in now taking the social media by a storm as MS Dhoni is seen in a film-like advert put together by Animal and Kabir Singh director Sandeep Reddy Vanga. Both MS Dhoni and Sandeep Reddy feature in the video ad for a brand EMotorad, showcasing their latest e-cycle model, the Doodle V3.&nbsp;
<h2>MS Dhoni in an Animal-inspired ad for e-cycle</h2>
The campaign features Dhoni in a high-energy, film-inspired setting, recreating scenes of the film Animal. This ad not only highlights the e-cycle's features like its foldability and fat tires, but also brings to life elements from the film Animal which evoked a mixed bag of reactions from netizens who watched the film when it was released in 2023.&nbsp;
MS Dhoni is seen riding the e-cycle in style, with hair flowing in the wind, as he clenches a toothpick in his mouth &ndash; much like Ranbir Kapoor&rsquo;s character in the film, who only puffed on cigarettes.&nbsp;
Towards the end of the video, Dhoni is seen standing next to a wall of e-cycles displayed on them as he gestures to the camera.
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/village-roadshow-goes-bankrupt-film-company-produced-films-like-joker-the-matrix-8864534" aria-label="Village Roadshow goes bankrupt: Film company produced films like Joker, The Matrix.....">Village Roadshow goes bankrupt: Film company produced films like Joker, The Matrix.....</a></h2>
Fans found the video in good taste with many congratulating the makers for roping in MSD for the part. Check out some reactions here:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8e9yb7y-h0de8u35-u79620cz">
Dhoni be like Come and hold my 5 trophies 🔥🔥🔥 <a href="https://t.co/NBtOyGiwUG">pic.twitter.com/NBtOyGiwUG</a>
&mdash; Master Wayne🦇 (@Wayne_tweeps) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wayne_tweeps/status/1901903751272870231?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8e9yslu-nbw90bkv-surp3ph3">
Mahendra Singh Dhoni is really looking awesome in this ad, seeing his hair reminds me of the old Dhoni cut🥰🔥
&mdash; Rajneesh Yadav 🧢 (@rajneeshy165) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajneeshy165/status/1901903230675914950?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8e9z985-h3zvm2i0-2gitmirq">
MS Dhoni as Ranbir Kapoor's ANIMAL role in an recent Ad🥵<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/C5U5Rr0gIr">pic.twitter.com/C5U5Rr0gIr</a>
&mdash; EleMent 🎯 (@SigmaEleMent) <a href="https://twitter.com/SigmaEleMent/status/1901904718647218488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Hilarious🤣 MSD &amp; Sandeep Vanga for Emotorad commercial. Animal cult🔥🔥 <a href="https://t.co/1HbKV8XjtX">pic.twitter.com/1HbKV8XjtX</a>
&mdash; Sasta Tarantino (@Sparkhi01) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sparkhi01/status/1901903286346895652?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/dragon-ott-release-date-out-when-and-where-to-watch-pradeep-ranganathans-film-8864697" aria-label="'What&hellip; coming so early?' Netizens question Pradeep Ranganathan's Dragon OTT release">'What&hellip; coming so early?' Netizens question Pradeep Ranganathan's Dragon OTT release</a></h2>

Trending Entertainment MS Dhoni looks unrecognisable in a new film by Sandeep Reddy Vanga for EMotorad brand's new e-cycle. MSD dons Ranbir Kapoor's get up from Animal film.

Who is that? Is that Ranbir Kapoor from Animal or Indian cricketer MS Dhoni in a getup inspired by Ranbir’s role in the film? A new advertisement in now taking the social media by a storm as MS Dhoni is seen in a film-like advert put together by Animal and Kabir Singh director Sandeep Reddy Vanga. Both MS Dhoni and Sandeep Reddy feature in the video ad for a brand EMotorad, showcasing their latest e-cycle model, the Doodle V3. MS Dhoni in an Animal-inspired ad for e-cycle The campaign features Dhoni in a high-energy, film-inspired setting, recreating scenes of the film Animal. This ad not only highlights the e-cycle's features like its foldability and fat tires, but also brings to life elements from the film Animal which evoked a mixed bag of reactions from netizens who watched the film when it was released in 2023. MS Dhoni is seen riding the e-cycle in style, with hair flowing in the wind, as he clenches a toothpick in his mouth – much like Ranbir Kapoor’s character in the film, who only puffed on cigarettes. Towards the end of the video, Dhoni is seen standing next to a wall of e-cycles displayed on them as he gestures to the camera. Village Roadshow goes bankrupt: Film company produced films like Joker, The Matrix..... Fans found the video in good taste with many congratulating the makers for roping in MSD for the part. Check out some reactions here: Dhoni be like Come and hold my 5 trophies 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/NBtOyGiwUG — Master Wayne🦇 (@Wayne_tweeps) March 18, 2025 Mahendra Singh Dhoni is really looking awesome in this ad, seeing his hair reminds me of the old Dhoni cut🥰🔥 — Rajneesh Yadav 🧢 (@rajneeshy165) March 18, 2025 MS Dhoni as Ranbir Kapoor's ANIMAL role in an recent Ad🥵#MSDhoni pic.twitter.com/C5U5Rr0gIr — EleMent 🎯 (@SigmaEleMent) March 18, 2025 Hilarious🤣 MSD & Sandeep Vanga for Emotorad commercial. Animal cult🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/1HbKV8XjtX — Sasta Tarantino (@Sparkhi01) March 18, 2025 'What… coming so early?' Netizens question Pradeep Ranganathan's Dragon OTT release

Wow, is that MS Dhoni in Sandeep Reddy Vanga's new film for this brand?

Former India spinner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ravichandran-ashwin" rel="dofollow">Ravichandran Ashwin</a> made a startling revelation ahead of the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League. After rejoining Chennai Super Kings (CSK), where it all began for him in this cash-rich league, Ashwin, who&rsquo;d be playing alongside his former India and CSK captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ms-dhoni" rel="dofollow">MS Dhoni</a>, revealed that he invited Dhoni for his 100th Test earlier last year in Dharamsala (against England), wanting him to hand over the memento, but that failed to get materialised as Dhoni couldn&rsquo;t make it.
Ashwin added he wanted that Test to be his last, but because MS failed to make it, he continued playing; after the third BGT Test against Australia at the Gabba in December 2025, Ashwin announced his international retirement.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/for-me-it-was-about-surviving-hardik-pandya-on-fans-booing-him-in-ipl-2024-8859443" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;For me, it was about surviving,&rsquo; Hardik Pandya on fans booing him in IPL 2024</a>
Ashwin said even though Dhoni couldn&rsquo;t make it to his 100th Test, how he made up for that by bringing him to CSK was remarkable.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I called MS Dhoni for my 100th Test in Dharamshala to hand over the memento. I wanted to make that my last Test. But he couldn&rsquo;t make it. However, I didn&rsquo;t think he would give me the gift of getting me back to CSK. It&rsquo;s a much better one. So, thank you, MS, for doing it. I&rsquo;m glad to be here,&rdquo; Ashwin said during a book launch event on Sunday.
Further talking about his homecoming in the IPL, Ashwin said CSK is a wonderful place to be and that he&rsquo;s happy to complete a full circle.
"Most importantly, I have come back to CSK not as someone who has achieved so much but as someone who has gone through the full circle and wants to come back here and enjoy just like before. It is a wonderful place to be," he added.
<h2>Ashwin&rsquo;s return to CSK</h2>
After Rajasthan Royals decided against retaining him ahead of the mega auction late last year, CSK chased its former match winner, eventually bagging his service for INR 9.75 crore.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/massive-boost-for-rajasthan-royals-as-star-indian-duo-joins-squad-ahead-of-ipl-2025-sanju-samson-yashasvi-jaiswal-8859055" rel="dofollow">Massive boost for Rajasthan Royals as star Indian duo joins squad ahead of IPL 2025</a>
Ashwin's return to the Yellow Army completes the famous trio of Dhoni, Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja, which once ruled franchise and Indian cricket, taking both to massive heights.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Ravi Ashwin said even though MS Dhoni couldn’t make it to his 100th Test last year, how he made up for that by bringing him to CSK was remarkable.

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin made a startling revelation ahead of the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League. After rejoining Chennai Super Kings (CSK), where it all began for him in this cash-rich league, Ashwin, who’d be playing alongside his former India and CSK captain MS Dhoni, revealed that he invited Dhoni for his 100th Test earlier last year in Dharamsala (against England), wanting him to hand over the memento, but that failed to get materialised as Dhoni couldn’t make it. Ashwin added he wanted that Test to be his last, but because MS failed to make it, he continued playing; after the third BGT Test against Australia at the Gabba in December 2025, Ashwin announced his international retirement. Also read | ‘For me, it was about surviving,’ Hardik Pandya on fans booing him in IPL 2024 Ashwin said even though Dhoni couldn’t make it to his 100th Test, how he made up for that by bringing him to CSK was remarkable. “I called MS Dhoni for my 100th Test in Dharamshala to hand over the memento. I wanted to make that my last Test. But he couldn’t make it. However, I didn’t think he would give me the gift of getting me back to CSK. It’s a much better one. So, thank you, MS, for doing it. I’m glad to be here,” Ashwin said during a book launch event on Sunday. Further talking about his homecoming in the IPL, Ashwin said CSK is a wonderful place to be and that he’s happy to complete a full circle. "Most importantly, I have come back to CSK not as someone who has achieved so much but as someone who has gone through the full circle and wants to come back here and enjoy just like before. It is a wonderful place to be," he added. Ashwin’s return to CSK After Rajasthan Royals decided against retaining him ahead of the mega auction late last year, CSK chased its former match winner, eventually bagging his service for INR 9.75 crore. Also read | Massive boost for Rajasthan Royals as star Indian duo joins squad ahead of IPL 2025 Ashwin's return to the Yellow Army completes the famous trio of Dhoni, Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja, which once ruled franchise and Indian cricket, taking both to massive heights. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Invited MS Dhoni for my 100th Test but…,’ Ravi Ashwin makes a startling revelation

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ms-dhoni" rel="dofollow">MS Dhoni</a> is a cricketing genius for what he did in the game, for what he brings to the game and how he dictates the game. Known to be a cunning mind behind the wickets, Thala, as cricket fans call him has a fan in one of IPL 2025&rsquo;s millionaires -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/venkatesh-iyer" rel="dofollow">Venkatesh Iyer</a> from Kolkata Knight Riders. Reflecting on one of the instances from the last season, Iyer explained how Dhoni&rsquo;s tactics bamboozled him.
During an encounter between the CSK and the KKR the past season, at the Chepauk in Chennai, Iyer got out early on just three in the first innings, with Ravindra Jadeja picking his wicket. However, the setup behind Iyer&rsquo;s dismissal was where he got gobsmacked.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/price-tag-pressure-exists-but-once-youre-kkrs-venkatesh-iyer-ahead-of-ipl-2025-8856015" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Price tag pressure exists but once you&rsquo;re&hellip;,&rsquo; KKR&rsquo;s Venkatesh Iyer ahead of IPL 2025</a>
Explaining in detail what happened in the lead-up to it, Iyer said before the ball on which he got out, Dhoni changed the field, moving a fielder from the deep square leg to the short third, leaving Iyer wondering what was going to happen. And as the worst could have, he found the same fielder on the next ball, leaving him shocked over Dhoni&rsquo;s &lsquo;real captaincy&rsquo;. &nbsp;
&ldquo;Dhoni took out a fielder from deep square leg and placed him at short third, slightly away from the spot where short third usually is. The [very] next ball, I hit straight into short third&rsquo;s hands,&rdquo; Iyer revealed in an interview with The Cricket Monthly.
<h2>How does he do it?</h2>
Intrigued by Dhoni&rsquo;s thoughts, Iyer approached him after the game, questioning how he planned it.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/virat-kohli-hints-at-coming-out-of-t20i-retirement-but-only-on-one-condition-olympics-la28-cricket-8856635" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli hints at coming out of T20I retirement but only on one condition</a>
&ldquo;Post the game, I asked Dhoni why he placed that fielder in that spot and he had a proper answer for it. He was trying to understand the impact of the ball from my bat, the angles. His reading of angles is just out of the world, and he knew that if I hit this shot, it had to go in that direction, so he had a fielder put there. This is being proactive. This is real captaincy: understanding what a batter is doing.
&ldquo;That was the cunning of Dhoni. I could have waited for a couple of balls, but no, the next ball, I hit it there (chuckles), and it just happened. The cameras showed the exact picture of how the field changed and the very next ball I hit there. It is up to the batsman to understand why certain things are being done [on the field],&rdquo; Iyer added.
Meanwhile, Iyer and Dhoni will continue to feature for their respective franchises in IPL 2025. While KKR named Iyer as the new vice-captain, with seasoned campaigner Ajinkya Rahane set to lead the team, MS Dhoni will hog all the limelight but as an uncapped player this time.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: KKR named Iyer the new vice-captain ahead of IPL 2025, while MS Dhoni will continue to hog all the limelight but as an uncapped player this time.

MS Dhoni is a cricketing genius for what he did in the game, for what he brings to the game and how he dictates the game. Known to be a cunning mind behind the wickets, Thala, as cricket fans call him has a fan in one of IPL 2025’s millionaires - Venkatesh Iyer from Kolkata Knight Riders. Reflecting on one of the instances from the last season, Iyer explained how Dhoni’s tactics bamboozled him. During an encounter between the CSK and the KKR the past season, at the Chepauk in Chennai, Iyer got out early on just three in the first innings, with Ravindra Jadeja picking his wicket. However, the setup behind Iyer’s dismissal was where he got gobsmacked. Also read | ‘Price tag pressure exists but once you’re…,’ KKR’s Venkatesh Iyer ahead of IPL 2025 Explaining in detail what happened in the lead-up to it, Iyer said before the ball on which he got out, Dhoni changed the field, moving a fielder from the deep square leg to the short third, leaving Iyer wondering what was going to happen. And as the worst could have, he found the same fielder on the next ball, leaving him shocked over Dhoni’s ‘real captaincy’. “Dhoni took out a fielder from deep square leg and placed him at short third, slightly away from the spot where short third usually is. The [very] next ball, I hit straight into short third’s hands,” Iyer revealed in an interview with The Cricket Monthly. How does he do it? Intrigued by Dhoni’s thoughts, Iyer approached him after the game, questioning how he planned it. Also read | Virat Kohli hints at coming out of T20I retirement but only on one condition “Post the game, I asked Dhoni why he placed that fielder in that spot and he had a proper answer for it. He was trying to understand the impact of the ball from my bat, the angles. His reading of angles is just out of the world, and he knew that if I hit this shot, it had to go in that direction, so he had a fielder put there. This is being proactive. This is real captaincy: understanding what a batter is doing. “That was the cunning of Dhoni. I could have waited for a couple of balls, but no, the next ball, I hit it there (chuckles), and it just happened. The cameras showed the exact picture of how the field changed and the very next ball I hit there. It is up to the batsman to understand why certain things are being done [on the field],” Iyer added. Meanwhile, Iyer and Dhoni will continue to feature for their respective franchises in IPL 2025. While KKR named Iyer as the new vice-captain, with seasoned campaigner Ajinkya Rahane set to lead the team, MS Dhoni will hog all the limelight but as an uncapped player this time. (With inputs from agencies)

‘This is real captaincy’, KKR’s millionaire on how MS Dhoni’s cunningness had him in IPL 2024

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma won their fourth ICC silverware each as India beat New Zealand for its third Champions Trophy title on Sunday (Mar 9) in Dubai, UAE. Virat and Rohit now have the most ICC titles for India, going past MS Dhoni who had three titles to his name.
Virat, before the Champions Trophy 2025, had won 2011 ODI World Cup, 2013 Champions Trophy and T20 World Cup 2024. Rohit, on the other hand, had won 2007 T20 World Cup, 2013 Champions Trophy and T20 World Cup 2024 before winning the Champions Trophy 2025.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-win-champions-trophy-76-and-potm-rohit-kohli-step-up-in-final-as-india-win-consecutive-icc-titles-after-2023-odi-wc-heartbreak-8838021">'76 and POTM': Rohit-Kohli step up in final as India win consecutive ICC titles after 2023 ODI WC heartbreak</a>
MS Dhoni, the most successful India skipper, had won 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. He's still the only skipper to win all three ICC title in white-ball format.
After the heartbreak of 2023 ODI World Cup Final loss against Australia at home - India have now won two back-to-back ICC titles with their most senior players stepping up in the crunch final game.
With the win, India now are the only team in the world cricket history to have won at least two titles in each of the white-ball tournaments - T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy.
They won the ODI World Cups in 1983 (Kapil Dev) and 2011 (MS Dhoni), T20 World Cup in 2007 (MS Dhoni) and 2024 (Rohit Sharma) and Champions Trophy in 2002 (Shared under Sourav Ganguly), 2013 (MS Dhoni) and 2025 (Rohit Sharma).
No other team except Australia has more than three ICC titles. The Kangaroos have won the ODI World Cup in 1987, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2015 and 2023 plus T20 World Cup in 2021 and Champions Trophy in 2006 &amp; 2009.
As for the Champions Trophy, this is the third time India have won this ICC title. They had previously shared it with Sri Lanka in 2002 under Sourav Ganguly and won it in 2013 under Dhoni.

