MS Dhoni. (Picture Credit: BCCI)
Why would this move benefit CSK? Well, the answer is simple: it makes retaining their talisman MS Dhoni a much easier and much cheaper task.
As the much-waited IPL mega auction nears us, much talk has arisen regarding the retention policy, and latest reports indicate that an interesting development may be on the books regarding the same.
Ahead of the 2025 season of the Indian Premier League, franchise owners have been awaiting the release of the new retention policy from the BCCI. But, as per a report from Cricbuzz, it is believed that the announcement may be delayed till the end of the month possibly.
The upcoming IPL mega-auction could serve as a platform for all franchises to completely overhaul their side in a bid to be title contenders in the long-term perspective, or for a select few, it may open up the opportunity to hold on to their biggest stars.
As news that may rejoice fans and supporters of the Chennai Super Kings, it has also been reported by Cricbuzz that the BCCI is considering a much-debated move of classifying retired international players as uncapped.
Why would this move benefit CSK? Well, the answer is simple: it makes retaining their talisman MS Dhoni a much easier and much cheaper task.
How’s that the case? Well, as per previos retention rules, an uncapped player could be retained for just Rs 4 crores. Compare this to the price CSK paid in 2022, a whopping Rs 12 crores, to retain Dhoni and there you have your answer.
It would very predictably and understandably be of paramount importance for CSK (and preferable even the IPL) that Dhoni’s retention is ensured, for financial and professional success.
In fact, it has been reported that CSK officials also maintain that should Dhoni decide to play next season, he would be one of their retentions, even if the BCCI permits only two retentions. Such is the pull of Captain Cool.
But, with rules around IPL 2025 player regulations and retention scheme in the process of being firmed up, Dhoni himself said he would wait and see how the rules are before taking a decision on whether he wishes to continue playing.
“There is a lot of time for it. We have to see what decision they take on player retention etc. Right now, the ball is not in our court. So, once the rules and regulations get formalised, I will take a call, but needs to be in the best interest of the team,” said Dhoni at a promotional event in Hyderabad earlier in August this year.
