This rule was in effect from the inaugural IPL season until 2021 but was ultimately scrapped as it was never utilized by any franchise. However, during a recent meeting between the BCCI and franchise owners in July 2024, CSK pushed for the rule’s reinstatement, possibly as a strategic move to retain Dhoni without compromising their core group of capped players ahead of the IPL mega auction.
Dhoni’s Eligibility as an Uncapped Player
If the old rule is reinstated, Dhoni would be eligible to play as an uncapped player for CSK in IPL 2025. The 43-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020. By the time IPL 2025 begins in March, Dhoni will have been retired for over four and a half years.
However, the rule clearly states that for a player to be classified as uncapped, they must have been retired from international cricket for more than five years. This presents a challenge for CSK, as Dhoni will not meet the five-year requirement by the time retention decisions are made for IPL 2025.
Potential Cost Savings for CSK
Retaining Dhoni as an uncapped player could provide significant cost savings for CSK. Under the previous rule, franchises could retain uncapped players for up to ₹4 crore. In comparison, CSK retained Dhoni for ₹12 crore during the 2022 mega auction.
If the rule is reinstated and Dhoni is eligible, CSK could potentially retain him for a much lower price, allowing them to allocate more funds towards retaining other key players.
Dhoni’s Uncertain Future
Dhoni himself has acknowledged that his future in the IPL depends largely on the retention rules set by the BCCI for the upcoming auction. Speaking at an event in Hyderabad, Dhoni mentioned that he would make a decision in the best interest of the team once the rules and regulations are finalized.
However, a recent twist emerged when CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan denied that the franchise had requested the BCCI to reintroduce the rule, contradicting earlier reports. This has added further uncertainty to Dhoni’s IPL future.
Conclusion
The potential reinstatement of the old retention rule allowing retired international cricketers to be classified as uncapped players has generated significant interest around MS Dhoni’s future in IPL 2025. While CSK is pushing for the rule’s return, Dhoni’s eligibility remains uncertain due to the five-year retirement requirement. The BCCI’s final decision on player retention rules will be crucial in determining whether Dhoni continues to lead CSK or hangs up his boots after a glorious IPL career.