MS Dhoni, the most successful India skipper, had won 2007 T20 WC, 2011 ODI WC and 2013 Champions Trophy. He's still the only skipper to win all three ICC title in white-ball format. Cricket Sports

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma won their fourth ICC silverware each as India beat New Zealand for its third Champions Trophy title on Sunday (Mar 9) in Dubai, UAE. Virat and Rohit now have the most ICC titles for India, going past MS Dhoni who had three titles to his name. Virat, before the Champions Trophy 2025, had won 2011 ODI World Cup, 2013 Champions Trophy and T20 World Cup 2024. Rohit, on the other hand, had won 2007 T20 World Cup, 2013 Champions Trophy and T20 World Cup 2024 before winning the Champions Trophy 2025. Also Read: '76 and POTM': Rohit-Kohli step up in final as India win consecutive ICC titles after 2023 ODI WC heartbreak MS Dhoni, the most successful India skipper, had won 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. He's still the only skipper to win all three ICC title in white-ball format. After the heartbreak of 2023 ODI World Cup Final loss against Australia at home - India have now won two back-to-back ICC titles with their most senior players stepping up in the crunch final game. With the win, India now are the only team in the world cricket history to have won at least two titles in each of the white-ball tournaments - T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy. They won the ODI World Cups in 1983 (Kapil Dev) and 2011 (MS Dhoni), T20 World Cup in 2007 (MS Dhoni) and 2024 (Rohit Sharma) and Champions Trophy in 2002 (Shared under Sourav Ganguly), 2013 (MS Dhoni) and 2025 (Rohit Sharma). No other team except Australia has more than three ICC titles. The Kangaroos have won the ODI World Cup in 1987, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2015 and 2023 plus T20 World Cup in 2021 and Champions Trophy in 2006 & 2009. As for the Champions Trophy, this is the third time India have won this ICC title. They had previously shared it with Sri Lanka in 2002 under Sourav Ganguly and won it in 2013 under Dhoni.

Rohit, Kohli surpass MS Dhoni for most ICC titles by an Indian with Champions Trophy 2025 win

India beat New Zealand by four wickets to clinch the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on Sunday (Mar 9) in Dubai - their second ICC title in as many years. The Rohit Sharma-led team had won T20 World Cup last year after the heartbreak of 2023 ODI World Cup Final where they lost to Australia.
With the win, Rohit became only the second Indian skipper after MS Dhoni to win multiple ICC white-ball titles. Under Dhoni, India had won 2007 T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup 2011 and Champions Trophy 2013. Rohit is behind him with T20 WC 2024 and CT 2025 titles.
The other two ICC titles out of a total seven for India came under Kapil Dev (1983 ODI World Cup) and Sourav Ganguly (2002 Champions Trophy - shared).
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rohit-sharma-dismisses-retirement-rumours-after-dubais-champions-trophy-showdown-8837705">Rohit dismisses retirement rumours after Dubai&rsquo;s Champions Trophy showdown</a>
Rohit was also nominated Player for the Match for scoring 76 in the final on Sunday - becoming only the fourth captain in the history to be named POTM in an ICC ODI tournament final.
Before him, Clive Lloyd (West Indies) in ODI World Cup 1975, skippers Ricky Ponting (Australia) in 2003 ODI World Cup and MS Dhoni (India) in 2011 ODI World Cup had been named POTM in the final of an ICC ODI tournament.
The win marks a great turnaround for India from their disastrous tour of Australia in December 2024 - January 2025 where they lost 1-3 the prestigious five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
This is also India's second consecutive ICC title, which they have won without dropping a single game. Prior to Champions Trophy 2025, they had won T20 World Cup 2024, remaining unbeaten.
In CT 2025, they beat Bangladesh, Pakistan and New Zealand in the group stage before sending Australia packing in the semis. In the final, they beat the Kiwis - the same team which had beaten them in 2000 Champions Trophy Final.

With the win, Rohit became only the second Indian skipper after MS Dhoni to win multiple ICC white-ball titles. He also became only the fourth captain to be named POTM in the ICC title Final. Cricket Sports

India beat New Zealand by four wickets to clinch the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on Sunday (Mar 9) in Dubai - their second ICC title in as many years. The Rohit Sharma-led team had won T20 World Cup last year after the heartbreak of 2023 ODI World Cup Final where they lost to Australia. With the win, Rohit became only the second Indian skipper after MS Dhoni to win multiple ICC white-ball titles. Under Dhoni, India had won 2007 T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup 2011 and Champions Trophy 2013. Rohit is behind him with T20 WC 2024 and CT 2025 titles. The other two ICC titles out of a total seven for India came under Kapil Dev (1983 ODI World Cup) and Sourav Ganguly (2002 Champions Trophy - shared). Also Read: Rohit dismisses retirement rumours after Dubai’s Champions Trophy showdown Rohit was also nominated Player for the Match for scoring 76 in the final on Sunday - becoming only the fourth captain in the history to be named POTM in an ICC ODI tournament final. Before him, Clive Lloyd (West Indies) in ODI World Cup 1975, skippers Ricky Ponting (Australia) in 2003 ODI World Cup and MS Dhoni (India) in 2011 ODI World Cup had been named POTM in the final of an ICC ODI tournament. The win marks a great turnaround for India from their disastrous tour of Australia in December 2024 - January 2025 where they lost 1-3 the prestigious five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy. This is also India's second consecutive ICC title, which they have won without dropping a single game. Prior to Champions Trophy 2025, they had won T20 World Cup 2024, remaining unbeaten. In CT 2025, they beat Bangladesh, Pakistan and New Zealand in the group stage before sending Australia packing in the semis. In the final, they beat the Kiwis - the same team which had beaten them in 2000 Champions Trophy Final.

'A first in 14 years': Rohit does a Dhoni and joins Clive Lloyd, Ricky Ponting in elite list after India win Champions Trophy

Former India skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/dhoni">Mahendra Singh Dhoni</a> has spoken on his retirement plans from the Indian Premier League (IPL). Dhoni, who retired from international cricket across all formats in 2019, has continued to play IPL for Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Since last two seasons, however, the speculations around his eminent retirement has grown multi-folds.
&ldquo;I've retired since 2019, so it will be quite some time. What I've been doing in the meantime is I just want to enjoy cricket for the last, whatever few years, you know, I will be able to play,&rdquo; Dhoni's said on Wednesday (Feb 19) during an event as reported by news agency PTI.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-we-have-picked-only-two-spinners-other-three-are-all-rounders-rohit-8737572">Champions Trophy 2025: We have picked only two spinners, other three are all-rounders: Rohit</a>
&ldquo;I want to enjoy it, how I did as a child when I was in school. When I lived in a colony, 4 o'clock (in the afternoon) was sports time, so we'll go and play cricket more often than not.
&ldquo;But if the weather doesn't permit, we used to play football. I want to play with the same kind of innocence&hellip; (but it is) easier said than done,&rdquo; Dhoni added.
<h2>Dhoni to play another IPL?</h2>
By Dhoni's comments, it is clear that the talismanic wicketkeeper-batter will be playing the IPL for at least a couple more years including the IPL 2025. He has, however, quit the captaincy for CSK which has been given to young batter Ruturaj Gaikwad since IPL 2024.
Ahead of the IPL mega auction in November 2024, Dhoni was also retained by CSK as an uncapped player - a policy that BCCI brought back for retired India players.
Under Dhoni, CSK became one of the most successful IPL franchises - winning five titles. Dhoni is also India's most successful skippers and the only captain to win all three ICC white-ball titles - T20 World Cup in 2007, ODI World Cup in 2011 and Champions Trophy in 2013.

IPL 2025: MS Dhoni, who retired from international cricket across all formats in 2019, has continued to play IPL for Chennai Super Kings (CSK). cricket Sports

Former India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni has spoken on his retirement plans from the Indian Premier League (IPL). Dhoni, who retired from international cricket across all formats in 2019, has continued to play IPL for Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Since last two seasons, however, the speculations around his eminent retirement has grown multi-folds. “I've retired since 2019, so it will be quite some time. What I've been doing in the meantime is I just want to enjoy cricket for the last, whatever few years, you know, I will be able to play,” Dhoni's said on Wednesday (Feb 19) during an event as reported by news agency PTI. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: We have picked only two spinners, other three are all-rounders: Rohit “I want to enjoy it, how I did as a child when I was in school. When I lived in a colony, 4 o'clock (in the afternoon) was sports time, so we'll go and play cricket more often than not. “But if the weather doesn't permit, we used to play football. I want to play with the same kind of innocence… (but it is) easier said than done,” Dhoni added. Dhoni to play another IPL? By Dhoni's comments, it is clear that the talismanic wicketkeeper-batter will be playing the IPL for at least a couple more years including the IPL 2025. He has, however, quit the captaincy for CSK which has been given to young batter Ruturaj Gaikwad since IPL 2024. Ahead of the IPL mega auction in November 2024, Dhoni was also retained by CSK as an uncapped player - a policy that BCCI brought back for retired India players. Under Dhoni, CSK became one of the most successful IPL franchises - winning five titles. Dhoni is also India's most successful skippers and the only captain to win all three ICC white-ball titles - T20 World Cup in 2007, ODI World Cup in 2011 and Champions Trophy in 2013.

IPL 2025: 'I want to play...,' CSK legend MS Dhoni shares plan on impending retirement

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During India&rsquo;s triumphant 2013&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> campaign, the cricketing world&nbsp;witnessed the birth of what is now fondly called the 'Dhoni Review System.' Former India all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/suresh-raina">Suresh Raina</a> recently shared insights into <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ms-dhoni">MS Dhoni</a>'s tactical brilliance during a show on official broadcaster Star.&nbsp;
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India&rsquo;s commanding run in the tournament featured an unbeaten streak, with their emphatic eight-wicket victory against the West Indies standing out as a testament to their dominance. Raina highlighted how Dhoni&rsquo;s exceptional game management, including accurate DRS calls, aggressive field setups, and bold decisions, played a pivotal role in their success.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-top-records-most-runs-most-wicket-highest-individual-score-best-bowling-in-an-innings-8731515">Champions Trophy: From most runs to most wickets - Check top records</a> "The Oval is a batting-friendly surface, but playing in Wales requires you to look up at the skies as much as down at the pitch," Raina remarked. "This is where the Dhoni Review System began. Every DRS he called was correct. His attacking field placements made a big difference too. Virat Kohli was in the slips, Ashwin at leg slip, and Dhoni orchestrating everything from behind the stumps. He knew how to build pressure."&nbsp;
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A key highlight of that West Indies match was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ravindra-jadeja">Ravindra Jadeja</a>'s brilliant bowling performance, returning with figures of 5-36. Raina heaped praise on his teammate&rsquo;s accuracy and aggressive mindset, noting that Jadeja&rsquo;s ability to keep it at the stumps made him a unique all-rounder.&nbsp;
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"Jadeja was in top form that year across formats," Raina said. "If the wicket was dry, he became even more lethal. He bowled fast spin, straight deliveries, and Dhoni knew that if Jadeja could target the stumps for 35-40 deliveries out of 60, he would take five wickets."
<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW183376513 BCX0" lang="EN-US" paraid="1516738370" paraeid="{c154c945-cc05-4c8a-b6f4-48811139b949}{233}">'Virat enjoyed bowling'&nbsp;</h2>
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Raina also touched upon the role of part-time bowlers in the squad, crediting Dhoni&rsquo;s leadership for seamlessly integrating their contributions.&nbsp;
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"Virat enjoyed bowling a lot until he developed back tightness," Raina shared. "In England, if you're a slow medium pacer, you can contribute 3-4 overs. Dhoni knew how to extract those overs: 'Virat, come here. Rohit, come here. Raina, come here.' That&rsquo;s 10 overs right there."&nbsp;
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The combination of five frontline bowlers&mdash;Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja&mdash;along with the part-timers created a perfect balance, orchestrated masterfully by Dhoni.&nbsp;
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As India gears up for the upcoming Champions Trophy, with Rohit Sharma leading the side against Bangladesh in Dubai on February 20, the echoes of Dhoni&rsquo;s leadership continue to inspire the team and its supporters.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;
</div>

Cricket, Sports: India’s run in the tournament featured an unbeaten streak, with their eight-wicket win against the West Indies standing out as a testament to their dominance

During India’s triumphant 2013 Champions Trophy campaign, the cricketing world witnessed the birth of what is now fondly called the 'Dhoni Review System.' Former India all-rounder Suresh Raina recently shared insights into MS Dhoni's tactical brilliance during a show on official broadcaster Star. India’s commanding run in the tournament featured an unbeaten streak, with their emphatic eight-wicket victory against the West Indies standing out as a testament to their dominance. Raina highlighted how Dhoni’s exceptional game management, including accurate DRS calls, aggressive field setups, and bold decisions, played a pivotal role in their success. Also Read: Champions Trophy: From most runs to most wickets - Check top records "The Oval is a batting-friendly surface, but playing in Wales requires you to look up at the skies as much as down at the pitch," Raina remarked. "This is where the Dhoni Review System began. Every DRS he called was correct. His attacking field placements made a big difference too. Virat Kohli was in the slips, Ashwin at leg slip, and Dhoni orchestrating everything from behind the stumps. He knew how to build pressure." A key highlight of that West Indies match was Ravindra Jadeja's brilliant bowling performance, returning with figures of 5-36. Raina heaped praise on his teammate’s accuracy and aggressive mindset, noting that Jadeja’s ability to keep it at the stumps made him a unique all-rounder. "Jadeja was in top form that year across formats," Raina said. "If the wicket was dry, he became even more lethal. He bowled fast spin, straight deliveries, and Dhoni knew that if Jadeja could target the stumps for 35-40 deliveries out of 60, he would take five wickets." 'Virat enjoyed bowling' Raina also touched upon the role of part-time bowlers in the squad, crediting Dhoni’s leadership for seamlessly integrating their contributions. "Virat enjoyed bowling a lot until he developed back tightness," Raina shared. "In England, if you're a slow medium pacer, you can contribute 3-4 overs. Dhoni knew how to extract those overs: 'Virat, come here. Rohit, come here. Raina, come here.' That’s 10 overs right there." The combination of five frontline bowlers—Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja—along with the part-timers created a perfect balance, orchestrated masterfully by Dhoni. As India gears up for the upcoming Champions Trophy, with Rohit Sharma leading the side against Bangladesh in Dubai on February 20, the echoes of Dhoni’s leadership continue to inspire the team and its supporters. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Ex India all-rounder reveals what led to birth of ‘Dhoni Review System’ in 2013

Former Indian cricketer and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has made a bold call on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rajat-patidar-named-new-rcb-captain-for-ipl-season-8718321" rel="dofollow">Rajat Patidar&rsquo;s shocking appointment as RCB captain</a>. The Bengaluru-based IPL franchise named Patidar their new captain ahead of star batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a>, with the cricketing lobby reacting differently to it.
Though RCB&rsquo;s director of cricket, Mo Bobat, admitted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-virat-kohli-doesnt-need-captaincy-rcbs-director-of-cricket-mo-bobat-rajat-patidar-8717766" rel="dofollow">considering Kohli&rsquo;s name for the leadership role</a>, Srikkanth feels Patidar&rsquo;s appointment is a smart call by the IPL franchise, so much so that he compared his promotion to the leadership group to that of MS Dhoni&rsquo;s appointment as the Indian captain in 2007.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rashid-latif-hails-afghanistans-rashid-khan-calls-him-bigger-cricketer-than-wasim-akram-8726272" rel="dofollow">Rashid Latif hails Afghanistan&rsquo;s Rashid Khan, calls him bigger cricketer than Wasim Akram</a>
Speaking on his YouTube channel &lsquo;Cheeky Cheeka&rsquo;, Srikkanth said Virat must have said no to the RCB captaincy to concentrate more on his batting, while RCB must have picked Patidar after consulting the ace batter only.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I think it is Virat who said no to the captaincy. He must have wanted to focus on batting, and RCB did all of this in consultation with Virat Kohli,&rdquo; Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Kohli also congratulated Patidar on becoming the new RCB captain.
&ldquo;I am here to inform everyone like the others will do as well, that Rajat Patidar is going to be the new captain of RCB. Rajat, firstly, I want to congratulate you and wish you all the very best.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The way you have grown in the franchise and the way you have performed, you have made a place in the hearts of all the fans of RCB all over India. They get excited to watch you play.&nbsp;
&ldquo;So, this is very well deserved. Myself and the other team members will be right behind you, and you&rsquo;ll have all our support,&rdquo; Kohli said in a video posted by RCB.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m77j2ee8-112uceo7-cghjegfv">
𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐨𝐡𝐥𝐢 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐬! 💌 &ldquo;Myself and the other team members will be right behind you, Rajat&rdquo;: Virat Kohli &ldquo;The way you have grown in this franchise and the way you have performed, you&rsquo;ve made a place in the hearts of all RCB fans. This is very well deserved.&rdquo;&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/dgjDLm8ZCN">pic.twitter.com/dgjDLm8ZCN</a>
&mdash; Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1889924890331111838?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
Patidar will be the fourth Indian captain to lead RCB in the IPL, with Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble and Kohli being the previous skippers.
Besides, Patidar is the second name to lead the franchise since Kohli stepped down in 2021, replacing Faf du Plessis, who captained them for three seasons from 2022 to 2024.&nbsp;
Du Plessis will now represent Delhi Capitals from IPL 2025 onwards.
<h2>From MS Dhoni to Patidar</h2>
Srikkanth feels Patidar&rsquo;s appointment makes sense, given he&rsquo;s been a seasoned IPL campaigner, with everyone not expecting much out of his captaincy. Comparing that to Dhoni becoming the Indian skipper back in 2007, Srikkanth said,
&ldquo;He (Rajat) is a good choice. He has been doing well in the IPL, and the good thing is that he will not carry a lot of expectations, like how Dhoni was appointed in 2007 as the Indian captain; not a lot was expected from his team. Rajat will take his calls, and he has Virat Kohli to consult any time.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Srikkanth said Virat must have said no to the RCB captaincy to focus on his batting, while RCB must have picked Patidar after consulting the ace batter only.

