AFP
The 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season is underway, with MS Dhoni remaining a central figure in Indian cricket, even after his international retirement in 2020.
Dhoni continues to be a prominent personality in the IPL, alongside other cricket legends like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and new talents such as Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant, who have recently led India to two ICC titles.
Despite the emergence of these players, Dhoni’s leadership and charisma still attract immense fanfare.
Aged 44 in July, Dhoni is competing in his 18th consecutive IPL season, primarily with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), and is the oldest player this year, though not the oldest ever in IPL history.
Brad Hogg, an Australian spinner, holds the record for the oldest player in the IPL, having played his last match at 45 years and 92 days, while Pravin Tambe debuted at 41 and retired at almost 45.
Questions remain regarding whether Dhoni will outlast these records, especially after hints of his potential retirement following his last captaincy season with CSK.
CSK has retained him for the 2025 season under the rule allowing him to play as an uncapped player due to his time away from international play.
AFP
Throughout 18 IPL seasons, Dhoni has amassed 5,243 runs, placing him sixth in all-time run scorers behind Kohli. His batting average stands at 39.12, higher than both Kohli and Rohit Sharma, while trailing only David Warner and AB de Villiers among those with over 5,000 runs.
He also boasts a remarkable strike rate of 137.53, ranking him third among players with over 5,000 runs, while his sixes tally of 252 ranks fourth overall.
As a wicketkeeper, he has an impressive 180 dismissals, a record no one has matched, showcasing his quick reflexes and agility that earned him the nickname “pickpocket.”
Though renowned for his “helicopter shot,” Dhoni is also praised for his exceptional ability to stabilize innings, keeping his composure under pressure and running swiftly between wickets, making him a key match-winner during his heyday.
AFP
Dhoni holds records for the most matches as captain (210) and victories (123) in IPL history, leading CSK to five IPL titles and two Champions League victories. He also guided India to three ICC titles during his captaincy.
His influence in Test cricket cannot be understated, as he played 90 matches and led India to the top ICC ranking before his unexpected retirement.
Many former Indian captains regard him as one of the greatest cricketers, placing him alongside legends such as Gavaskar, Tendulkar, and Kapil Dev.
As the season progresses, age is beginning to show its impact on Dhoni, yet he continues to display mental toughness and competitiveness.
Though he has stepped back from his traditional finishing role, he adapts his strategy to still provide valuable contributions.
Getty Images
With the IPL’s new impact player rule, which allows teams to select an extra specialist based on match needs, Dhoni may adapt to this role while still acting as a mentor to the team.
For CSK, retaining Dhoni is a strategic decision, bringing commercial advantages beyond his fan base, as his presence is deemed essential for the team’s branding.
While this may restrict young players’ chances, commentators argue that the league operates on pragmatic grounds, and franchise owners have to prioritize their best interests.
Robin Uthappa, a former Indian opener, cautions opponents not to underestimate Dhoni, suggesting he has the potential for a few more spectacular plays.
Follow BBC News India on Instagram, YouTube, X, and Facebook.
