Diu (Daman and Diu) [India], May 20 (ANI): Joginder Sharma, the hero of India’s 2007 T20 World Cup triumph, has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding MS Dhoni’s future in the Indian Premier League, stating that it may be time for the Chennai Super Kings legend to “rest.”
Following a disappointing IPL 2025 season in which Chennai Super Kings (CSK)—five-time champions and perennial playoff contenders—failed to qualify for the playoffs, discussions about Dhoni’s retirement have intensified. With CSK faltering under the absence of skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, Dhoni was once again thrust into a leadership role, prompting fans and analysts to speculate on whether this might be his final IPL appearance.
“Considering Mahi’s fitness level, he should play up to prove his fitness, but I believe it is time for him to rest,” Joginder told ANI. The remark carries weight, as Joginder was famously entrusted with bowling the final over in India’s 2007 T20 World Cup win under Dhoni’s captaincy.
The speculation surrounding Dhoni’s future peaked last month when his family was seen at Chepauk for CSK’s clash against Delhi Capitals. His demotion down the batting order further fueled retirement rumors, especially after head coach Stephen Fleming acknowledged that Dhoni could no longer sustain extended batting stints. “He can’t bat for 10 overs running full stick,” Fleming admitted.
Although Dhoni has yet to make a final call, he did speak about the matter earlier this month after CSK defeated the Kolkata Knight Riders. “After this IPL gets over, I have to work hard for another 6-8 months to see if my body can take this pressure. Nothing to decide now, but the love and affection I have seen is excellent,” he stated during the post-match presentation.
Despite his physical limitations, the 43-year-old wicketkeeper-batter continues to break records. In IPL 2025, Dhoni played his 400th T20 match, became the oldest player to win a Player of the Match award, and further extended his record for the most wins as captain.
During CSK’s title-winning run in IPL 2023, Dhoni didn’t miss a single match and led the team with his trademark poise and tactical brilliance. However, earlier this month, he underwent knee surgery—an indication of the toll the sport has taken on his body.
As the dust settles on CSK’s underwhelming season, the cricketing world remains on edge, waiting for one of the sport’s most iconic figures to announce what comes next. Whether Dhoni returns for one more season or hangs up his boots, his legacy as one of the IPL’s greatest will remain unquestioned. (ANI)
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