Former Indian cricketer and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has made a bold call on Rajat Patidar’s shocking appointment as RCB captain. The Bengaluru-based IPL franchise named Patidar their new captain ahead of star batter Virat Kohli, with the cricketing lobby reacting differently to it. Though RCB’s director of cricket, Mo Bobat, admitted considering Kohli’s name for the leadership role, Srikkanth feels Patidar’s appointment is a smart call by the IPL franchise, so much so that he compared his promotion to the leadership group to that of MS Dhoni’s appointment as the Indian captain in 2007. Also read | Rashid Latif hails Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan, calls him bigger cricketer than Wasim Akram Speaking on his YouTube channel ‘Cheeky Cheeka’, Srikkanth said Virat must have said no to the RCB captaincy to concentrate more on his batting, while RCB must have picked Patidar after consulting the ace batter only. “I think it is Virat who said no to the captaincy. He must have wanted to focus on batting, and RCB did all of this in consultation with Virat Kohli,” Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel. Meanwhile, Kohli also congratulated Patidar on becoming the new RCB captain. “I am here to inform everyone like the others will do as well, that Rajat Patidar is going to be the new captain of RCB. Rajat, firstly, I want to congratulate you and wish you all the very best. “The way you have grown in the franchise and the way you have performed, you have made a place in the hearts of all the fans of RCB all over India. They get excited to watch you play. “So, this is very well deserved. Myself and the other team members will be right behind you, and you’ll have all our support,” Kohli said in a video posted by RCB. 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐨𝐡𝐥𝐢 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐬! 💌 “Myself and the other team members will be right behind you, Rajat”: Virat Kohli “The way you have grown in this franchise and the way you have performed, you’ve made a place in the hearts of all RCB fans. This is very well deserved.”… pic.twitter.com/dgjDLm8ZCN — Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) February 13, 2025 Patidar will be the fourth Indian captain to lead RCB in the IPL, with Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble and Kohli being the previous skippers. Besides, Patidar is the second name to lead the franchise since Kohli stepped down in 2021, replacing Faf du Plessis, who captained them for three seasons from 2022 to 2024. Du Plessis will now represent Delhi Capitals from IPL 2025 onwards. From MS Dhoni to Patidar Srikkanth feels Patidar’s appointment makes sense, given he’s been a seasoned IPL campaigner, with everyone not expecting much out of his captaincy. Comparing that to Dhoni becoming the Indian skipper back in 2007, Srikkanth said, “He (Rajat) is a good choice. He has been doing well in the IPL, and the good thing is that he will not carry a lot of expectations, like how Dhoni was appointed in 2007 as the Indian captain; not a lot was expected from his team. Rajat will take his calls, and he has Virat Kohli to consult any time.” (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-India selector compares Patidar’s RCB captaincy call to MS Dhoni's appointment as India captain

The Champions Trophy is less than a month away and former India skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ms-dhoni" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">MS Dhoni</a>, winner of Champions Trophy 2013, can't wait for it. Dhoni, who is the only captain to win all three ICC limited-over tournaments (ODI WC 2011, Champions Trophy 2012 and T20 WC 2007), is promoting the tournament in a promo for official broadcasters Star Sports.
<h2>Dhoni dunks into his own quirky 'DRS' for Champions Trophy</h2>
Dhoni, who was fondly called Captain Cool during his playing days, can be seen sitting in a bathtub full of snow, suggesting the tense atmosphere of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy</a>. The promo has also taken the term Decision Review System (DRS) and given it a unique twist, calling it the Dhoni Refrigeration System to go with the Captain Cool image of Dhoni. Have a look at the video below:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Captain Cool on the field 😌 Captain Cool as a fan 🥵 With every match do-or-die in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy</a>, even <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> needs a DRS (Dhoni Refrigeration System) to beat the heat! 👊 📺 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophyOnJioStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophyOnJioStar</a> STARTS WED, 19 FEB 2025! | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CaptainNotSoCool?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CaptainNotSoCool</a> <a href="https://t.co/nv1XXZoHht">pic.twitter.com/nv1XXZoHht</a>
&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1884428755009167507?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

During Dhoni's tenure as the captain, the Indian team was at its peak, at least in white-ball cricket as they won all the ICC titles. Since the 2012 Champions Trophy title, India has only managed to win one ICC trophy - the 2024 T20 World Cup under <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Rohit Sharma</a>.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/virat-kohli-ranji-trophy-return-live-practice-video-delhi-ranji-team-8663405" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Virat Kohli Ranji Trophy Return Updates</a>
Champions Trophy 2025 begins Feb 19 in Pakistan with India playing all its matches in Dubai under the agreed-upon hybrid model with the BCCI and the ICC.
<h2>ICC CEO Geoff Allardice steps down</h2>
ICC CEO Geoff Allardice has meanwhile stepped down from his position ahead of the eight-team tournament. While there is no official reason yet, it is believed that the ICC CEO has left the job over the lack of preparedness of stadiums in Pakistan - the host of Champions Trophy 2025.
"It has been a privilege to serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the International Cricket Council and I am incredibly proud of the results we have achieved, from enhancing the global reach of cricket to the commercial foundation put in place for ICC Members," Allardice said in a statement.
"I believe this is the right time for me to step down and pursue new challenges," he added.

Champions Trophy 2025: Dhoni, who was fondly called Captain Cool, can be seen sitting in a bathtub full of snow, suggesting the tense atmosphere of the tournament.  Cricket Sports

The Champions Trophy is less than a month away and former India skipper MS Dhoni, winner of Champions Trophy 2013, can't wait for it. Dhoni, who is the only captain to win all three ICC limited-over tournaments (ODI WC 2011, Champions Trophy 2012 and T20 WC 2007), is promoting the tournament in a promo for official broadcasters Star Sports. Dhoni dunks into his own quirky 'DRS' for Champions Trophy Dhoni, who was fondly called Captain Cool during his playing days, can be seen sitting in a bathtub full of snow, suggesting the tense atmosphere of the Champions Trophy. The promo has also taken the term Decision Review System (DRS) and given it a unique twist, calling it the Dhoni Refrigeration System to go with the Captain Cool image of Dhoni. Have a look at the video below: Captain Cool on the field 😌 Captain Cool as a fan 🥵 With every match do-or-die in the #ChampionsTrophy, even @msdhoni needs a DRS (Dhoni Refrigeration System) to beat the heat! 👊 📺 #ChampionsTrophyOnJioStar STARTS WED, 19 FEB 2025! | #CaptainNotSoCool pic.twitter.com/nv1XXZoHht — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) January 29, 2025 During Dhoni's tenure as the captain, the Indian team was at its peak, at least in white-ball cricket as they won all the ICC titles. Since the 2012 Champions Trophy title, India has only managed to win one ICC trophy - the 2024 T20 World Cup under Rohit Sharma. Also Read: Virat Kohli Ranji Trophy Return Updates Champions Trophy 2025 begins Feb 19 in Pakistan with India playing all its matches in Dubai under the agreed-upon hybrid model with the BCCI and the ICC. ICC CEO Geoff Allardice steps down ICC CEO Geoff Allardice has meanwhile stepped down from his position ahead of the eight-team tournament. While there is no official reason yet, it is believed that the ICC CEO has left the job over the lack of preparedness of stadiums in Pakistan - the host of Champions Trophy 2025. "It has been a privilege to serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the International Cricket Council and I am incredibly proud of the results we have achieved, from enhancing the global reach of cricket to the commercial foundation put in place for ICC Members," Allardice said in a statement. "I believe this is the right time for me to step down and pursue new challenges," he added.

Champions Trophy 2025: WATCH | Dhoni dives into his own quirky 'DRS'

Yograj Singh, the former Indian cricketer and ace batter Yuvraj Singh&rsquo;s father, is known for speaking his heart out. Having made several sensational remarks over the years on his differences with ex-Indian captain MS Dhoni, Yograj narrated a story when he wanted to kill a World Cup-winning Indian skipper - not MS Dhoni but Kapil Dev. Yograj admitted he once went to Kapil Dev&rsquo;s house with a pistol to shoot him but never did that.
Yograj, who played one Test and six ODIs (during the early 80s) before the former India skipper Kapil Dev dropped him, explained why he spared Kapil&rsquo;s life.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/pakistan-has-edge-over-india-in-champions-trophy-2025-mohammad-amir-8614193" rel="dofollow">Pakistan has edge over India in Champions Trophy 2025: Mohammad Amir</a>
In a candid chat on Unfiltered by Samdish, Yograj revealed when Kapil became the captain (for India, North Zone and Haryana), he dropped him for no reason, and after Yograj&rsquo;s wife (Yuvraj&rsquo;s mother) said she wanted to confront Kapil over the same, Yograj decided to teach him a lesson.
&ldquo;When Kapil Dev became captain of India, North Zone, and Haryana, he dropped me for no reason,&rdquo; Yograj said on the popular YouTube show.
&ldquo;My wife wanted me to ask Kapil questions. I told her that I would teach this bloody man a lesson.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I took my pistol out, and I went to Kapil&rsquo;s house in Sector 9. He came out with his mother. I abused him a dozen times. I told him because of you, I have lost a friend, and what you have done, you will pay for it,&rdquo; he continued.
Yograj added he told Kapil that because of his mother, whom he respected, he will not shoot him, asking Shabnam (Yograj&rsquo;s wife) to leave.
&ldquo;I told him, &lsquo;I want to put a bullet through your head, but I am not doing it because you have a very pious mother who is standing here.&rsquo; I told Shabnam, &lsquo;Let&rsquo;s go.&rsquo; &ldquo;That was the moment I decided I would not play cricket, Yuvi will play,&rdquo; he added.
<h2>When Kapil apologised to Yograj</h2>
Revealing his chat with the former India all-rounder after the MS Dhoni-led Indian Team won the 2011 ODI World Cup, Yograj said Kapil was the only man crying that day. Yograj added that he sent Kapil a paper cutting of his son (who was the Player of the tournament) doing better than him, to which Kapil even replied, &lsquo;We both will be brothers in the next life.&rsquo;&nbsp;
&ldquo;In 2011, when India won the World Cup, there was only one guy who was crying, and it was Kapil Dev,&rdquo; Yograj said. &ldquo;I did send him a paper cutting that my son did better than you in the World Cup.&rdquo;
&ldquo;Kapil sent me a WhatsApp text saying we will be brothers in the next life. We will be born from the same mother in the next life. He wanted to meet me. But there is a vengeance, and it still hurts.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Yograj, who played one Test and six ODIs (during the early 80s) before the former India skipper Kapil Dev dropped him, explained why he spared Kapil’s life.


Yograj Singh, the former Indian cricketer and ace batter Yuvraj Singh’s father, is known for speaking his heart out. Having made several sensational remarks over the years on his differences with ex-Indian captain MS Dhoni, Yograj narrated a story when he wanted to kill a World Cup-winning Indian skipper - not MS Dhoni but Kapil Dev. Yograj admitted he once went to Kapil Dev’s house with a pistol to shoot him but never did that. Yograj, who played one Test and six ODIs (during the early 80s) before the former India skipper Kapil Dev dropped him, explained why he spared Kapil’s life. Also read | Pakistan has edge over India in Champions Trophy 2025: Mohammad Amir In a candid chat on Unfiltered by Samdish, Yograj revealed when Kapil became the captain (for India, North Zone and Haryana), he dropped him for no reason, and after Yograj’s wife (Yuvraj’s mother) said she wanted to confront Kapil over the same, Yograj decided to teach him a lesson. “When Kapil Dev became captain of India, North Zone, and Haryana, he dropped me for no reason,” Yograj said on the popular YouTube show. “My wife wanted me to ask Kapil questions. I told her that I would teach this bloody man a lesson. “I took my pistol out, and I went to Kapil’s house in Sector 9. He came out with his mother. I abused him a dozen times. I told him because of you, I have lost a friend, and what you have done, you will pay for it,” he continued. Yograj added he told Kapil that because of his mother, whom he respected, he will not shoot him, asking Shabnam (Yograj’s wife) to leave. “I told him, ‘I want to put a bullet through your head, but I am not doing it because you have a very pious mother who is standing here.’ I told Shabnam, ‘Let’s go.’ “That was the moment I decided I would not play cricket, Yuvi will play,” he added. When Kapil apologised to Yograj Revealing his chat with the former India all-rounder after the MS Dhoni-led Indian Team won the 2011 ODI World Cup, Yograj said Kapil was the only man crying that day. Yograj added that he sent Kapil a paper cutting of his son (who was the Player of the tournament) doing better than him, to which Kapil even replied, ‘We both will be brothers in the next life.’ “In 2011, when India won the World Cup, there was only one guy who was crying, and it was Kapil Dev,” Yograj said. “I did send him a paper cutting that my son did better than you in the World Cup.” “Kapil sent me a WhatsApp text saying we will be brothers in the next life. We will be born from the same mother in the next life. He wanted to meet me. But there is a vengeance, and it still hurts.” (With inputs from agencies)

When Yograj Singh, Yuvraj’s father, wanted to kill an ex-India captain

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) owner Sanjiv Goenka lauded former Indian and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni in a recent interaction. Goenka, who previously owned the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS), worked closely with Dhoni during the latter's days in the Pune franchise. After signing Dhoni ahead of IPL 2016, the Goenka-led Pune franchise appointed him captain for the season. However, Steve Smith replaced Dhoni as the skipper for the IPL 2017 season.

There were reports of rift between Goenka and Dhoni post the latter's sacking as Pune captain. However, the businessman clarified all such claims and stated that there is no bad blood between the two. In a recent interaction, Goenka opined on his equation with the CSK legend and heaped praise on him.

"You look at MS Dhoni, I have never seen a leader like him. His thinking and way of approach, how a person at his age can reinvent himself. Look at Pathirana, he is a young bowler, Dhoni groomed him to be a lethal matchwinner. He knows how to use his players when and he thinks accordingly. Whenever I interact with him, I get to learn something,"&nbsp;Goenka said in the TRS Podcast.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-gabba-test-bcci-needs-robust-selectors-to-take-tough-calls-greg-chappell-on-kohli-rohits-test-future-783378">BGT, Gabba Test - BCCI needs robust selectors to take tough calls: Greg Chappell on Kohli, Rohit’s Test future</a>

<h2>'Whenever he plays against Lucknow, the entire stadium is filled with yellow to support him'</h2>

He added, "I have an 11-year-old grandson who is crazy about cricket. Dhoni in my home taught him how to play cricket, some 5-6 years ago. He constantly asked him questions and I told my grandson ‘Leave him now’. Dhoni replied ‘Let it be, I am enjoying this conversation’. Dhoni went on to have a conversation with him for half an hour. It makes you learn that is why he is Dhoni. Whenever he plays against Lucknow, the entire stadium is filled with yellow to support him."

