In a surprising turn of events, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is exploring the possibility of retaining MS Dhoni as an uncapped player for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Yes, you heard that right. The franchise is pushing for the reintroduction of an old rule that would allow players retired from international cricket for five or more years to be classified as ‘uncapped players’.
CSK to turn MS Dhoni into ‘uncapped’ player?
Uncapped players basically are individuals, who have not represented their respective country at an international level. However, MS Dhoni is the player with the second-most international appearances with 535 games. Then how can CSK retain him as an uncapped talent?
According to ESPNcricinfo, the rule, which existed from 2008 to 2021, would enable CSK to retain Dhoni at a significantly lower cost than if he were classified as a capped player. With the next mega auction approaching, CSK is keen to utilize this loophole to keep their legendary former captain. Under the old rule, any cricketer who hadn’t played international cricket for at least five years was considered as uncapped. As we all know, in the case of MS Dhoni, he stopped playing for India on August 15, 2020 (the heartbreaking semi-final exit at 2019 ODI World Cup).
According to the last retention policy, an uncapped player who is retained by the franchise would only cost them Rs 4 crore.
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SRH owner Kavya Maran denies
However, not all franchises are in favor of reintroducing this rule. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) owner Kavya Maran expressed concerns that it would “disrespect” the player’s value and set a “wrong precedent.” Other teams also oppose the idea, arguing that former international players should not be considered uncapped regardless of their retirement status.
The debate over Dhoni’s future in the IPL has been ongoing, with the veteran himself staying mum on his retirement plans.
