IPL 2025: Tom Moody calls uncapped player rule game-changer for 'iconic' MS Dhoni and CSK

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have been handed a significant advantage with the return of the uncapped player rule, as they look to retain one of the most iconic players in cricket history, MS Dhoni, ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction.

It would be a game-changer and a masterstroke for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), as the five-time IPL champions can now hold onto their legendary wicketkeeper-batter for a mere Rs 12 crores across three seasons for his priceless contribution to the team both on and off the field.

CSK set for major boost as uncapped player rule could secure MS Dhoni for just INR 4 crores ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction

MS Dhoni, the face of CSK since the inaugural edition of the IPL in 2008, has been the backbone of the franchise and played a key role in their success, captaining them to five titles and making them the joint-most successful franchise in the league alongside Mumbai Indians (MI).

The uncapped player rule means that Dhoni qualifies as an uncapped player, as he has already retired from the game and doesn’t have any contract with the BCCI.

This allows CSK to retain their former captain at a very low cost as compared to his stature, providing them with not only a financial advantage but also freeing up vital retention spots for other key players.

Uncapped player rule makes things easy for Chennai

For CSK, this rule change couldn't have come at a better time. With the retention window open, the Chennai team can now focus on securing their top stars without breaking the bank ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction.

Ravindra Jadeja, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and rising sensation Matheesha Pathirana are expected to fill the top three spots, while Dhoni, the architect of CSK’s legacy, remains firmly fixed in the squad at a bargain price.

Well, this development brings fresh hope for CSK fans, as Dhoni had hinted that he would take a call on his IPL future once the new retention rules were announced. Now, with these rules in place, CSK has the perfect opportunity to extend Dhoni’s career, keeping him in yellow for another three seasons.

As the rule allows Chennai to retain their most valuable asset for just Rs 4 crore while creating space for young talent, Tom Moody said that it is a win-win situation for CSK. The former Australian cricketer said that Dhoni is the identity of CSK and his presence would only benefit the IPL.

MS Dhoni is the identity of CSK: Tom Moody

Tom Moody was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo: “I think it's a great rule. I think it allows, if you are good enough and you have got longevity, a player to continue to play on the big stage and perform and have some sort of role; without them, I suppose, you are making it difficult, from a price perspective, to retain those players because they might be the identity, or in Dhoni's case, certainly he is the identity of CSK.

So, I don't think that's an issue at all. I think the longer the likes of iconic players like Dhoni can play in the IPL and can physically deliver like he has, it's good for the tournament.”

The former Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) coach also suggested that the five-year rule to become an uncapped player in the IPL for a retired cricketer can be cut down to three years.

Moody signed off by saying, “I personally think five years is a long time; I would like to see it as a three-year window. Once a player has played his last international game, I think if you are out of international cricket or you haven't been considered to play for India over that three-year window, you should be given the right of passage to be able to come in at that four-crow level.”