CSK Official: MS Dhoni Yet To Decide on Retirement, Asks For Time

Chennai Super Kings ( CSK ) exited the Indian Premier League ( IPL ) 2024 playoffs after losing their final league match to Royal Challengers Bengaluru ( RCB ) on Saturday. This defeat meant that CSK's Net Run Rate was marginally lower than RCB's, allowing the Faf du Plessis-led team to advance despite both teams finishing with 14 points each.

The loss was a double blow for CSK fans who not only saw their team eliminated but also faced the possibility of it being MS Dhoni 's last match. However, a CSK official has now disclosed that Dhoni has not yet communicated any decision regarding his retirement to the franchise.

In an interview with the Times of India, a senior CSK official mentioned that a change of ball in the final over, after Dhoni struck a 110-meter six, significantly impacted their match against RCB. Consequently, Dhoni could not keep his promise of winning the IPL trophy at Chepauk.

"The ball was lost and had to be replaced. Dayal got a drier ball and suddenly hitting became difficult," a senior CSK official said.

The report also noted that Dhoni returned to Ranchi on Sunday, being the first from the CSK camp to leave, visibly devastated by the defeat against RCB.

Regarding Dhoni's future, a source informed the paper that Dhoni has not disclosed his plans to anyone in the franchise. He has asked the management to wait for a couple of months before making a final decision.

"Dhoni has not told anybody in CSK that he is quitting. He has told the management that he will wait for a couple of months before taking a final call," the report quoted a source as saying. "He did not feel any discomfort in his running between the wickets and that is a plus."

The 'Impact Player' rule, which has faced criticism from some current cricketers, may influence Dhoni's retirement decision. If the rule remains, Dhoni might continue, as it allows him to perform a specific role within the team. If the rule is removed, it could complicate the veteran wicket-keeper batter's return.

"We will wait for Dhoni's communication. He always has the best interests of the team in mind, let's see what happens," the CSK official concluded.