"What’s good for himself": Sunil Gavaskar gives bold verdict on MS Dhoni extending his IPL career

Legendary wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni’s long and iconic Indian Premier League (IPL) journey has sparked fresh debate after Chennai Super Kings failed to make it to the playoffs for the second year in a row. Stepping in as captain midway through IPL 2025 after Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury, MS Dhoni couldn't rescue the Chennai Super Kings’ campaign.

Now, questions are being raised about whether MS Dhoni should have hung up his boots earlier. While some believe his presence still adds value, others feel this season may have stretched his legacy a bit too far. Now, legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar reacted to the buzz.

Sunil Gavaskar breaks silence on MS Dhoni’s future in IPL

Gavaskar suggested that the legendary captain MS Dhoni may have played one season too many. With CSK missing out on the IPL playoffs for the second consecutive year, he believes that MS Dhoni has always put CSK above personal glory, and any decision he makes or he will make will be best for the team.

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Sunil Gavaskar was quoted as saying by Sports Today, “Any player makes decisions not so much for himself, but for what is likely to be good for the team. Whatever decision MSD made about playing this season would have been based solely on what’s best for CSK. Any future decision he takes will also depend entirely on what’s good for CSK—not necessarily what’s good for himself.”

CSK need to get their auction strategy right: Sunil Gavaskar

The former Indian captain urged Chennai Super Kings to rethink their strategy ahead of the next IPL season. He believes that CSK needs to focus more on strengthening their bowling attack at the IPL auction next year. Gavaskar suggested CSK avoid picking batters based on performances in smaller domestic leagues, as they often struggle against the world-class bowlers in the IPL.

Gavaskar further explained, “First and foremost, they need to get their auction strategy right. I'm not too sure their scouting team is as effective as those of other franchises. That said, scouts shouldn’t rely solely on leagues like the Jharkhand League, UP League, or others like them. Success in those leagues, often played on smaller grounds against relatively ordinary bowling attacks, doesn’t necessarily translate to higher levels.”

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Sunil Gavaskar warns CSK against local league hype

Furthermore, the legendary batter advised CSK to prioritize quality bowlers who can consistently deliver in pressure situations and help CSK regain their edge in the next edition.

Gavaskar signed off by saying, “Many players who dominate these leagues with big hitting often fail when they face international-quality bowling. So, if you’re scouting talent, focus more on the bowlers. Strengthening the bowling attack is critical—if your bowlers can restrict the opposition and consistently take wickets, you have a real edge.”

Notably, Chennai Super Kings will take the field with pride on the line as they gear up to face Rajat Patidar’s Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Saturday, May 3, at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium. With their playoff hopes ended, CSK will aim to end their IPL 2025 campaign on a high note.