MS Dhoni to play IPL until he gets 50 years old? Ruturaj Gaikwad sends shockwaves

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has opened up about the speculations surrounding MS Dhoni’s retirement from IPL. Gaikwad drew a comparison with Sachin Tendulkar and stated that the legendary wicketkeeper-batter has “many years to go” in the tournament.

The five-time champions retained Dhoni for ₹4 crore as an uncapped player during the off-season. The former India captain has not played competitive cricket since IPL 2024. Dhoni struggled with a knee issue throughout the IPL 2023 season and later underwent surgery after leading the team to the title.

Ruturaj Gaikwad Opens Up on MS Dhoni's IPL Future

Speaking to the press ahead of their season opener, Ruturaj Gaikwad dismissed rumors about MS Dhoni’s retirement. Gaikwad called his longevity "remarkable" and "commendable." He stated that Dhoni will play a crucial role for CSK in the tournament.

"So, definitely that always will be there. If you see now, even Sachin Tendulkar is batting as great as he is right now, even at the age of 50 [51]. So, I think there are still many years to go," Gaikwad told reporters.

"So, definitely, it inspires a lot of us, including myself, including everyone from the group. So, whatever he is doing at the age of 43, I think it is remarkable. It is really commendable. And definitely, he will be looking to contribute in the best way he can. But I mean, we have certain strengths that we have been following for the last two years. So, I think nothing much really changes, and hopefully, he will continue to deliver those crucial knocks for us," he added.

MS Dhoni Spotted Wearing "One Last Time" T-Shirt in Chennai

MS Dhoni arrived in Chennai for the pre-season camp wearing a T-shirt with "One Last Time" written in Morse code, sparking speculation about his future. Notably, Dhoni stepped down as CSK captain before IPL 2024 but contributed to the team with his finishing skills and wicketkeeping.

In IPL 2024, Dhoni played lower down the order, batting at No. 8 or below. The veteran batter scored 161 runs across 11 innings at a staggering strike rate of 220.55. He faced 73 balls, smashed 13 sixes, and remained unbeaten in his first seven knocks of the season. But CSK failed to reach the playoffs.

The Jharkhand-born cricketer has cemented his legacy in the IPL, leading Chennai Super Kings to five titles, including consecutive triumphs in 2010 and 2011. He also holds the record for the most appearances in IPL history, having played 264 matches.

Ruturaj Gaikwad Showers Praise on MS Dhoni's Fitness for IPL 2025

Ruturaj Gaikwad stated that MS Dhoni is focused on his role in the tournament. He added that the CSK legend is working on refining his power-hitting. Gaikwad also praised Dhoni’s fitness, noting that he appeared in great shape.

"I think his training is very much limited to whatever he tries to achieve," the CSK skipper said.

"Or whatever his role would be in the IPL. So, it is pretty much very simple, focused on trying to hit as much as sixes as possible and trying to get the right swing, trying to be in the best shape. That is what I think initially he was trying to do. And then I never thought he was out of shape even on the first day. So, I think obviously he is special - he's done it for so many years."

CSK will take on Mumbai Indians in their season opener at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday, March 23.

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