Image: MS Dhoni faces retirement calls after CSK miss playoffs / © SpotboyE
With the conclusion of IPL 2025, speculations around MS Dhoni’s retirement have intensified after Chennai Super Kings (CSK) failed to make the playoffs for just the second time in over a decade. Former India pacer Joginder Sharma, known for bowling the final over in the 2007 T20 World Cup, has urged Dhoni to consider stepping away from the league, citing the veteran’s age and physical demands of the game. At 43, Dhoni took over CSK’s captaincy once again after Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury but couldn’t guide the team past the group stage in the tournament’s 18th edition.
Fueling retirement rumors further was the presence of Dhoni’s family during the match at Chepauk and his lower batting order position. CSK coach Stephen Fleming acknowledged that Dhoni struggles to sustain 10 overs of high-intensity batting. Despite these limitations, Dhoni crossed key milestones this season — playing his 400th T20, becoming the oldest Player of the Match, and adding to his record of most wins as captain.
In a post-match presentation, Dhoni stated he would assess his fitness over the next 6–8 months before making any decisions. Notably, he underwent knee surgery recently, hinting at ongoing physical challenges that could influence his final call on retirement.