As expected, after the conclusion of each passing Indian Premier League (IPL) season, there are always talks about the impending retirement of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star MS Dhoni. Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has spoken about the possible retirement of the veteran batter. Apart from speaking about Dhoni, the former Australia skipper also touched upon IPL retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
For the unversed, Kohli's wait for the IPL trophy ended in the 18th season, as RCB defeated PBKS by six runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The legendary batter is currently 37 years of age, while Rohit and Dhoni are 38 and 42 years, respectively. However, like many others who voted for the CSK stalwart to retire after this IPL season, Clarke said he should return in the next IPL 2026 season as he is the face of CSK.
“I think MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma will play in next year's IPL. MS Dhoni is massive. Every time Chennai plays, even in away games, there are more Chennai fans than any other fan. Sponsors, are there because of MS Dhoni. The fans, they are there because of MS Dhoni,” Clarke said on the Beyond23 Cricket Podcast.
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"He is the king of that franchise. They want him to keep playing and I don't think people realise the impact. When he decides to retire, it will be a huge loss to the franchise," he added.
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Will MS Dhoni retire from IPL after CSK finished last in the 2025 season?
It is to be noted that CSK finished last on the IPL 2025 Points Table, as they could manage just three wins. Their age-old template of backing experience over youth backfired miserably. Dhoni also had an awful season with the bat in hand, as he walked into crease the majority of the times at the number 8 position. While CSK gave a chance to youth players like Dewald Brevis, Ayush Mhatre, and Urvil Patel, the big question remains, Will Dhoni retire after a bottom-placed finish?
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As expected, Dhoni did not disclose his retirement plans. The 42-year-old said that with still eight months to go for the next season of IPL, he will take a call, assessing his fitness and form.
