IPL 2024: Ambati Rayudu, Robin Uthappa weigh in on CSK icon MS Dhoni’s retirement plan

May 20, 2024

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IPL 2024: Ambati Rayudu, Robin Uthappa weigh in on CSK icon MS Dhoni’s retirement plan

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As speculation mounts over the potential retirement of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star MS Dhoni from the Indian Premier League (IPL), former India cricketers Ambati Rayudu and Robin Uthappa have voiced their opinions. With Dhoni approaching the age of 43, fans and analysts alike are curious whether the legendary player will continue in the league or bid farewell.

Possibly Dhoni’s last game in IPL

On Saturday, May 18, Dhoni played what many believe might be his final match in IPL. CSK’s 27-run defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) resulted in the team failing to secure a spot in the playoffs. Despite the outcome, Rayudu and Uthappa, both former CSK players, suggest that this might not be the end for Dhoni, hinting at a potential comeback in IPL 2025.

Ambati Rayudu’s perspective

Rayudu appeared convinced that Dhoni has not yet played his last IPL match. He urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to retain the impact player rule, which could facilitate Dhoni’s continued participation in the league.

“I don’t think this is his last game. I just don’t see him wanting to end on this note. He looked a little frustrated, even when he got out. That’s very unlike MS Dhoni, he just wanted to qualify and finish on a high. But you never know with MS Dhoni, he might come back next year. With the impact player role as well, it allows him to be able to come in those last few overs and truly make that impact. BCCI better not remove the impact player role because we still want to see MS Dhoni play. So, it’s up to BCCI now. Do we want to see MS Dhoni play or not,” Rayudu said on Star Sports.

Also READ: ‘Not Rohit, not Virat…’ – Jadeja’s like on social-media posts in support of Dhoni sparks controversy

Robin Uthappa’s bold prediction

Uthappa confidently predicted that Dhoni will return for IPL 2025, noting that the former captain does not take setbacks lightly.

“I don’t think we have seen the last of MS. He is not someone who takes these things lightly. He will come back roaring for sure,” said Uthappa on JioCinema.

Uthappa also mentioned that Dhoni had been managing a calf injury throughout the season, which limited his time at the crease, but hinted at a stronger return next year.

“Even with the narrative, I have seen him bat only in the last 4 or 5 overs, there is a reason for it. He had a calf injury which they initially thought perhaps was a niggle, but it was a little more grave than that. Because of that, he had to manage himself and often has he does, in international cricket and for CSK, he figured out a way to be useful and contribute to CSK,” added Uthappa.