There is a lot of speculation surrounding MS Dhoni's participation in the IPL. Will CSK retain him, what would be his role, is he fit enough to play, etc? Dhoni fans only want the former captain back on the field, but the veteran playing in IPL 2025 is not yet confirmed. CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan provided a massive update on MS Dhoni's availability for the IPL 2025 and said the veteran is yet to confirm participation for the showpiece event.

Kasi Viswanathan said Dhoni told him he would reveal his decision before October 31, which is the deadline for all teams to confirm their retention list. The CSK CEO though is optimistic that Dhoni would be available to play for the franchise in IPL 2025. Dhoni stepped down as captain ahead of IPL 2024 and handed over the leadership reins to Ruturaj Gaikwad. It was speculated that Dhoni would bid adieu to the game after the season, but he left the fans guessing, hinting at a possible return for IPL 2025.

"We also want Dhoni to play in the CSK team. But Dhoni has not confirmed it to us yet. Dhoni said, 'I will tell you before October 31.' We hope that he will play," India Today quoted a report from Sports Vikatan where Kasi Viswanathan said.

Many believe that BCCI's decision to bring the old rule that allows franchises to retain players who have not played international cricket for five or more years under the uncapped category was made to make Dhoni available for IPL 2025. The rule allows CSK to retain Dhoni for a price of INR 4 crores. If not, it would have been tough for the franchise to retain Dhoni at a higher cost. Dhoni himself time and again has said that his stay in IPL depends on the retention and auction rules as he does not want to disrupt the balance of the side moving forward.

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