MS Dhoni Keeps Fans Guessing on Retirement, Says ‘Not Saying I’m Coming Back’

Chennai Super Kings signed off their IPL 2025 campaign with a comprehensive 83-run win over Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. Devon Conway and Dewald Brevis starred with the bat as CSK posted a formidable 230/5, before their bowlers bundled out the playoff-bound Titans for 147 in 18.3 overs.

New Zealand opener Conway laid the platform with a steady 52, while South Africa’s Dewald Brevis dazzled with a quickfire 57 off just 23 deliveries. The duo powered CSK to a commanding total after the team opted to bat first.

MS Dhoni holds off on retirement decision

All eyes turned to MS Dhoni after the game, as speculation swirled around his IPL future. The 43-year-old, who resumed captaincy duties midway through the season following Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury, chose to remain non-committal.

“I have 4-5 months to decide, there’s no hurry. Need to keep the body fit. You have to be at your best. If cricketers start retiring for their performance, some of them will retire at 22,” Dhoni said at the post-match presentation.

“Will go back to Ranchi, enjoy a few bike rides. I am not saying I am done, not saying I am coming back. I have the luxury of timing. Will think about it and then decide,” he added.

Reflecting on the season

Despite the dominant win, CSK ended their season at the bottom of the points table with just four victories in 14 matches. Their inconsistent run overshadowed some individual flashes of brilliance throughout the tournament.

Reflecting on their campaign, Dhoni noted the team’s struggles early on. “When we started the season, the four games were in Chennai. We decided to bat second, but I felt the wicket was good for batting in the first innings. I was worried about the batting department. We can put runs on the board, but a few holes to fill,” he remarked.

He also reassured fans about Gaikwad’s return next year. “Ruturaj doesn’t need to worry about too many things next season. He will fit into one of those roles. You feel old. He is exactly 25 years younger than me, that makes me feel I am old.”

Playoff picture heats up

With Gujarat Titans already having secured a playoff spot with 18 points, their loss does not affect qualification but raises questions about momentum heading into the knockout stages. Punjab Kings (17 points), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (17), and Mumbai Indians (16) still have one game each to vie for a spot in the top two, which offers two chances to reach the final on June 3.