As the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) kicks off, all eyes remain on MS Dhoni, who continues to hold a superstar status in Indian cricket despite retiring from international play in 2020.
Dhoni remains a central figure in the world's most lucrative cricket league.
Alongside him are seasoned players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, and rising stars such as Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Rishabh Pant. These players played a key role in India's triumph in two ICC tournaments over the past nine months—the T20 World Cup in June and the Champions Trophy last month.
Yet, despite the presence of these top talents, Dhoni remains the center of attention, with his leadership and presence continuing to captivate cricket fans worldwide.
The veteran cricketer, who turns 44 in July, is currently playing his 18th consecutive IPL season, 16 of them for Chennai Super Kings (CSK). He is the oldest player in this year’s tournament, though not the oldest to compete in IPL history.
Australian spinner Brad Hogg was 45 years and 92 days old when he last played for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2016, while leg-spinner Pravin Tambe, IPL’s oldest debutant at 41 years and 212 days, played his final game in 2019 at 44 years and 219 days.
Whether Dhoni will surpass them remains uncertain. Three years ago, when he relinquished the CSK captaincy, retirement seemed imminent. His reduced on-field appearances last season further fueled speculation. However, CSK ensured his retention for IPL 2025 through the mega auction, classifying him as an uncapped player due to his five-year absence from international cricket.
Over 18 IPL seasons, Dhoni has amassed 5,243 runs, ranking sixth on the all-time scorers list, currently led by Kohli.
His career batting average of 39.12 surpasses both Rohit Sharma and Kohli, trailing only David Warner (40.52) and AB de Villiers (39.70) among players with over 5,000 IPL runs.
With a strike rate of 137.53, Dhoni ranks behind only de Villiers (151.68) and Warner (139.77) among high scorers.
In six-hitting, Dhoni (252) follows only Chris Gayle (357), Rohit Sharma (280), and Kohli (272).
However, Dhoni’s impact extends beyond his batting numbers. As a wicketkeeper, his 180 dismissals (141 catches, 39 stumpings) remain unmatched in IPL history. His sharp reflexes and quick hands earned him the nickname “pickpocket” from former India coach Ravi Shastri.
His iconic "helicopter shot"—a signature flick-drive over mid-wicket using his wrist power—became a symbol of his batting prowess.
Another hallmark of Dhoni’s game has been his ability to control innings, keeping matches alive until the final moments with his calm approach and explosive strokeplay. His exceptional running between the wickets made him India’s most reliable match-winner in his prime.
As captain, Dhoni holds IPL records for the most matches (210) and most wins (123), leading CSK to five IPL championships and two Champions League titles.
He also guided India to three ICC trophies: the T20 World Cup (2007), ODI World Cup (2011), and Champions Trophy (2013).
In Test cricket, his legacy is equally significant. Playing 90 matches, he led India to the No. 1 ICC ranking before his unexpected retirement mid-series in 2014-15.
Cricket legends like Sunil Gavaskar and Ravi Shastri have often hailed Dhoni as India’s greatest cricketer. While that remains debatable, he is undeniably in the same league as icons like Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, and Kapil Dev.
Though age has taken a physical toll on him, Dhoni remains mentally resilient and fiercely competitive. Last season, he stepped away from his usual finisher role, instead playing brief but impactful innings that influenced match outcomes.
With the IPL's impact player rule—allowing teams to introduce an extra batter or bowler based on game conditions—Dhoni might take on this strategic role while continuing to mentor the squad informally.
For CSK, retaining Dhoni is an obvious decision. His influence extends beyond the field, bringing massive commercial and branding benefits to the franchise and the league. As CSK puts it, an IPL without Dhoni is simply “unthinkable.”
While some argue that keeping Dhoni limits opportunities for young talent, Ravi Shastri dismisses the notion: “The IPL operates on free-market principles. Franchise owners make decisions based on what’s best for them—both on and off the field.”
Meanwhile, former India opener Robin Uthappa, who played under Dhoni for both India and CSK, warns competitors: "Write off Dhoni at your own risk. The old magic might still be alive."
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