Cricket

CSK’s Proposal to Retain MS Dhoni as an Uncapped Player Sparks IPL Debate

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have proposed a rule change aimed at retaining their iconic player, MS Dhoni, as an uncapped player for the 2025 season. This suggestion, tabled at a recent meeting in Mumbai between the IPL committee and the ten franchises, has raised questions about player valuation and the league’s fairness.

Since its inception in 2008, the IPL has evolved to maintain a competitive balance through a series of rule changes. One such rule, scrapped in 2021 at the request of several teams, allowed players retired from international cricket for five or more years to be classified as uncapped. CSK has now proposed the reinstatement of this rule, hoping to retain Dhoni, who retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020, under more favourable financial terms.

The proposed change could potentially allow CSK to retain Dhoni for the 2025 season at a significantly reduced price compared to his current retention cost of INR 12 crore. This cost reduction could free up funds for CSK to invest in other players.

The proposal, however, has not been met with universal approval. Several franchises expressed concerns about the implications of such a change. Kavya Maran, owner of Sunrisers Hyderabad, voiced a strong objection, arguing, “Classifying retired internationals as uncapped players disrespects their value and sets a wrong precedent.” 

Maran and other franchise representatives believe that allowing the market to dictate a player’s worth through the auction process is a more equitable approach.

The debate highlights the tension between maintaining competitive balance and acknowledging the historical significance and value of veteran players like Dhoni. As one of the most celebrated players in IPL history, Dhoni’s retention has become a focal point in discussions about how to best structure team rosters and financial allocations.

In addition to CSK’s proposal, the meeting also considered a related issue concerning retired Indian players. Franchises reached a consensus on allowing Indian players who haven’t represented the national team in five years to lower their base price at auctions. This adjustment aims to create more opportunities for domestic players to re-enter the league.

This agreement shows the franchises’ collective interest in balancing opportunities for emerging talent with the inclusion of seasoned players. However, the proposal to classify retired internationals as uncapped remains contentious, with several teams worried about the potential impact on the integrity and competitiveness of the league.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

India’s Junior Men Clinch Bronze with Gritty 2-1 Win Over Australia in Four Nations Tournament

The Indian junior men’s hockey team wrapped up their campaign at the Four Nations Tournament… Read More

June 26, 2025

Suryakumar Yadav Undergoes Successful Sports Hernia Surgery, Eyes Return for Bangladesh Tour

India's T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav has successfully undergone surgery for a sports hernia in his… Read More

June 26, 2025

Golden Glove Winner Jaspreet Singh Joins Bengaluru FC in Key Summer Move

Bengaluru FC have taken a decisive step toward rebuilding their squad by signing goalkeeper Jaspreet… Read More

June 26, 2025

Ravi Shastri says opening Test loss against England is a tough pill to swallow for India

Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri believes the opening Test loss against England is a… Read More

June 26, 2025

Varun Aaron says England batters’ approach made Jasprit Bumrah desperate for wickets in 2nd innings of 1st Test

Former Indian fast bowler Varun Aaron believes England batters were able to find a way… Read More

June 26, 2025

Varun Aaron says Karun Nair will be disappointed with his opening Test performance against England

Former Indian fast bowler Varun Aaron believes Karun Nair will be disappointed after he failed… Read More

June 26, 2025