Dhoni will be seen in action during IPL 2025, after being retained by the Yellow Army as an uncapped player ahead of the recently-held IPL mega auction. Meanwhile, Goenka-led LSG franchise roped in Rishabh Pant, for a whopping INR 270 million (INR 27 crore), at the auction and are expected to appoint him captain for the next edition.

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) owner Sanjiv Goenka lauded former Indian and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni in a recent interaction. Goenka, who previously owned the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS), worked closely with Dhoni during the latter's days in the Pune franchise.

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) owner Sanjiv Goenka lauded former Indian and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni in a recent interaction. Goenka, who previously owned the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS), worked closely with Dhoni during the latter's days in the Pune franchise. After signing Dhoni ahead of IPL 2016, the Goenka-led Pune franchise appointed him captain for the season. However, Steve Smith replaced Dhoni as the skipper for the IPL 2017 season. There were reports of rift between Goenka and Dhoni post the latter's sacking as Pune captain. However, the businessman clarified all such claims and stated that there is no bad blood between the two. In a recent interaction, Goenka opined on his equation with the CSK legend and heaped praise on him. "You look at MS Dhoni, I have never seen a leader like him. His thinking and way of approach, how a person at his age can reinvent himself. Look at Pathirana, he is a young bowler, Dhoni groomed him to be a lethal matchwinner. He knows how to use his players when and he thinks accordingly. Whenever I interact with him, I get to learn something," Goenka said in the TRS Podcast. Also read: BGT, Gabba Test - BCCI needs robust selectors to take tough calls: Greg Chappell on Kohli, Rohit’s Test future 'Whenever he plays against Lucknow, the entire stadium is filled with yellow to support him' He added, "I have an 11-year-old grandson who is crazy about cricket. Dhoni in my home taught him how to play cricket, some 5-6 years ago. He constantly asked him questions and I told my grandson ‘Leave him now’. Dhoni replied ‘Let it be, I am enjoying this conversation’. Dhoni went on to have a conversation with him for half an hour. It makes you learn that is why he is Dhoni. Whenever he plays against Lucknow, the entire stadium is filled with yellow to support him." Dhoni will be seen in action during IPL 2025, after being retained by the Yellow Army as an uncapped player ahead of the recently-held IPL mega auction. Meanwhile, Goenka-led LSG franchise roped in Rishabh Pant, for a whopping INR 270 million (INR 27 crore), at the auction and are expected to appoint him captain for the next edition.

I have never seen a leader like him: LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka on his equation with CSK legend MS Dhoni

MS Dhoni and Harbhajan Singh were part of the Indian team dressing room for major part of 2000-2015. The latter also played under Dhoni in Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from IPL 2018-2020. Both the cricketers were part of India's victorious runs in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup, where the Men in Blue won under Dhoni's captaincy.&nbsp;Bhajji and Dhoni have remained cordial off the field. Recently, the former Indian spinner revealed his equation with the ex-India skipper. Harbhajan admitted that he hasn't spoken to Dhoni for '10 years and more'.

<h2>'He did not come to my room, nor did I go to his'</h2>

Talking to News18, Bhajji -- who ended with third-most international wickets (707) for India&nbsp; said, "No, I don't speak to Dhoni. When I was playing at CSK, that's when we spoke, but otherwise, we haven't spoken. It's been 10 years and more. I have no reason; perhaps he does. I don't know what the reasons are. When we were playing in the IPL at CSK, that's when we used to talk, and that, too, was restricted to the ground. After that, he did not come to my room, nor did I go to his."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-pcb-open-to-hybrid-model-urges-same-for-events-in-india-781329">Champions Trophy 2025: PCB open to hybrid model, urges same for events in India</a>

<h2>'A relationship is always about give and take'</h2>

Harbhajan added, "I don't have anything against him. If he has something to say, he can tell me. But if he did, he would have told me by now. I never tried to call him because I have a lot of passion. I only ring up those who pick up my calls. I don't have the time otherwise. I stay in touch with the ones I am friends with. A relationship is always about give and take. If I respect you, I hope you will respect me back. Or you respond to me. But if I call you once or twice but don't get a response, I will probably only meet you as much as I am needed to."

Notably, Dhoni has never responded to the rift rumours with Bhajji. There have been several reports of his weak equation with Yuvraj Singh and Gautam Gambhir.&nbsp;

Dhoni and Harbhajan played together for India for a long time before they reunited at the CSK camp from 2018-2020. While the former remains active in the IPL, where he has played for CSK and now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS), he retired from internationals in mid-2020. Bhajji, on the other hand, debuted for India in 1998 and played his last in 2015. He represented CSK, after his long stint with Mumbai Indians (MI), in the IPL before moving to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a year. He announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in late 2021.

MS Dhoni and Harbhajan Singh were part of the Indian team dressing room for major part of 2000-2015. The latter also played under Dhoni in Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from IPL 2018-2020.

MS Dhoni and Harbhajan Singh were part of the Indian team dressing room for major part of 2000-2015. The latter also played under Dhoni in Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from IPL 2018-2020. Both the cricketers were part of India's victorious runs in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup, where the Men in Blue won under Dhoni's captaincy. Bhajji and Dhoni have remained cordial off the field. Recently, the former Indian spinner revealed his equation with the ex-India skipper. Harbhajan admitted that he hasn't spoken to Dhoni for '10 years and more'. 'He did not come to my room, nor did I go to his' Talking to News18, Bhajji -- who ended with third-most international wickets (707) for India said, "No, I don't speak to Dhoni. When I was playing at CSK, that's when we spoke, but otherwise, we haven't spoken. It's been 10 years and more. I have no reason; perhaps he does. I don't know what the reasons are. When we were playing in the IPL at CSK, that's when we used to talk, and that, too, was restricted to the ground. After that, he did not come to my room, nor did I go to his." Also read: Champions Trophy 2025: PCB open to hybrid model, urges same for events in India 'A relationship is always about give and take' Harbhajan added, "I don't have anything against him. If he has something to say, he can tell me. But if he did, he would have told me by now. I never tried to call him because I have a lot of passion. I only ring up those who pick up my calls. I don't have the time otherwise. I stay in touch with the ones I am friends with. A relationship is always about give and take. If I respect you, I hope you will respect me back. Or you respond to me. But if I call you once or twice but don't get a response, I will probably only meet you as much as I am needed to." Notably, Dhoni has never responded to the rift rumours with Bhajji. There have been several reports of his weak equation with Yuvraj Singh and Gautam Gambhir. Dhoni and Harbhajan played together for India for a long time before they reunited at the CSK camp from 2018-2020. While the former remains active in the IPL, where he has played for CSK and now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS), he retired from internationals in mid-2020. Bhajji, on the other hand, debuted for India in 1998 and played his last in 2015. He represented CSK, after his long stint with Mumbai Indians (MI), in the IPL before moving to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a year. He announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in late 2021.

No, I don't speak to MS Dhoni: Harbhajan Singh reveals his equation with former India captain

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) superstar Suresh Raina has explained the franchise’s decision to retain their veteran MS Dhoni ahead of IPL 2025 while sharing thoughts on Ruturaj Gaikwad as team captain. Dhoni relinquished CSK’s captaincy before last season, handing the baton to the opener and seasoned campaigner Gaikwad. The joint-most successful IPL side retained both alongside Shivam Dube, Matheesha Pathirana and Ravindra Jadeja, spending INR 65 crores.

Meanwhile, the IPL brought back an old rule, scrapped in 2021, which states that an Indian player who last played an international game five years before the retention date will be eligible to play IPL 2025 but as an uncapped player. With Dhoni’s last match for India dated back in July 2019, he fits the criteria, and thus, CSK retained him for INR 4 crore.

However, there is more to this.&nbsp;

"CSK needs him," Raina said of Dhoni playing IPL 2025 during a conversation with Times of India (TOI). "Ruturaj is still a new captain; just one edition has gone by (with him as the skipper). So, I personally also believe he (Dhoni) should play."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-perth-test-day-3-yashasvi-jaiswal-nears-150-as-indias-lead-cross-320-at-lunch-778755">BGT - Perth Test, Day 3: Yashasvi Jaiswal nears 150 as India’s lead cross 320 at lunch</a>

Speaking of Dhoni and his chances of prolonging his IPL career, Raina noted that he is fit enough to play two more years, and given his awareness about his body, Dhoni intentionally played so low the past season.

"He has the fitness, has been retained, so he wants to enjoy it for a couple of years. He bats only during the last 3-4 overs and is wicket-keeping well,” Raina continued.

Meanwhile, in the 2024 season, Dhoni played all 14 matches, batting in eight outings and scoring 161 runs at a whopping strike rate of 220.55. Overall, he has played 264 games, whacking 5243 runs, with his highest being 84*.&nbsp;

<h2>CSK in IPL 2025 Mega Auction</h2>

CSK is among a few teams to have retained five players, with Captain Gaikwad and all-rounder Jadeja pocketing INR 18 crores each. While CSK retained the Sri Lankan seamer Pathirana for INR 13 crore, they secured Dube’s services for next season for INR 12 crore.&nbsp;

Besides, given their history and how they approach players at the auction, CSK is likely to chase their former players, preparing to keep the core for the upcoming season, starting March 14, 2025.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) superstar Suresh Raina has explained the franchise’s decision to retain their veteran MS Dhoni ahead of IPL 2025 while sharing thoughts on Ruturaj Gaikwad as team captain.

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) superstar Suresh Raina has explained the franchise’s decision to retain their veteran MS Dhoni ahead of IPL 2025 while sharing thoughts on Ruturaj Gaikwad as team captain. Dhoni relinquished CSK’s captaincy before last season, handing the baton to the opener and seasoned campaigner Gaikwad. The joint-most successful IPL side retained both alongside Shivam Dube, Matheesha Pathirana and Ravindra Jadeja, spending INR 65 crores. Meanwhile, the IPL brought back an old rule, scrapped in 2021, which states that an Indian player who last played an international game five years before the retention date will be eligible to play IPL 2025 but as an uncapped player. With Dhoni’s last match for India dated back in July 2019, he fits the criteria, and thus, CSK retained him for INR 4 crore. However, there is more to this. "CSK needs him," Raina said of Dhoni playing IPL 2025 during a conversation with Times of India (TOI). "Ruturaj is still a new captain; just one edition has gone by (with him as the skipper). So, I personally also believe he (Dhoni) should play." ALSO READ: BGT - Perth Test, Day 3: Yashasvi Jaiswal nears 150 as India’s lead cross 320 at lunch Speaking of Dhoni and his chances of prolonging his IPL career, Raina noted that he is fit enough to play two more years, and given his awareness about his body, Dhoni intentionally played so low the past season. "He has the fitness, has been retained, so he wants to enjoy it for a couple of years. He bats only during the last 3-4 overs and is wicket-keeping well,” Raina continued. Meanwhile, in the 2024 season, Dhoni played all 14 matches, batting in eight outings and scoring 161 runs at a whopping strike rate of 220.55. Overall, he has played 264 games, whacking 5243 runs, with his highest being 84*. CSK in IPL 2025 Mega Auction CSK is among a few teams to have retained five players, with Captain Gaikwad and all-rounder Jadeja pocketing INR 18 crores each. While CSK retained the Sri Lankan seamer Pathirana for INR 13 crore, they secured Dube’s services for next season for INR 12 crore. Besides, given their history and how they approach players at the auction, CSK is likely to chase their former players, preparing to keep the core for the upcoming season, starting March 14, 2025. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Raina explains CSK’s decision to retain MS Dhoni; shares thoughts on Gaikwad as franchise captain

Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden revealed that MS Dhoni had once identified Jasprit Bumrah's abilities as a 'potential captain'. Hayden, who played under former India captain Dhoni for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL, stated that Dhoni had mentioned Bumrah's leadership qualities. Notably, Bumrah is set to lead India in the first Test versus Australia in Perth, i.e. the series opener of the&nbsp;upcoming 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Bumrah will lead India for the second time in Tests after regular captain Rohit Sharma is out of action due to paternity leave.

Hayden, a Channel 7 commentator, responded to India Today's query in a virtual presser and said, "From what I understand, not knowing Bumrah on the field as such, not even having played against him, but coming from a great friend and mentor of mine in MS Dhoni, he’s got leadership qualities as well. In fact, he was touted by MS many years ago as a potential captain."

He further opined, "Off the field, I have spent a large amount of time with Jasprit, he’s intelligent, well-organised and constructive in his comments on the game, which for me reveals he’s got good leadership instincts, and they will come to the fore captaining a very excited and extremely optimistic team coming here, and I’m sure he will be up for it."

Bumrah has led India once in Tests, versus England in Edgbaston in July 2022. Despite a healthy lead, India went on to lose the match by seven wickets.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-happy-that-cheteshwar-pujara-is-not-here-josh-hazlewood-relieved-by-veteran-batters-absence-777625">BGT 2024/25: 'Happy that Cheteshwar Pujara is not here,' Josh Hazlewood relieved by veteran batter's absence</a>

Hayden lauded Bumrah for stepping up for India in crunch situations. He mentioned that despite not playing a lot like Rohit and Virat Kohli, Bumrah has&nbsp;played like a “stalwart” of Indian cricket and praised him for his bowling in the Perth Test in 2018, which India lost by 146 runs.&nbsp;

The former opener stated, "When you think about Jasprit Bumrah, you think he’s probably played 80 to 100 Tests. It just seems like he’s been a stalwart of Indian cricket across all three formats. The reality is he has played 40 Tests and that’s a lot of cricket, but it’s not Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and other names that have played a lot more amongst the stalwarts of Indian cricket."

"Bumrah will lead with the ball just like Pat Cummins. He took five wickets in Perth in a losing cause. He is going to lead from the front, the better he bowls, the better his team gets into a position of dominance, and he can expose many players because of his immense talent,” Hayden added.

The first Test gets underway on Friday (Nov. 22) at the Perth Stadium, Perth.&nbsp;

Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden revealed that MS Dhoni had once identified Jasprit Bumrah's abilities as a 'potential captain'. Hayden, who played under former India captain Dhoni for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL, stated that Dhoni had mentioned Bumrah's leadership qualities.

Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden revealed that MS Dhoni had once identified Jasprit Bumrah's abilities as a 'potential captain'. Hayden, who played under former India captain Dhoni for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL, stated that Dhoni had mentioned Bumrah's leadership qualities. Notably, Bumrah is set to lead India in the first Test versus Australia in Perth, i.e. the series opener of the upcoming 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Bumrah will lead India for the second time in Tests after regular captain Rohit Sharma is out of action due to paternity leave. Hayden, a Channel 7 commentator, responded to India Today's query in a virtual presser and said, "From what I understand, not knowing Bumrah on the field as such, not even having played against him, but coming from a great friend and mentor of mine in MS Dhoni, he’s got leadership qualities as well. In fact, he was touted by MS many years ago as a potential captain." He further opined, "Off the field, I have spent a large amount of time with Jasprit, he’s intelligent, well-organised and constructive in his comments on the game, which for me reveals he’s got good leadership instincts, and they will come to the fore captaining a very excited and extremely optimistic team coming here, and I’m sure he will be up for it." Bumrah has led India once in Tests, versus England in Edgbaston in July 2022. Despite a healthy lead, India went on to lose the match by seven wickets. Also read: BGT 2024/25: 'Happy that Cheteshwar Pujara is not here,' Josh Hazlewood relieved by veteran batter's absence Hayden lauded Bumrah for stepping up for India in crunch situations. He mentioned that despite not playing a lot like Rohit and Virat Kohli, Bumrah has played like a “stalwart” of Indian cricket and praised him for his bowling in the Perth Test in 2018, which India lost by 146 runs. The former opener stated, "When you think about Jasprit Bumrah, you think he’s probably played 80 to 100 Tests. It just seems like he’s been a stalwart of Indian cricket across all three formats. The reality is he has played 40 Tests and that’s a lot of cricket, but it’s not Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and other names that have played a lot more amongst the stalwarts of Indian cricket." "Bumrah will lead with the ball just like Pat Cummins. He took five wickets in Perth in a losing cause. He is going to lead from the front, the better he bowls, the better his team gets into a position of dominance, and he can expose many players because of his immense talent,” Hayden added. The first Test gets underway on Friday (Nov. 22) at the Perth Stadium, Perth.

BGT 2024/25: MS Dhoni once touted Jasprit Bumrah as potential captain, says Matthew Hayden ahead of Perth Test

Sanju Samson's father&nbsp;Vishwanath Samson has made heads turn with his statement on MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid. Vishwanath accused the India greats&nbsp;of wasting his son's 10 precious years by not giving him a longer run&nbsp;at the international level (having hardly played under Dhoni, Kohli and Rohit's captaincy). The stylish right-hander made his India debut in 2015 but only since 2022, Samson has been getting a fair run in white-ball cricket. The 30-year-old's career has been marred with inconsistencies but&nbsp;recently he became the first Indian to slam consecutive T20I centuries during India's ongoing four-match series versus South Africa, in the African nation.

