Former India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni has made a candid revelation about his role on the cricket field, underscoring the significance of his wicketkeeping duties. At the age of 43, Dhoni remains an integral part of the CSK squad, primarily as their wicketkeeper, demonstrating the team’s continued faith in his capabilities.
Dhoni’s association with CSK stretches across the entirety of the Indian Premier League (IPL), with the exception of two seasons when the team was suspended. Under his stewardship, CSK achieved remarkable success, winning five IPL titles and reaching ten finals, showcasing his profound impact on the team’s performance.
In a recent video shared by Star Sports, Dhoni expressed, “If I’m not wicketkeeping, I think I’m useless on the field because that’s where I read the game in the best possible manner. It’s a challenge, and that’s what makes it interesting. Over the last few years, I don’t know whether it is 2 or 5 years, my franchise will be like you play till you want to play. Even if I’m on the chair, they will be like, don’t worry you play. I want to enjoy cricket, so one year at a time.”
Last season, Dhoni transitioned the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad, marking a new chapter for CSK. The team kicked off their IPL 2025 campaign with a triumphant victory against Mumbai Indians at the iconic Chepauk Stadium.
Despite relinquishing the captaincy, Dhoni continues to play a pivotal role in the team’s strategy, actively contributing to field placements and providing mentorship to Gaikwad during matches. Reflecting on the transition, Dhoni shared on the JioHotstar show “The MS Dhoni Experience,” “After IPL last year, I almost immediately told him, ‘90% you will lead next season, so start preparing yourself mentally’. Before the start of the tournament, I also told him, ‘If I give you advice, it doesn’t mean you have to follow it. I will try to stay away as much as possible’.”
Addressing speculations about his influence behind the scenes, Dhoni clarified, “During the season, a lot of people speculated that I was making the decisions in the background. But the fact is, he was making 99 per cent of the decisions. The most important calls – bowling changes, field placements – were all his. I was just helping him out. He did a brilliant job of handling the players.”
Throughout his illustrious career, Dhoni has featured in 265 matches, amassing 5,243 runs and notching up 24 half-centuries, cementing his legacy as one of cricket’s finest.
CSK is set to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in their next IPL 2025 encounter at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Friday, promising another thrilling contest in the league.