It is not a big secret that IPL 2024 might be the last time spectators see Mahendra Singh Dhoni walk out in Chennai Super Kings colours. Speculation around the legendary keeper-batter retiring from IPL ahead of next season were doing rounds but Dhoni declared himself fit and available to play in IPL 2024. If this is indeed Dhoni’s last IPL, who can fill these big shoes for CSK in 2025? Former cricketer and analyst Deep Dasgupta has another explosive keeper-batter in mind: Rishabh Pant.
At the age of 42, Dhoni recently announced his comeback as he was one of the 19 players retained by Chennai Super Kings for next year’s IPL. The veteran led CSK to their fifth IPL title in the final earlier this year. However, it is a strong possibility that MS Dhoni will hang up his boots after IPL 2024.
Pant, on the other hand, had to deal with a huge setback last year. In December 2022, Pant was involved in a car accident in which he sustained some injuries. The accident forced him to take a break from the cricket circuit for a several months.
As a result, Pant was ruled out of IPL 2023 and even missed the much-awaited 2023 World Cup. After a difficult time in the hospital, Pant is now on his way to regain his place on the field.
According to Deep Dasgupta, Rishabh Pant will be a topic to look out for before IPL 2025 auctions. Dasgupta has predicted that CSK will go all out for Pant in IPL 2025 auction.
“Don’t be surprised if CSK pursues Rishabh Pant in IPL 2025. MS Dhoni and Rishabh share a special bond. Rishabh holds MS in high regard, and the feeling is mutual. Their extensive time spent together has forged a deep connection. Rishabh’s approach to the game mirrors that of MS Dhoni—aggressive, positive, and relentlessly focused on winning. This synergy could make Pant an ideal candidate for the CSK squad in the upcoming mega auction,” Dasgupta said.
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While it remains to be seen if Dasgupta’s prediction hits bulls eye, CSK fans certainly wouldn’t mind replacing Dhoni with Pant if Dhoni indeed calls it a day after IPL 2024.
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