<h2>'Dhoni, Kohli, Rohit and Dravid&nbsp;destroyed 10 years of my son's life'</h2>

Vishwanath,&nbsp;in a recent interview with a Kerala-based news outlet, Media One, said, "There are 3-4 people who wasted 10 years of my son's vital career... captains like Dhoni ji, Virat [Kohli] ji, Rohit [Sharma] ji, and coach [Rahul] Dravid ji," he said, stating that they had "destroyed 10 years of my son's life."

Despite the setbacks, Vishwanath was all praise for his son and further opined,&nbsp;"The more they hurt him, the stronger Sanju came out of the crisis."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-sa-3rd-t20i-tilak-varmas-maiden-ton-gives-india-unbeatable-series-lead-in-high-scoring-thriller-775993">Ind vs SA, 3rd T20I: Tilak Varma's maiden ton gives India unbeatable series lead in high-scoring thriller</a>

Vishwanath also hit back at Kris Srikkanth for belittling Sanju's achievements, particularly after he scored his maiden T20I century (against Bangladesh) last month. In this regard, he added, "What hurt me really bad was comments from [Kris] Srikkanth, the player from Tamil Nadu. He said, 'against whom did Sanju score a century? It was only Bangladesh.' Century is a century, and that guy has scored only 26 runs against Bangladesh. Sanju has scored a hundred and he is a player with a classical touch like Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. At least respect that."

At present, Samson has been inconsistent in the four T20Is versus Proteas. He started the series with his second T20I ton, scoring a magnificent 107, but&nbsp;followed it up with two successive ducks. He will be eager to score big in the fourth and final T20I, on Friday (Nov 15) in Johannesburg. The Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian team have an unassailable 2-1 lead&nbsp;after a narrow 11-run win in the penultimate tie, in Centurion, on Wednesday (Nov 13).

Sanju Samson's father Vishwanath Samson has made heads turn with his statement on MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid. Vishwanath accused the India greats of wasting his son's 10 precious years by not giving him a longer run at the international level (having hardly played under Dhoni, Kohli and Rohit's captaincy).

Sanju Samson's father Vishwanath Samson has made heads turn with his statement on MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid. Vishwanath accused the India greats of wasting his son's 10 precious years by not giving him a longer run at the international level (having hardly played under Dhoni, Kohli and Rohit's captaincy). The stylish right-hander made his India debut in 2015 but only since 2022, Samson has been getting a fair run in white-ball cricket. The 30-year-old's career has been marred with inconsistencies but recently he became the first Indian to slam consecutive T20I centuries during India's ongoing four-match series versus South Africa, in the African nation. 'Dhoni, Kohli, Rohit and Dravid destroyed 10 years of my son's life' Vishwanath, in a recent interview with a Kerala-based news outlet, Media One, said, "There are 3-4 people who wasted 10 years of my son's vital career... captains like Dhoni ji, Virat [Kohli] ji, Rohit [Sharma] ji, and coach [Rahul] Dravid ji," he said, stating that they had "destroyed 10 years of my son's life." Despite the setbacks, Vishwanath was all praise for his son and further opined, "The more they hurt him, the stronger Sanju came out of the crisis." Also read: Ind vs SA, 3rd T20I: Tilak Varma's maiden ton gives India unbeatable series lead in high-scoring thriller Vishwanath also hit back at Kris Srikkanth for belittling Sanju's achievements, particularly after he scored his maiden T20I century (against Bangladesh) last month. In this regard, he added, "What hurt me really bad was comments from [Kris] Srikkanth, the player from Tamil Nadu. He said, 'against whom did Sanju score a century? It was only Bangladesh.' Century is a century, and that guy has scored only 26 runs against Bangladesh. Sanju has scored a hundred and he is a player with a classical touch like Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. At least respect that." At present, Samson has been inconsistent in the four T20Is versus Proteas. He started the series with his second T20I ton, scoring a magnificent 107, but followed it up with two successive ducks. He will be eager to score big in the fourth and final T20I, on Friday (Nov 15) in Johannesburg. The Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian team have an unassailable 2-1 lead after a narrow 11-run win in the penultimate tie, in Centurion, on Wednesday (Nov 13).

MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit and Dravid wasted 10 years of my son's career, claims Sanju Samson's father

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has addressed rumours about the franchise chasing India gloveman Rishabh Pant at the upcoming IPL mega auction 2025. With CSK veteran MS Dhoni in the twilight stage of his IPL career, indicating wanting to enjoy his last few years in this cash-rich league, the Chennai-based outfit would be keen to bring in his like-to-like replacement, and what’s better than doing it at the mega auction scheduled in Jeddah on November 24 and 25.

For the first time since rumours of CSK wanting to bag Pant’s services at the auction began doing rounds, Kasi, while speaking with former CSK batter and trophy-winner Ambati Rayudu, broke his silence, insisting that discussions around the same took place with the captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and Dhoni, CSK would aim to chase their core players instead of going after big names.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ex-england-pacer-james-anderson-reveals-reason-behind-signing-up-for-ipl-auction-774966">Ex-England pacer James Anderson reveals reason behind signing up for IPL auction</a>

It has been CSK’s strategy to retain their core players since the outset, a testament to their success in this league. With CSK retaining only five players, including Gaikwad, Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube and Matheesha Pathirana, and considering their remaining purse of INR 55 crore out of INR 120-crore purse, chasing big Indian names, including Pant, KL Rahul or even Shreyas Iyer, could be out of their reach.&nbsp;

Kasi also admitted they discussed these scenarios before releasing the final retention list.

"We had discussions with Ruturaj, the captain, MS (Dhoni) and Coach Stephen Fleming before we decided on the retentions. We were very clear that the players that helped the team grow, stabilise in the previous years were the ones very important for the CSK team to continue further," Kasi said, as quoted by Hindustan Times.

"It was very easy to decide on the retentions -- Gaikwad, Jaddu, MS, Shivam Dube and Matheesha Pathirana. But we knew that if we retain these players, we would have a lesser purse to go into the auction. We knew that we wouldn't be able to compete with the other teams when it comes to the best of the Indian players. I mean, we will still try, but I don't think we'll be able to get them at the auction," he continued.&nbsp;

<h2>CSK targets ex-players</h2>

With several players in the pipeline for CSK to go after from their previous squad, the Kiwi pair of Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra, Sri Lanka spinner Mahesh Theekshana and Indian seamer Deepak Chahar are among the favourites.

The five-time IPL winner could also get after local players picked during earlier auctions this time.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has addressed rumours about the franchise chasing India gloveman Rishabh Pant at the upcoming IPL mega auction 2025.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has addressed rumours about the franchise chasing India gloveman Rishabh Pant at the upcoming IPL mega auction 2025. With CSK veteran MS Dhoni in the twilight stage of his IPL career, indicating wanting to enjoy his last few years in this cash-rich league, the Chennai-based outfit would be keen to bring in his like-to-like replacement, and what’s better than doing it at the mega auction scheduled in Jeddah on November 24 and 25. For the first time since rumours of CSK wanting to bag Pant’s services at the auction began doing rounds, Kasi, while speaking with former CSK batter and trophy-winner Ambati Rayudu, broke his silence, insisting that discussions around the same took place with the captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and Dhoni, CSK would aim to chase their core players instead of going after big names. ALSO READ: Ex-England pacer James Anderson reveals reason behind signing up for IPL auction It has been CSK’s strategy to retain their core players since the outset, a testament to their success in this league. With CSK retaining only five players, including Gaikwad, Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube and Matheesha Pathirana, and considering their remaining purse of INR 55 crore out of INR 120-crore purse, chasing big Indian names, including Pant, KL Rahul or even Shreyas Iyer, could be out of their reach. Kasi also admitted they discussed these scenarios before releasing the final retention list. "We had discussions with Ruturaj, the captain, MS (Dhoni) and Coach Stephen Fleming before we decided on the retentions. We were very clear that the players that helped the team grow, stabilise in the previous years were the ones very important for the CSK team to continue further," Kasi said, as quoted by Hindustan Times. "It was very easy to decide on the retentions -- Gaikwad, Jaddu, MS, Shivam Dube and Matheesha Pathirana. But we knew that if we retain these players, we would have a lesser purse to go into the auction. We knew that we wouldn't be able to compete with the other teams when it comes to the best of the Indian players. I mean, we will still try, but I don't think we'll be able to get them at the auction," he continued. CSK targets ex-players With several players in the pipeline for CSK to go after from their previous squad, the Kiwi pair of Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra, Sri Lanka spinner Mahesh Theekshana and Indian seamer Deepak Chahar are among the favourites. The five-time IPL winner could also get after local players picked during earlier auctions this time. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Kasi Viswanathan addresses CSK chasing Rishabh Pant rumours, says ‘discussions were…’

It was a historic day in the United States on Wednesday (Nov. 6) as former President Donald Trump returned to power after getting a mandate in the 2024 elections. Trump, president of the US between 2016 and 2020, is all set to start his second term after gaining a majority on Electoral College votes' counting. While Trump is in seventh heaven, former India cricket team captain MS Dhoni is also doing the rounds on the internet after his old picture with Trump has gone viral.

<h2>Trump, Dhoni picture goes viral</h2>

During the 2023 US Open, Dhoni and friends were in the States enjoying the tennis carnival when they were invited by Trump for a golf game. Now retired, Dhoni took to the golf course of the next president, where he enjoyed a day out. On the same day, Dhoni was snapped in a picture with Trump, which is now viral on the internet after the latter’s win. Dhoni was seen wearing a blue T-shirt and Trump was spotted with a red hat and white T-shirt.

<h2>Trump registers historic win</h2>

In a historic win, according to the Electoral College votes' count, the 78-year-old is set to become only the second president in the United States’ history to enjoy non-consecutive terms. Grover Cleveland in 1893 was the last president from the US to have been in power for non-consecutive terms. Trump’s victory comes after he got the better of Democratic candidate and sitting vice-president Kamala Harris.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ca-squashed-it-quickly-david-warner-on-india-as-ball-tampering-controversy-asks-board-to-release-statement-773945">CA squashed it quickly: David Warner on India A's ball tampering controversy, asks board to release statement</a>

At the time of writing, the Republic candidate led 277-224, meaning he clearly has the mandate to become the 47th president, having passed the magical figure of 270. According to the Associated Press, Trump won Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia, with leads in Nevada, Arizona, Wisconsin and Michigan.

The result also means the US will see another shift in power, with Trump set to become the first Republic candidate in over two decades to win the popular vote as well.

It was a historic day in the United States on Wednesday (Nov. 6) as former President Donald Trump returned to power after getting a mandate in the 2024 elections.

It was a historic day in the United States on Wednesday (Nov. 6) as former President Donald Trump returned to power after getting a mandate in the 2024 elections. Trump, president of the US between 2016 and 2020, is all set to start his second term after gaining a majority on Electoral College votes' counting. While Trump is in seventh heaven, former India cricket team captain MS Dhoni is also doing the rounds on the internet after his old picture with Trump has gone viral. Trump, Dhoni picture goes viral During the 2023 US Open, Dhoni and friends were in the States enjoying the tennis carnival when they were invited by Trump for a golf game. Now retired, Dhoni took to the golf course of the next president, where he enjoyed a day out. On the same day, Dhoni was snapped in a picture with Trump, which is now viral on the internet after the latter’s win. Dhoni was seen wearing a blue T-shirt and Trump was spotted with a red hat and white T-shirt. Trump registers historic win In a historic win, according to the Electoral College votes' count, the 78-year-old is set to become only the second president in the United States’ history to enjoy non-consecutive terms. Grover Cleveland in 1893 was the last president from the US to have been in power for non-consecutive terms. Trump’s victory comes after he got the better of Democratic candidate and sitting vice-president Kamala Harris. ALSO READ | CA squashed it quickly: David Warner on India A's ball tampering controversy, asks board to release statement At the time of writing, the Republic candidate led 277-224, meaning he clearly has the mandate to become the 47th president, having passed the magical figure of 270. According to the Associated Press, Trump won Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia, with leads in Nevada, Arizona, Wisconsin and Michigan. The result also means the US will see another shift in power, with Trump set to become the first Republic candidate in over two decades to win the popular vote as well.

Donald Trump, MS Dhoni old picture goes viral as former president returns to power in US

The Afro-Asia Cup could be back on the ICC calendar after the Africa Cricket Association (ACA) took formal&nbsp;steps for the revival of the tournament, according to a report on Tuesday (Nov. 5). The Afro-Asia Cup has not been played since 2007 after it was revoked from the Future Tour Program (FTP) of the International Cricket Council (ICC). It is learned that the ACA set up a six-member interim committee to restructure the ACA and increase the number of competitive opportunities.

<h2>Afro-Asia Cup set for revival</h2>

"The Afro-Asia Cup, apart from the cricket, brings the much-needed financial input to the organisation, and the appetite is huge from both ends," Tavengwa Mukuhlani, interim chair of the ACA, who is also the Zimbabwe Cricket Chair, said at a press conference.

"We have had conversations with our counterparts within the Asia Cricket Council, and obviously our African contingents, they want the Afro-Asia Cup to be revived."

<h2>What is the Afro-Asia Cup?</h2>

In 2005, ACA and ACC came together with a joint venture contesting an ODI series between Africa’s best players and Asia’s best players. In 2005, a three-match ODI series took place between Africa XI vs Asia XI in South Africa, aiming to promote talent and bring the best players together. Players from Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and India were the main feature of the Asia XI, while the Africa XI was mostly of the South African side, also consisting of players from Zimbabwe and Kenya.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/gautam-gambhir-went-against-team-management-defied-rahul-dravids-pitch-theory-during-nz-series-report-773416">Gautam Gambhir went against team management, defied Rahul Dravid's 'pitch theory' during NZ Tests: Report</a>

The inaugural edition ended 1-1 with the final match getting washed out, while in 2007, Asia XI beat Africa XI 3-0 in a clean sweep. The tournament was set to take place in 2009, however, a congested fixture list and postponement of the 2009 Champions Trophy saw the tournament get called off.

While no date has been finalised for the relaunch of the Afro-Asia Cup, it is expected that it could return only after the World Test Championship (WTC) final in June 2025 as the cricketing calendar is congested.

The Afro-Asia Cup could be back on the ICC calendar after the Africa Cricket Association (ACA) took formal steps for the revival of the tournament, according to a report on Tuesday (Nov.

The Afro-Asia Cup could be back on the ICC calendar after the Africa Cricket Association (ACA) took formal steps for the revival of the tournament, according to a report on Tuesday (Nov. 5). The Afro-Asia Cup has not been played since 2007 after it was revoked from the Future Tour Program (FTP) of the International Cricket Council (ICC). It is learned that the ACA set up a six-member interim committee to restructure the ACA and increase the number of competitive opportunities. Afro-Asia Cup set for revival "The Afro-Asia Cup, apart from the cricket, brings the much-needed financial input to the organisation, and the appetite is huge from both ends," Tavengwa Mukuhlani, interim chair of the ACA, who is also the Zimbabwe Cricket Chair, said at a press conference. "We have had conversations with our counterparts within the Asia Cricket Council, and obviously our African contingents, they want the Afro-Asia Cup to be revived." What is the Afro-Asia Cup? In 2005, ACA and ACC came together with a joint venture contesting an ODI series between Africa’s best players and Asia’s best players. In 2005, a three-match ODI series took place between Africa XI vs Asia XI in South Africa, aiming to promote talent and bring the best players together. Players from Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and India were the main feature of the Asia XI, while the Africa XI was mostly of the South African side, also consisting of players from Zimbabwe and Kenya. ALSO READ | Gautam Gambhir went against team management, defied Rahul Dravid's 'pitch theory' during NZ Tests: Report The inaugural edition ended 1-1 with the final match getting washed out, while in 2007, Asia XI beat Africa XI 3-0 in a clean sweep. The tournament was set to take place in 2009, however, a congested fixture list and postponement of the 2009 Champions Trophy saw the tournament get called off. While no date has been finalised for the relaunch of the Afro-Asia Cup, it is expected that it could return only after the World Test Championship (WTC) final in June 2025 as the cricketing calendar is congested.

