MS Dhoni captained Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025 after Ruturaj Gaikwad was sidelined due to an elbow injury. CSK’s campaign in the Indian Premier League concluded on Sunday, May 25, with a match against Gujarat Titans (GT) at the Narendra Modi International Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. CSK dominated the game, securing a convincing 83-run victory over GT.
Following the win, MS Dhoni spoke about his plans for the next IPL season in 2026. He had taken over the captaincy midway through IPL 2025 after Gaikwad’s injury forced him out. Despite his efforts, Dhoni was unable to steer CSK into the playoffs.
The Men in Yellow endured a tough season, finishing last in the league stage for the first time in IPL history. They won only four out of 14 matches, losing ten. Nonetheless, they ended their season on a high note with a commanding win against GT.
MS Dhoni on IPL Comeback: “I Have 4-5 Months to Decide”
During the post-match presentation following the GT vs CSK clash, MS Dhoni opened up about his future in the IPL. He revealed that he will take a few months before deciding whether to return to the league next year. Interestingly, MS Dhoni neither confirmed his retirement nor assured a comeback for the next season.
“It’s good. I wouldn’t say it was a houseful today. We didn’t have a great season; it was one of those perfect performances. Our catching hasn’t been consistent, but it was good today. It depends. I have 4-5 months to decide, so there’s no rush. I need to keep my body fit and be at my best,” MS Dhoni said.
He added, “If cricketers start retiring based on their performance, many would have retired by 22. I might go back to Ranchi and enjoy a few bike rides. I’m not saying I’m done, nor am I saying I’m coming back. I have the luxury of time. I’ll think about it and then make a decision.”
Meanwhile, MS Dhoni struggled with the bat in IPL 2025, scoring 196 runs across 13 innings at a strike rate of 135.17. His highest score was an unbeaten 30, but he faced difficulties finishing games on multiple occasions. Ahead of the season, CSK retained him as an uncapped player for INR 4 crores.