The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) teased fans with their list of retained players with a cryptic social media post on Tuesday (October 29) less than 48 hours before the deadline. The retention list of all 10 IPL franchises will be confirmed by Thursday (October 31) with each team allowed to retain a maximum of six players (5 capped) ahead of the mega auction.

Being the joint most successful side in the league and arguably the most popular, eyes are always on CSK but more so this year with the future of MS Dhoni in doubt. Despite retiring from international cricket in 2020 and last playing for India in 2019, Dhoni has continued to play for CSK in the IPL and there has been no confirmation from either the franchise or the player on whether he will continue playing in 2025.

However, CSK's post on X (formerly known as Twitter) has indicated the franchise will retain five players. Several fans guessed Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Matheesha Pathirana, MS Dhoni, and Rachin Ravindra as the players CSK are hinting at retaining.Although some intepreted it differently too.

MS Dhoni To Be Retained As Uncapped Player?

Ahead of the 2025 season, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) re-introduced an old rule which allows teams to retain players that have not played for India for more than five years to qualify as 'uncapped players.' Dhoni falls into this bracker and can stay with CSK for just Rs. 4 crore. All capped players can only be retained for values of Rs. 18 crore (slot 1 and 4), Rs. 14 crore (slot 2 and 5), and Rs. 11 crore (Rs. 3).

At a recent event, Dhoni also indicated that he will play the 2025 IPL by stating his desire to enjoy the game.

“I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I’m able to play. Like how during our childhood we used to go out and play at 4 pm, just enjoying the game. But with professional sport, it becomes difficult to enjoy the game just as a game. So what I want to do is to balance emotions and commitments and enjoy the game for the next few years," said Dhoni.

Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Cricket, Sports and around the world.