Afro-Asia Cup set for return after two decades as Africa Cricket Association takes formal steps

Ace Indian spinner and Test veteran Ravichandran Ashwin could return to his former IPL side, Chennai Super Kings, before the upcoming season. Per the latest report, Ashwin is on CSK's bucket list as the IPL 2025 mega auction looms.&nbsp;

CSK retained five players, including their captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, Matheesha Pathirana and MS Dhoni (as an uncapped player), and now they have a huge pool of players to fill, with Ashwin being one of them, per Times of India (TOI). Moreover, New Zealand opener Devon Conway is Chennai’s top choice for the Right to Match (RTM) card at the mega auction, the final date and venue of which are undecided yet.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/najmul-hossain-shanto-to-continue-as-bangladesh-captain-for-afghanistan-odis-772648">Najmul Hossain Shanto to continue as Bangladesh captain for Afghanistan ODIs</a>

Chennai let go of several superstars, including the Kiwis trio of Conway, Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell, two of which they bought ahead of IPL 2024. Though CSK failed to reach the playoffs the previous season, Rachin and Mitchell were among the runs for the franchise. While the left-handed Ravindra scored 222 runs with the bat, his highest being 61, Mitchell smashed 318 runs from 13 outings.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Conway, who missed the previous season with an injury, was CSK’s top scorer in IPL 2023, hitting 672 runs and striking at nearly 140 (139.71). He scored nine fifties, with his best being 92*. Chennai won the IPL that year, equalling Mumbai Indians’ record for most IPL titles (5).

Meanwhile, Chennai’s top picks would be a top-order Indian batter and an experienced pacer to lead the attack. CSK let go of Shardul Thakur, Tushar Deshpande, Deepak Chahar and Simarjeet Singh, alongside Sri Lankan T20 spinner Maheesh Theekshana.

Given how much CSK values loyalty and considering their pattern during previous IPL auctions, wherein they chased their core players, they are likely to go after the same set of players this time.&nbsp;

<h2>Rishabh Pant to CSK?</h2>

Having left with INR 55 crores in their auction purse, CSK are reportedly keen to get Rishabh Pant on board at the upcoming auction. &nbsp;

Though they have set a separate budget for Pant, CSK is believed to not go beyond the INR 25 crore mark. Given MS Dhoni’s stance in the league, with his IPL career in the twilight stage, Chennai will aim to bring a high-profile keeper-batter to replace him.&nbsp;

With Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul among the top Indian cricketers to enter the IPL 2025 mega auction, Chennai could be competing with several franchises over bagging the services of any of them should they fail to get Pant on the board.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ace Indian spinner and Test veteran Ravichandran Ashwin could return to his former IPL side, Chennai Super Kings, before the upcoming season. Per the latest report, Ashwin is on CSK's bucket list as the IPL 2025 mega auction looms.

Ace Indian spinner and Test veteran Ravichandran Ashwin could return to his former IPL side, Chennai Super Kings, before the upcoming season. Per the latest report, Ashwin is on CSK's bucket list as the IPL 2025 mega auction looms. CSK retained five players, including their captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, Matheesha Pathirana and MS Dhoni (as an uncapped player), and now they have a huge pool of players to fill, with Ashwin being one of them, per Times of India (TOI). Moreover, New Zealand opener Devon Conway is Chennai’s top choice for the Right to Match (RTM) card at the mega auction, the final date and venue of which are undecided yet. ALSO READ: Najmul Hossain Shanto to continue as Bangladesh captain for Afghanistan ODIs Chennai let go of several superstars, including the Kiwis trio of Conway, Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell, two of which they bought ahead of IPL 2024. Though CSK failed to reach the playoffs the previous season, Rachin and Mitchell were among the runs for the franchise. While the left-handed Ravindra scored 222 runs with the bat, his highest being 61, Mitchell smashed 318 runs from 13 outings. On the other hand, Conway, who missed the previous season with an injury, was CSK’s top scorer in IPL 2023, hitting 672 runs and striking at nearly 140 (139.71). He scored nine fifties, with his best being 92*. Chennai won the IPL that year, equalling Mumbai Indians’ record for most IPL titles (5). Meanwhile, Chennai’s top picks would be a top-order Indian batter and an experienced pacer to lead the attack. CSK let go of Shardul Thakur, Tushar Deshpande, Deepak Chahar and Simarjeet Singh, alongside Sri Lankan T20 spinner Maheesh Theekshana. Given how much CSK values loyalty and considering their pattern during previous IPL auctions, wherein they chased their core players, they are likely to go after the same set of players this time. Rishabh Pant to CSK? Having left with INR 55 crores in their auction purse, CSK are reportedly keen to get Rishabh Pant on board at the upcoming auction. Though they have set a separate budget for Pant, CSK is believed to not go beyond the INR 25 crore mark. Given MS Dhoni’s stance in the league, with his IPL career in the twilight stage, Chennai will aim to bring a high-profile keeper-batter to replace him. With Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul among the top Indian cricketers to enter the IPL 2025 mega auction, Chennai could be competing with several franchises over bagging the services of any of them should they fail to get Pant on the board. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Ashwin on CSK’s bucket list as franchise looks to use RTM for THIS Kiwi star - Reports

Curtains were finally lifted on the Indian Premier League (IPL) retentions as all 10 franchises made their first move for the next season. One of the big names in the conversation was Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend who will don the IPL hat in its 18th season in 2025. While the retention is a big bonus for fans, the franchise could pay a big prize for a player who turned 43 in July. So will the CSK move to retain a player of Dhoni’s caliber pay off?

<h2>Background</h2>

At 43, it is unlikely that Dhoni will play for CSK for the next three years and could have paved the way for another uncapped retention had he decided to retire. However, his retention under the uncapped player rule means the franchise will lose only ₹40 million ($480,000) from their spending purse. After IPL 2024, Tushar Deshpande and young Rajvardhan Hangargekar could have been at the top of the list for CSK had the uncapped rule not changed.

But the new rule meant that MS Dhoni who had not played international cricket for five years was eligible as an uncapped player while Tushar’s two international caps during the Zimbabwe tour made him eligible. This left CSK franchise to decide on either Hangargekar or Dhoni to get retained. Part of the Indian U-19 World Cup winning squad in 2022, Hangargekar was paid a whopping ₹15 million ($180,000) at the auctions. However, since his move, he has been a squad player and not of more commercial value.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/full-list-of-ipl-2025-retentions-dhoni-stays-at-csk-as-uncapped-rohit-virat-retained-on-deadline-day-772345">Full list of IPL 2025 retentions: Dhoni stays at CSK as uncapped; Rohit, Virat retained on deadline day</a>

<h2>Why does MS Dhoni's retention at CSK make sense?</h2>

With Hangargekar also out of sight, CSK’s only option technically was MS Dhoni and they bought him for cheap. While he won’t be a great contributor on the field, his presence in the team is of great commercial value to the side and the Indian Premier League. Even at 43, Dhoni’s commercial value attracts a huge fan base and TRP for television.

In IPL 2024, fans were seen splashing a big sum on travel, tickets and merchandise to get a glimpse of Dhoni. On the other hand, Jio, a digital streaming partner of IPL had a special ‘star-cam’ for Dhoni during his IPL matches which solely focused on him. This contributed to the TRP and digital ratings of the channel.

While figures can’t be confirmed, Dhoni’s presence generates a big sum (likely to be 20 times his current value) for both CSK and IPL and other sponsors, making his move a commercial success rather than an on-field success. &nbsp;

Curtains were finally lifted on the Indian Premier League (IPL) retentions as all 10 franchises made their first move for the next season. One of the big names in the conversation was Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend who will don the IPL hat in its 18th season in 2025.

Curtains were finally lifted on the Indian Premier League (IPL) retentions as all 10 franchises made their first move for the next season. One of the big names in the conversation was Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend who will don the IPL hat in its 18th season in 2025. While the retention is a big bonus for fans, the franchise could pay a big prize for a player who turned 43 in July. So will the CSK move to retain a player of Dhoni’s caliber pay off? Background At 43, it is unlikely that Dhoni will play for CSK for the next three years and could have paved the way for another uncapped retention had he decided to retire. However, his retention under the uncapped player rule means the franchise will lose only ₹40 million ($480,000) from their spending purse. After IPL 2024, Tushar Deshpande and young Rajvardhan Hangargekar could have been at the top of the list for CSK had the uncapped rule not changed. But the new rule meant that MS Dhoni who had not played international cricket for five years was eligible as an uncapped player while Tushar’s two international caps during the Zimbabwe tour made him eligible. This left CSK franchise to decide on either Hangargekar or Dhoni to get retained. Part of the Indian U-19 World Cup winning squad in 2022, Hangargekar was paid a whopping ₹15 million ($180,000) at the auctions. However, since his move, he has been a squad player and not of more commercial value. ALSO READ | Full list of IPL 2025 retentions: Dhoni stays at CSK as uncapped; Rohit, Virat retained on deadline day Why does MS Dhoni's retention at CSK make sense? With Hangargekar also out of sight, CSK’s only option technically was MS Dhoni and they bought him for cheap. While he won’t be a great contributor on the field, his presence in the team is of great commercial value to the side and the Indian Premier League. Even at 43, Dhoni’s commercial value attracts a huge fan base and TRP for television. In IPL 2024, fans were seen splashing a big sum on travel, tickets and merchandise to get a glimpse of Dhoni. On the other hand, Jio, a digital streaming partner of IPL had a special ‘star-cam’ for Dhoni during his IPL matches which solely focused on him. This contributed to the TRP and digital ratings of the channel. While figures can’t be confirmed, Dhoni’s presence generates a big sum (likely to be 20 times his current value) for both CSK and IPL and other sponsors, making his move a commercial success rather than an on-field success.

IPL 2025: CSK land MS Dhoni as 'uncapped' player, but does the move make any sense?

It was a chaotic deadline day in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as all 10 franchises announced their retentions for the 2025 season on Thursday (Oct 31).&nbsp; While there were few surprises in the form of Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul getting axed, the rest of the retentions were predicted as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni will stay at their respective sides and won’t enter the auctions. With a busy day at the office on Diwali, here is a full list of retentions and Right to Match (RTM) left for each team ahead of the mega auction.

<h2>IPL 2025 Retentions by each team</h2>

<h2>Delhi Capitals:</h2>

Capped: Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav and&nbsp;Tristan Stubbs

Uncapped: Abishek Porel

RTM Available: 2

<h2>Mumbai Indians</h2>

Capped: Jasprit Bumrah, Surya Kumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Rohit Sharma&nbsp;and Tilak Varma&nbsp;

Uncapped:&nbsp;None

RTM Available: 1

<h2>Punjab Kings</h2>

Capped: Prabhsimran Singh and Shashank Singh

Uncapped:&nbsp;None

RTM Available: 4

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-delhi-capitals-rishabh-pant-part-ways-as-star-batter-to-enter-auction-4-players-retained-772240">IPL 2025: Delhi Capitals, Rishabh Pant part ways as star batter to enter auction, 4 players retained</a>

<h2>Chennai Super Kings</h2>

Capped: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube and&nbsp;Matheesha Pathirana

Uncapped:&nbsp;MS Dhoni

RTM Available: 1

<h2>Kolkata Knight Riders</h2>

Capped: Sunil Narine, Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Varun Chakaravarthy and&nbsp;Harshit Rana

Uncapped:&nbsp;Ramandeep Singh.

RTM Available: 0

<h2>Rajasthan Royals</h2>

Capped: Sanju Samson, Riyan Parag, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel and Shimron Hetmyer.

Uncapped:&nbsp;Sandeep Sharma

RTM Available: 0

<h2>SunRisers Hyderabad</h2>

Capped: Heinrich Klaasen, Pat Cummins, Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma and Nitish Kumar Reddy

Uncapped:&nbsp;None

RTM Available: 1

<h2>Gujarat Titans</h2>

Capped: Rashid Khan, Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan&nbsp;and Rahul Tewatia

Uncapped:&nbsp;Shahrukh Khan

RTM Available: 1

<h2>Lucknow Super Giants</h2>

Capped: Nicholas Pooran, Mayank Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi and Ayush Badoni.

Uncapped:&nbsp;Mohsin Khan

RTM Available: 1

<h2>Royal Challengers Bengaluru</h2>

Capped: Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar.

Uncapped:&nbsp;Yash Dayal

RTM Available: 3

It was a chaotic deadline day in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as all 10 franchises announced their retentions for the 2025 season on Thursday (Oct 31). While there were few surprises in the form of Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul getting axed, the rest of the retentions were predicted as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni will stay at their respective sides and won’t enter the auctions.

It was a chaotic deadline day in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as all 10 franchises announced their retentions for the 2025 season on Thursday (Oct 31). While there were few surprises in the form of Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul getting axed, the rest of the retentions were predicted as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni will stay at their respective sides and won’t enter the auctions. With a busy day at the office on Diwali, here is a full list of retentions and Right to Match (RTM) left for each team ahead of the mega auction. IPL 2025 Retentions by each team Delhi Capitals: Capped: Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav and Tristan Stubbs Uncapped: Abishek Porel RTM Available: 2 Mumbai Indians Capped: Jasprit Bumrah, Surya Kumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Rohit Sharma and Tilak Varma Uncapped: None RTM Available: 1 Punjab Kings Capped: Prabhsimran Singh and Shashank Singh Uncapped: None RTM Available: 4 ALSO READ | IPL 2025: Delhi Capitals, Rishabh Pant part ways as star batter to enter auction, 4 players retained Chennai Super Kings Capped: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube and Matheesha Pathirana Uncapped: MS Dhoni RTM Available: 1 Kolkata Knight Riders Capped: Sunil Narine, Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Varun Chakaravarthy and Harshit Rana Uncapped: Ramandeep Singh. RTM Available: 0 Rajasthan Royals Capped: Sanju Samson, Riyan Parag, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel and Shimron Hetmyer. Uncapped: Sandeep Sharma RTM Available: 0 SunRisers Hyderabad Capped: Heinrich Klaasen, Pat Cummins, Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma and Nitish Kumar Reddy Uncapped: None RTM Available: 1 Gujarat Titans Capped: Rashid Khan, Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan and Rahul Tewatia Uncapped: Shahrukh Khan RTM Available: 1 Lucknow Super Giants Capped: Nicholas Pooran, Mayank Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi and Ayush Badoni. Uncapped: Mohsin Khan RTM Available: 1 Royal Challengers Bengaluru Capped: Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar. Uncapped: Yash Dayal RTM Available: 3

Full list of IPL 2025 retentions: Dhoni stays at CSK as uncapped; Rohit, Virat retained on deadline day

With the countdown for the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season already begun, all ten franchises are ready to splash the cash on big names with the auctions set to take place in the upcoming weeks. While all eyes remain on the IPL 2025 auctions, it is the player retention deadline day that has taken the spotlight as all ten franchises are set to announce their retentions before the Thursday (Oct 31) deadline. Here is all you need to know about the IPL 2025 retention deadline day including players, squads, etc.

<h2>What time will the IPL 2025 retention window close?</h2>

The IPL 2025 retention window will close at 5:00 PM IST on October 31.&nbsp;

<h2>How many players can be retained by each franchise for IPL 2025?</h2>

A franchise can retain up to five capped and one uncapped player on retention values set by the BCCI.

<h2>How many Right to Match (RTM) cards be used by a franchise?</h2>

A team can retain five capped players while a team unable to retain the rest will be eligible for RTM for the remaining slots.&nbsp;

<h2>When are the IPL 2025 mega auctions?</h2>

The dates for IPL 2025 are yet to be fixed with probable dates set for November last week or December first week.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-delhi-capitals-rishabh-pant-part-ways-as-star-batter-to-enter-auction-4-players-retained-772240">IPL 2025: Delhi Capitals, Rishabh Pant part ways as star batter to enter auction, 4 players retained</a>

<h2>Retained players so far</h2>

<h2>Delhi Capitals:</h2>

Capped: Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav and&nbsp;Tristan Stubbs

Uncapped: Abishek Porel

RTM Available: 2

<h2>Mumbai Indians</h2>

Capped: Jasprit Bumrah, Surya Kumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Rohit Sharma&nbsp;and Tilak Varma&nbsp;

Uncapped:&nbsp;None

RTM Available: 1

<h2>Punjab Kings</h2>

Capped: Prabhsimran Singh and Shashank Singh

Uncapped:&nbsp;None

RTM Available: 4

<h2>Chennai Super Kings</h2>

Capped: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube and&nbsp;Matheesha Pathirana

Uncapped:&nbsp;MS Dhoni

RTM Available: 1

<h2>Kolkata Knight Riders</h2>

Capped: Sunil Narine, Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Varun Chakaravarthy and&nbsp;Harshit Rana

Uncapped:&nbsp;Ramandeep Singh.

RTM Available: 0

<h2>Rajasthan Royals</h2>

Capped: Sanju Samson, Riyan Parag, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel and Shimron Hetmyer.

