IPL 2025: MS Dhoni issues an official statement on playing for CSK ever again
Published - 26 Oct 2024, 12:07 PM | Updated - 26 Oct 2024, 11:39 PM
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Legendary India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni has hinted at his intention to continue playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL2025). MS Dhoni said that he wants to enjoy the last few years of his career, just ahead of the deadline for submitting the retention list for IPL 2025.
There has been ongoing speculation regarding Dhoni's participation in the IPL 2025. The veteran batter can be retained by CSK as an uncapped player for a fee of just Rs 4 crore as he last played for India five years ago. The IPL governing council revived the rule that had previously been removed in 2021.
Just Want To Enjoy Whatever Last Few Yeas - MS Dhoni
Speaking at a promotional event for Rigi, MS Dhoni expressed his desire to continue playing cricket for a few more years. Dhoni admitted that it can be difficult to enjoy the game due to the pressures involved.
"I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I am able to play," said Dhoni in a promotional event for software brand Rigi, for whom he's a brand ambassador, 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 added.
The legendary wicketkeeper batter handed over the captaincy of the Chennai Super Kings to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the IPL 2024 season. He finished his captaincy tenure with five titles for the Super Kings. Last season, CSK finished fifth in the points table, just missing the playoffs due to net run rate (NRR).
I Have To Keep Myself Fit For Nine Months - MS Dhoni
Dhoni emphasized that he needs to maintain his fitness for nine months to play in the two-and-a-half-month tournament. The cricketer added that he needs to carefully plan, including some relaxation.
"I have to keep myself fit for nine months so that I can play two and a half months of IPL. You need to plan it out, but at the same time chill a bit," Dhoni said.
I've Kept It Very Simple - MS Dhoni
The Ranchi-born cricketer also shared insights about his training routine. MS Dhoni said that he trains for about 15 to 25 days and then takes a break for another 15 to 20 days, which helps him stay in form. He added this allows him to enjoy his favorite foods, but he maintains a decent diet while training.
"I've kept it very simple. I'll train for 15, 20, 25 days and then take off for 15-20 days, so it really helps me be in the groove. I can enjoy the food that I want to eat. Once I start training, I follow a good diet, I won't say an excellent diet. That's what keeps me busy," the veteran added.