Uncapped:&nbsp;Sandeep Sharma

RTM Available: 0

<h2>SunRisers Hyderabad</h2>

Capped: Heinrich Klaasen, Pat Cummins, Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma and Nitish Kumar Reddy

Uncapped:&nbsp;None

RTM Available: 1

<h2>Gujarat Titans</h2>

Capped: Rashid Khan, Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan&nbsp;and Rahul Tewatia

Uncapped:&nbsp;Shahrukh Khan

RTM Available: 1

<h2>Lucknow Super Giants</h2>

Capped: Nicholas Pooran, Mayank Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi and Ayush Badoni.

Uncapped:&nbsp;Mohsin Khan

RTM Available: 1

<h2>Royal Challengers Bengaluru</h2>

Capped: Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar.

Uncapped:&nbsp;Yash Dayal

RTM Available: 3

With the countdown for the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season already begun, all ten franchises are ready to splash the cash on big names with the auctions set to take place in the upcoming weeks.

With the countdown for the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season already begun, all ten franchises are ready to splash the cash on big names with the auctions set to take place in the upcoming weeks. While all eyes remain on the IPL 2025 auctions, it is the player retention deadline day that has taken the spotlight as all ten franchises are set to announce their retentions before the Thursday (Oct 31) deadline. Here is all you need to know about the IPL 2025 retention deadline day including players, squads, etc. What time will the IPL 2025 retention window close? The IPL 2025 retention window will close at 5:00 PM IST on October 31. How many players can be retained by each franchise for IPL 2025? A franchise can retain up to five capped and one uncapped player on retention values set by the BCCI. How many Right to Match (RTM) cards be used by a franchise? A team can retain five capped players while a team unable to retain the rest will be eligible for RTM for the remaining slots. When are the IPL 2025 mega auctions? The dates for IPL 2025 are yet to be fixed with probable dates set for November last week or December first week. ALSO READ | IPL 2025: Delhi Capitals, Rishabh Pant part ways as star batter to enter auction, 4 players retained Retained players so far Delhi Capitals: Capped: Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav and Tristan Stubbs Uncapped: Abishek Porel RTM Available: 2 Mumbai Indians Capped: Jasprit Bumrah, Surya Kumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Rohit Sharma and Tilak Varma Uncapped: None RTM Available: 1 Punjab Kings Capped: Prabhsimran Singh and Shashank Singh Uncapped: None RTM Available: 4 Chennai Super Kings Capped: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube and Matheesha Pathirana Uncapped: MS Dhoni RTM Available: 1 Kolkata Knight Riders Capped: Sunil Narine, Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Varun Chakaravarthy and Harshit Rana Uncapped: Ramandeep Singh. RTM Available: 0 Rajasthan Royals Capped: Sanju Samson, Riyan Parag, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel and Shimron Hetmyer. Uncapped: Sandeep Sharma RTM Available: 0 SunRisers Hyderabad Capped: Heinrich Klaasen, Pat Cummins, Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma and Nitish Kumar Reddy Uncapped: None RTM Available: 1 Gujarat Titans Capped: Rashid Khan, Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan and Rahul Tewatia Uncapped: Shahrukh Khan RTM Available: 1 Lucknow Super Giants Capped: Nicholas Pooran, Mayank Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi and Ayush Badoni. Uncapped: Mohsin Khan RTM Available: 1 Royal Challengers Bengaluru Capped: Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar. Uncapped: Yash Dayal RTM Available: 3

IPL Retention Deadline Day: MI retain senior pros Bumrah, Rohit; Hardik to lead

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are all set to retain MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube and Sri Lanka fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana ahead of October 31 deadline. With five retentions, they'll be left with one right-to-match (RTM) option at the upcoming mega auction.

The amount at which CSK will retain players is not out yet but they are expected to spend around INR 65 crore (around US $8 million) out of the total budget of INR 120 crore (US $14 million). The development was reported by cricket news website ESPNCricinfo which also suggested that Dhoni will be retained as an uncapped player.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/not-rishabh-pant-former-aussie-skipper-tim-paine-says-this-batter-helped-india-win-on-last-tour-772060">Not Rishabh Pant! Former Aussie skipper Tim Paine says THIS batter helped India win on last tour</a>

Recently, MS Dhoni was asked about his lingering retirement from the cash-rich T20 league and had said that he'd like to 'enjoy last few years.'

“I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I can play,” the 43-year-old had said at a promotional event, as quoted by Times of India.

“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,” he continued.

The IPL has revived the rule under which a player who has not played for India for last five years in any format (or retired for five years) will be considered as an uncapped player.

All 10 teams have a total of six retention and RTM options, which they can use in a combination as well. For example, if a team retains only one player, then&nbsp;it'll have five RTM options at the auction and vice versa.

The mega auction is expected to take place some time next month, with many big names up for grabs by all 10 teams.

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are all set to retain MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube and Sri Lanka fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana ahead of October 31 deadline.

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are all set to retain MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube and Sri Lanka fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana ahead of October 31 deadline. With five retentions, they'll be left with one right-to-match (RTM) option at the upcoming mega auction. The amount at which CSK will retain players is not out yet but they are expected to spend around INR 65 crore (around US $8 million) out of the total budget of INR 120 crore (US $14 million). The development was reported by cricket news website ESPNCricinfo which also suggested that Dhoni will be retained as an uncapped player. Also Read: Not Rishabh Pant! Former Aussie skipper Tim Paine says THIS batter helped India win on last tour Recently, MS Dhoni was asked about his lingering retirement from the cash-rich T20 league and had said that he'd like to 'enjoy last few years.' “I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I can play,” the 43-year-old had said at a promotional event, as quoted by Times of India. “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,” he continued. The IPL has revived the rule under which a player who has not played for India for last five years in any format (or retired for five years) will be considered as an uncapped player. All 10 teams have a total of six retention and RTM options, which they can use in a combination as well. For example, if a team retains only one player, then it'll have five RTM options at the auction and vice versa. The mega auction is expected to take place some time next month, with many big names up for grabs by all 10 teams.

CSK to retain Dhoni, Jadeja, Gaikwad and Dube along with SL's Pathirana ahead of mega auction

Talismanic India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) great Mahendra Singh Dhoni has dropped a massive hint on his Indian Premier League (IPL) future with the mega auction looming. Days before the deadline (Oct 31) end for all ten teams to submit their retention list, Dhoni addressed questions surrounding his future in the cash-rich league.

Having relinquished his IPL captaincy on the eve of the last season, Dhoni played as a batter, though with a troubling knee. In 14 contested matches in IPL 2024, Dhoni scored 161 runs at a whopping strike rate of over 220, hitting 13 sixes and 14 fours during brief stays at the crease.&nbsp;

Dhoni, 43, remains an integral part of the CSK group, taking all decisions, from deciding the playing XIs to preparing the strategies to take a call on whom to retain. With the IPL 2025 mega auction just around the corner, to be staged in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in the final week of November, Dhoni is yet to take a call on his future.

Per the franchise’s CEO, Kasi Viswanathan, Dhoni will wait until the last moment before announcing his decision.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;‘<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harshit-rana-is-completely-gautam-gambhirs-choice-bcci-source-on-squad-selection-for-australia-tests-770839">Harshit Rana's selection for BGT is completely Gambhir’s choice’ – BCCI source ahead of Australia Tests</a>

"We have still no confirmation from him, though we will like him to continue playing for us," Viswanathan said in a chat with ESPNcricinfo. "Hope he will confirm before 31st [October]."

<h2>IPL rule change makes it easier for Dhoni</h2>

Meanwhile, thanks to the addition of an IPL rule that got scrapped in 2021, which reads that any Indian player who last played an international game at least five years before the retention date is eligible to play under the uncapped player category. MS Dhoni, whose final match for India came during the 2019 World Cup, qualifies to play as an uncapped player this year.

Although the BCCI has provided a minimum retention cap for five players (order-wise), every team can retain an uncapped player for INR 4 crore.

“I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I can play,” MS Dhoni said in a promotional event for a software brand, as quoted by Times of India.

“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,” he continued.&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings haven’t announced their retention list yet, with SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) being the only franchise to indicate who would be retained ahead of next season.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Talismanic India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) great Mahendra Singh Dhoni has dropped a massive hint on his Indian Premier League (IPL) future with the mega auction looming.

Talismanic India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) great Mahendra Singh Dhoni has dropped a massive hint on his Indian Premier League (IPL) future with the mega auction looming. Days before the deadline (Oct 31) end for all ten teams to submit their retention list, Dhoni addressed questions surrounding his future in the cash-rich league. Having relinquished his IPL captaincy on the eve of the last season, Dhoni played as a batter, though with a troubling knee. In 14 contested matches in IPL 2024, Dhoni scored 161 runs at a whopping strike rate of over 220, hitting 13 sixes and 14 fours during brief stays at the crease. Dhoni, 43, remains an integral part of the CSK group, taking all decisions, from deciding the playing XIs to preparing the strategies to take a call on whom to retain. With the IPL 2025 mega auction just around the corner, to be staged in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in the final week of November, Dhoni is yet to take a call on his future. Per the franchise’s CEO, Kasi Viswanathan, Dhoni will wait until the last moment before announcing his decision. ALSO READ: ‘Harshit Rana's selection for BGT is completely Gambhir’s choice’ – BCCI source ahead of Australia Tests "We have still no confirmation from him, though we will like him to continue playing for us," Viswanathan said in a chat with ESPNcricinfo. "Hope he will confirm before 31st [October]." IPL rule change makes it easier for Dhoni Meanwhile, thanks to the addition of an IPL rule that got scrapped in 2021, which reads that any Indian player who last played an international game at least five years before the retention date is eligible to play under the uncapped player category. MS Dhoni, whose final match for India came during the 2019 World Cup, qualifies to play as an uncapped player this year. Although the BCCI has provided a minimum retention cap for five players (order-wise), every team can retain an uncapped player for INR 4 crore. “I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I can play,” MS Dhoni said in a promotional event for a software brand, as quoted by Times of India. “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,” he continued. Chennai Super Kings haven’t announced their retention list yet, with SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) being the only franchise to indicate who would be retained ahead of next season. (With inputs from agencies)

MS Dhoni drops major hint on IPL future ahead of auction - ‘I just want to enjoy whatever last few years...’

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni remains undecided on his IPL future yet, according to the franchise’s CEO Kasi Viswanathan, who says that they hope he (Dhoni) gives his confirmation before the submission deadline (Oct 31). Per the latest reports, CSK's top brass is awaiting Dhoni’s decision before listing their retention list ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction later next month.

"We have still no confirmation from him, though we will like him to continue playing for us," Viswanathan said in a chat with ESPNcricinfo. "Hope he will confirm before 31st [October]."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-2nd-test-should-india-replace-mohammed-siraj-with-akash-deep-former-indian-stumper-opines-769421">Ind vs NZ, 2nd Test: Should India replace Mohammed Siraj with Akash Deep? Former Indian stumper opines</a>

Meanwhile, the IPL’s governing council and the BCCI kept October 31 as the deadline for all teams to submit their final retention list.&nbsp;

With the reintroduction of an IPL rule, scrapped in 2021, any player who last played for his country at least five years ago is eligible to play as an uncapped player. MS Dhoni, who announced his international retirement on August 20, 2020, ticks this box, becoming eligible to play as an uncapped player for CSK should he be retained.

While Dhoni’s last international tournament was the 2019 ODI World Cup in England, which the hosts won, Dhoni played in the cash-rich league since.&nbsp;

Before the start of IPL 2024, Dhoni relinquished the CSK captaincy, handing over the baton to opener Ruturaj Gaikwad. In his first season as the new CSK skipper, Gaikwad failed to guide CSK to the playoffs.

MS Dhoni, however, with a troubled knee, scored 161 runs at a whopping strike rate of 220 as a finisher.

<h2>For how much can CSK retain MS Dhoni?</h2>

Should MS give a green signal about his IPL 2025 participation, CSK would retain their former captain for just INR 4 crore from the 120-crore auction purse.

All 10 IPL teams are allowed to retain a maximum of six players ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction, of which a maximum of five can be capped internationals, leaving room for an uncapped player.&nbsp;

Besides, the IPL has set the minimum deduction from the purse auction for each player retained (order wise) – with the first player to cost a franchise INR 18 crore, the second INR 14 crore, INR 11 crore for the third one, INR 18 crore for the next, and INR 14 crore for the fifth and final player, though the teams are free to pay more than these figures to their retained players.

Last-year runners-up, SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH), is the only team to have made their retention list public, with them paying INR 23 crore to Heinrich Klaasen, INR 18 crore to their captain Pat Cummins, and INR 14 crore to opener Abhishek Sharma.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni remains undecided on his IPL future yet, according to the franchise’s CEO Kasi Viswanathan, who says that they hope he (Dhoni) gives his confirmation before the submission deadline (Oct 31).

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni remains undecided on his IPL future yet, according to the franchise’s CEO Kasi Viswanathan, who says that they hope he (Dhoni) gives his confirmation before the submission deadline (Oct 31). Per the latest reports, CSK's top brass is awaiting Dhoni’s decision before listing their retention list ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction later next month. "We have still no confirmation from him, though we will like him to continue playing for us," Viswanathan said in a chat with ESPNcricinfo. "Hope he will confirm before 31st [October]." ALSO READ: Ind vs NZ, 2nd Test: Should India replace Mohammed Siraj with Akash Deep? Former Indian stumper opines Meanwhile, the IPL’s governing council and the BCCI kept October 31 as the deadline for all teams to submit their final retention list. With the reintroduction of an IPL rule, scrapped in 2021, any player who last played for his country at least five years ago is eligible to play as an uncapped player. MS Dhoni, who announced his international retirement on August 20, 2020, ticks this box, becoming eligible to play as an uncapped player for CSK should he be retained. While Dhoni’s last international tournament was the 2019 ODI World Cup in England, which the hosts won, Dhoni played in the cash-rich league since. Before the start of IPL 2024, Dhoni relinquished the CSK captaincy, handing over the baton to opener Ruturaj Gaikwad. In his first season as the new CSK skipper, Gaikwad failed to guide CSK to the playoffs. MS Dhoni, however, with a troubled knee, scored 161 runs at a whopping strike rate of 220 as a finisher. For how much can CSK retain MS Dhoni? Should MS give a green signal about his IPL 2025 participation, CSK would retain their former captain for just INR 4 crore from the 120-crore auction purse. All 10 IPL teams are allowed to retain a maximum of six players ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction, of which a maximum of five can be capped internationals, leaving room for an uncapped player. Besides, the IPL has set the minimum deduction from the purse auction for each player retained (order wise) – with the first player to cost a franchise INR 18 crore, the second INR 14 crore, INR 11 crore for the third one, INR 18 crore for the next, and INR 14 crore for the fifth and final player, though the teams are free to pay more than these figures to their retained players. Last-year runners-up, SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH), is the only team to have made their retention list public, with them paying INR 23 crore to Heinrich Klaasen, INR 18 crore to their captain Pat Cummins, and INR 14 crore to opener Abhishek Sharma. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Hope he will confirm…’ - MS Dhoni undecided over IPL 2025 participation, says CSK's Kasi Viswanathan

Day 2 of the first Test between India and New Zealand was a horrid day for the hosts, with Rohit Sharma-led team bundling out for 46 (their lowest-score at home) after opting to bat first in Bengaluru. Virat Kohli, at No. 3, departed for 0 as his form continues to pose questions. Despite his forgettable outing, Kohli registered a massive record. He is featuring in his 536th international game and, hence, went past former captain MS Dhoni (535) to become India's second-most capped player. The list is led by Sachin Tendulkar (with 664 games).

<h2>Most internationals for India</h2>

Sachin Tendulkar - 664 games 
Virat Kohli - 536 games 
MS Dhoni - 535 games 
Rahul Dravid - 504 games 
Rohit Sharma - 486 games

Kohli has had a remarkable run at the international level since his debut in 2008. In 116 Tests, 295 ODIs and 125 T20Is, he has amassed 27,041 international runs so far.

Among the active players, Kohli is followed by Test and ODI captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja,&nbsp;playing their 486th and 346th&nbsp;game respectively.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-nz-1st-test-rohit-sharma-admits-misjudging-bengaluru-pitch-after-horror-show-with-bat-on-day-2-768447">IND v NZ 1st Test: Rohit Sharma admits ‘misjudging’ Bengaluru pitch after horror show with bat on day 2</a>

Talking about the Bengaluru Test, at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Day 1 was washed out but Day 2 proved to be a nightmare for India. Despite winning the toss in overcast conditions, India opted to bat first and paid the price by being all-out for 46, with five ducks. At stumps, NZ are 180 for 3, leading by 134 runs, following opener Devon Conway's 91.

Day 3, on Friday (Oct 18), will prove to be a litmus test for India as they trail behind. For NZ, the Tom Latham-led side will look to extend their lead and push India towards an innings defeat.

Day 2 of the first Test between India and New Zealand was a horrid day for the hosts, with Rohit Sharma-led team bundling out for 46 (their lowest-score at home) after opting to bat first in Bengaluru.

Day 2 of the first Test between India and New Zealand was a horrid day for the hosts, with Rohit Sharma-led team bundling out for 46 (their lowest-score at home) after opting to bat first in Bengaluru. Virat Kohli, at No. 3, departed for 0 as his form continues to pose questions. Despite his forgettable outing, Kohli registered a massive record. He is featuring in his 536th international game and, hence, went past former captain MS Dhoni (535) to become India's second-most capped player. The list is led by Sachin Tendulkar (with 664 games). Most internationals for India Sachin Tendulkar - 664 games Virat Kohli - 536 games MS Dhoni - 535 games Rahul Dravid - 504 games Rohit Sharma - 486 games Kohli has had a remarkable run at the international level since his debut in 2008. In 116 Tests, 295 ODIs and 125 T20Is, he has amassed 27,041 international runs so far. Among the active players, Kohli is followed by Test and ODI captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, playing their 486th and 346th game respectively. Also read: IND v NZ 1st Test: Rohit Sharma admits ‘misjudging’ Bengaluru pitch after horror show with bat on day 2 Talking about the Bengaluru Test, at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Day 1 was washed out but Day 2 proved to be a nightmare for India. Despite winning the toss in overcast conditions, India opted to bat first and paid the price by being all-out for 46, with five ducks. At stumps, NZ are 180 for 3, leading by 134 runs, following opener Devon Conway's 91. Day 3, on Friday (Oct 18), will prove to be a litmus test for India as they trail behind. For NZ, the Tom Latham-led side will look to extend their lead and push India towards an innings defeat.

Ind vs NZ, 1st Test: Virat Kohli surpasses MS Dhoni to become India's second-most-capped player

Former India player Mohammed Kaif has taken a slight dig at the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) after commenting on the recently amended policy for Indian Premier League (IPL) retentions. According to Kaif, the rules will keep changing for veteran player MS Dhoni as he is on the verge of playing one more season for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL.

<h2>Kaif takes a dig at BCCI</h2>

"You will get the chance to see MS Dhoni again. He is fit, batting at a strike rate of 200, keeping well, and that is why I believe the rules will keep changing till he wants to play. If he wants to play in the IPL, he will play. He is such a big player, such a big match-winner, and has been a leader for CSK," said Kaif on Star Sports.

On Saturday the BCCI approved five retentions per side along with a Right to Match (RTM) card in the mega-auctions that could take place in the next couple of months. It is the biggest retention ever offered as teams prepare for a shake-up before the IPL 2025 season.

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The five retained players will cost INR 750 million ($9mn) for IPL teams and can retain as many as six players from their current squad. There is no cap on Indian and foreign players as franchises like Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings can breathe a sigh of relief as they face complications in retaining their star names.

<h2>Dhoni set for another season?</h2>

Now that the policy is approved, Dhoni’s retention with CSK is set to go smoothly as they will still have four other slots to retain other big players like Ravindra Jadeja, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Maheesh Theekshana and Moeen Ali. It is a similar case for Mumbai Indians with star names like Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan and current skipper Hardik Pandya in the ranks.

Former India player Mohammed Kaif has taken a slight dig at the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) after commenting on the recently amended policy for Indian Premier League (IPL) retentions.

Former India player Mohammed Kaif has taken a slight dig at the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) after commenting on the recently amended policy for Indian Premier League (IPL) retentions. According to Kaif, the rules will keep changing for veteran player MS Dhoni as he is on the verge of playing one more season for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL. Kaif takes a dig at BCCI "You will get the chance to see MS Dhoni again. He is fit, batting at a strike rate of 200, keeping well, and that is why I believe the rules will keep changing till he wants to play. If he wants to play in the IPL, he will play. He is such a big player, such a big match-winner, and has been a leader for CSK," said Kaif on Star Sports. On Saturday the BCCI approved five retentions per side along with a Right to Match (RTM) card in the mega-auctions that could take place in the next couple of months. It is the biggest retention ever offered as teams prepare for a shake-up before the IPL 2025 season. ALSO READ | Women’s T20 World Cup 2024: Hosts Bangladesh beat Scotland in opener The five retained players will cost INR 750 million ($9mn) for IPL teams and can retain as many as six players from their current squad. There is no cap on Indian and foreign players as franchises like Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings can breathe a sigh of relief as they face complications in retaining their star names. Dhoni set for another season? Now that the policy is approved, Dhoni’s retention with CSK is set to go smoothly as they will still have four other slots to retain other big players like Ravindra Jadeja, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Maheesh Theekshana and Moeen Ali. It is a similar case for Mumbai Indians with star names like Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan and current skipper Hardik Pandya in the ranks.

'Rules will keep changing for MS Dhoni': Mohammed Kaif takes dig at BCCI for after-retention policy amendment

Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni are the two most successful IPL captains, having won five titles each with Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), respectively. Even though both share common leadership traits and have tactical heads over their shoulders, Rohit’s MI had outdone Dhoni’s CSK in three IPL finals.&nbsp;

Harbhajan Singh, the former multi-time IPL winner and among the handful of players who represented both franchises, revealed why Mumbai Indians were better than Dhoni's CSK in crunch situations.

Though CSK’s maiden title came in 2010 when they beat the home side (Mumbai Indians), the Mumbai-based outfit beat CSK in three IPL finals since (2013, 2015 and 2019), with Rohit leading against Dhoni on all occasions.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-v-eng-2024-ben-stokes-doubtful-for-first-test-against-pakistan-zak-crawley-declared-fit-764504">PAK v ENG 2024: Ben Stokes doubtful for first Test against Pakistan, Zak Crawley declared fit</a>

So, what did they do better to go one step ahead of the genius of MS Dhoni? Harbhajan Singh explains.

“The tricks Dhoni used to come up with, we worked to find a solution,” Harbhajan said in a chat with Sports Yaari. “In pressure situations, MI did better than CSK. When I left MI to join CSK, I got a lot of love. Bowled well and won a championship, got a runners-up medal as well.”

“In that match (IPL 2018), Dwayne Bravo's magical batting and Kedar Jadhav's show earned CSK the title. Else, MI would've won again. To overcome Dhoni, you have to think better, play your cards better. It isn't easy. MI have done it as they had better players, and the planning was also good," Harbhajan noted while recalling the close group stage encounter between both teams in IPL 2018.

<h2>Rohit is no less than Dhoni</h2>

MS Dhoni is by far the only captain in cricket history to win three ICC titles, besides winning the Test mace in 2009. Since he left, first Virat Kohli and now Rohit Sharma have carried forward the legacy; Harbhajan feels like every captain Rohit tasted his share of success and no less than anyone regarding helping strengthen India’s stance on the world stage.

“Why do you compare the two? Dhoni led the team and took it forward; Rohit is also doing the same. Every cup you win, you put hope in others. That is important. The better captain is the one who inspires you to win. If we talk about achievements, Rohit is not lesser than Dhoni. Dada, Kohli, Dhoni, Rohit, everyone has contributed in their own way to take the team forward. Now, the fight is within to take the team even a step further," the former India spinner added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni are the two most successful IPL captains, having won five titles each with Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), respectively.

Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni are the two most successful IPL captains, having won five titles each with Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), respectively. Even though both share common leadership traits and have tactical heads over their shoulders, Rohit’s MI had outdone Dhoni’s CSK in three IPL finals. Harbhajan Singh, the former multi-time IPL winner and among the handful of players who represented both franchises, revealed why Mumbai Indians were better than Dhoni's CSK in crunch situations. Though CSK’s maiden title came in 2010 when they beat the home side (Mumbai Indians), the Mumbai-based outfit beat CSK in three IPL finals since (2013, 2015 and 2019), with Rohit leading against Dhoni on all occasions. ALSO READ: PAK v ENG 2024: Ben Stokes doubtful for first Test against Pakistan, Zak Crawley declared fit So, what did they do better to go one step ahead of the genius of MS Dhoni? Harbhajan Singh explains. “The tricks Dhoni used to come up with, we worked to find a solution,” Harbhajan said in a chat with Sports Yaari. “In pressure situations, MI did better than CSK. When I left MI to join CSK, I got a lot of love. Bowled well and won a championship, got a runners-up medal as well.” “In that match (IPL 2018), Dwayne Bravo's magical batting and Kedar Jadhav's show earned CSK the title. Else, MI would've won again. To overcome Dhoni, you have to think better, play your cards better. It isn't easy. MI have done it as they had better players, and the planning was also good," Harbhajan noted while recalling the close group stage encounter between both teams in IPL 2018. Rohit is no less than Dhoni MS Dhoni is by far the only captain in cricket history to win three ICC titles, besides winning the Test mace in 2009. Since he left, first Virat Kohli and now Rohit Sharma have carried forward the legacy; Harbhajan feels like every captain Rohit tasted his share of success and no less than anyone regarding helping strengthen India’s stance on the world stage. “Why do you compare the two? Dhoni led the team and took it forward; Rohit is also doing the same. Every cup you win, you put hope in others. That is important. The better captain is the one who inspires you to win. If we talk about achievements, Rohit is not lesser than Dhoni. Dada, Kohli, Dhoni, Rohit, everyone has contributed in their own way to take the team forward. Now, the fight is within to take the team even a step further," the former India spinner added. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Rohit is no less than Dhoni’ – Harbhajan Singh recalls how ‘MI tactics’ outdone MSD in three IPL finals

Former India cricketer Dinesh Karthik has broken the silence on the most-talked-about IPL rule mentioned in the latest regulations issued by the BCCI – the return of the ‘uncapped player rule’. Karthik says this rule, which was there since the tournament’s inception and later discarded in 2021, is brought back by the board for just one man, MS Dhoni.

<h2>What does this ‘uncapped player rule’ mean?</h2>

Per the BCCI and IPL’s latest guidelines issued for the 2025-2027 window, any Indian player who last appeared for the national side at least five years ago to the upcoming auction date will be considered an uncapped player and can be retained under the ‘uncapped player rule’ by each of the ten franchises.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tension-soars-in-after-pcb-media-director-shuts-reporter-for-disrespecting-shan-masood-watch-video-763583">PCB media director shuts reporter for 'disrespecting' Captain Shan Masood - Watch video</a>

Although not many options are available with each team, the former five-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have a golden chance to retain their ex-captain and marquee player MS Dhoni under the ‘uncapped player category’ ahead of the mega auction later this year.

Dhoni last played for India during the 2019 World Cup in England, and with him already completing more than five years since, he is eligible to fall under this bracket. What’s more than this? CSK doesn't have to splurge money on his retention since his IPL future remains uncertain and can retain him for INR 4 crore.

<h3>What did Karthik say?</h3>

Dinesh Karthik, who last played for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2024, said he understands why this rule has been brought back, and that, he understands the dynamics behind it.

"Everybody talks about it. This rule is made for one man, and I am for it through and through. This man has been such a major part of what this IPL has been about. If everybody is in a happy place - be it BCCI, be it any of the teams, be it how the league has performed over the years and how it has kept players so happy over the last 15-18 years, this man has played a major role,” Karthik said during an interaction on Cricbuzz.

"You can ask any TV broadcaster, and you will get the answer that when this man steps on the field, the ratings go up. This is a fact. If you are going to do something that is going to help the league, why not? You don't want to bend and break the rules, but if it's a fair one, where all teams have been informed, and they all feel it's fair, let's go ahead. Why not? He is a special cricketer,” he continued.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former India cricketer Dinesh Karthik has broken the silence on the most-talked-about IPL rule mentioned in the latest regulations issued by the BCCI – the return of the ‘uncapped player rule’.

Former India cricketer Dinesh Karthik has broken the silence on the most-talked-about IPL rule mentioned in the latest regulations issued by the BCCI – the return of the ‘uncapped player rule’. Karthik says this rule, which was there since the tournament’s inception and later discarded in 2021, is brought back by the board for just one man, MS Dhoni. What does this ‘uncapped player rule’ mean? Per the BCCI and IPL’s latest guidelines issued for the 2025-2027 window, any Indian player who last appeared for the national side at least five years ago to the upcoming auction date will be considered an uncapped player and can be retained under the ‘uncapped player rule’ by each of the ten franchises. ALSO READ: PCB media director shuts reporter for 'disrespecting' Captain Shan Masood - Watch video Although not many options are available with each team, the former five-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have a golden chance to retain their ex-captain and marquee player MS Dhoni under the ‘uncapped player category’ ahead of the mega auction later this year. Dhoni last played for India during the 2019 World Cup in England, and with him already completing more than five years since, he is eligible to fall under this bracket. What’s more than this? CSK doesn't have to splurge money on his retention since his IPL future remains uncertain and can retain him for INR 4 crore. What did Karthik say? Dinesh Karthik, who last played for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2024, said he understands why this rule has been brought back, and that, he understands the dynamics behind it. "Everybody talks about it. This rule is made for one man, and I am for it through and through. This man has been such a major part of what this IPL has been about. If everybody is in a happy place - be it BCCI, be it any of the teams, be it how the league has performed over the years and how it has kept players so happy over the last 15-18 years, this man has played a major role,” Karthik said during an interaction on Cricbuzz. "You can ask any TV broadcaster, and you will get the answer that when this man steps on the field, the ratings go up. This is a fact. If you are going to do something that is going to help the league, why not? You don't want to bend and break the rules, but if it's a fair one, where all teams have been informed, and they all feel it's fair, let's go ahead. Why not? He is a special cricketer,” he continued. (With inputs from agencies)

Dinesh Karthik breaks silence on ‘uncapped player rule’ returning to IPL – ‘This rule is made for one man…’

The path for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has been cleared to retain talisman wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni as an uncapped Indian player ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction. The development comes as IPL has decided to bring back an old rule which would treat Indian players, who have been retired for five years, as uncapped players.

Dhoni, who retired in 2020, has continued to play IPL since and CSK will be shelling out only INR 4 crore or $500,000, should they decide to retain the 43-year-old.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-to-ban-foreign-players-withdrawing-after-being-picked-up-at-auction-762880">IPL to ban foreign players withdrawing after being picked up at auction</a>

"A capped Indian player will become uncapped if he has in the five calendar years preceding the year in which the relevant season is held, not played in the starting XI in international cricket or does not have a central contract with BCCI. This will be applicable for Indian players only," read the document shared with the franchises by IPL as reported by the cricket website ESPNCricinfo.

Over the last couple of seasons though, Dhoni has been giving away responsibilities to other players as the news around his retirement makes rounds.

He gave the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad in 2024 while coming down the order majorly as a boundary hitter only. The rumours around his retirement have been ripe ever since 2023 season and a knee surgery after that.

The 43-year-old said at a recent event that&nbsp;CSK are waiting for retention rules to come out to decide on the future course of action.

Dhoni is one of the most successful skippers in the IPL, leading CSK to five titles - the joint most in the league history along with Mumbai Indians.

He has been with the CSK since the league's inception in 2008, playing 264 matches and scoring 5,243 runs at a strike rate of 137 and an average of nearly 40.

The path for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has been cleared to retain talisman wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni as an uncapped Indian player ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction.

The path for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has been cleared to retain talisman wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni as an uncapped Indian player ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction. The development comes as IPL has decided to bring back an old rule which would treat Indian players, who have been retired for five years, as uncapped players. Dhoni, who retired in 2020, has continued to play IPL since and CSK will be shelling out only INR 4 crore or $500,000, should they decide to retain the 43-year-old. Also Read: IPL to ban foreign players withdrawing after being picked up at auction "A capped Indian player will become uncapped if he has in the five calendar years preceding the year in which the relevant season is held, not played in the starting XI in international cricket or does not have a central contract with BCCI. This will be applicable for Indian players only," read the document shared with the franchises by IPL as reported by the cricket website ESPNCricinfo. Over the last couple of seasons though, Dhoni has been giving away responsibilities to other players as the news around his retirement makes rounds. He gave the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad in 2024 while coming down the order majorly as a boundary hitter only. The rumours around his retirement have been ripe ever since 2023 season and a knee surgery after that. The 43-year-old said at a recent event that CSK are waiting for retention rules to come out to decide on the future course of action. Dhoni is one of the most successful skippers in the IPL, leading CSK to five titles - the joint most in the league history along with Mumbai Indians. He has been with the CSK since the league's inception in 2008, playing 264 matches and scoring 5,243 runs at a strike rate of 137 and an average of nearly 40.

IPL: MS Dhoni to be retained as UNCAPPED player by CSK? Here's what we know

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