Mahendra Singh Dhoni, fondly known as 'Mahi' or 'Captain Cool', stands as an epitome of leadership and cricketing prowess in the Indian Premier League (IPL). His journey in the IPL is not just about statistics; it's a saga of resilience, strategic acumen, and unwavering determination.
His legacy in the cash-rich tournament especially for the Chennai Super Kings has been nothing less than a fairytale. With his strategic brilliance, CSK's Thala led the franchise to as many five IPL titles. The only other team to have achieved this milestone is Mumbai Indians.
Let's delve into the illustrious IPL career of this cricketing maestro.
MS Dhoni's tryst with the IPL began in 2008 when he was acquired by the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for a staggering US$1.5 million, making him the most expensive signing in the inaugural IPL auction.
His impact was immediate as he led CSK to the finals in the first season, showcasing his prowess both with the bat and behind the stumps.
Despite the two-year suspension of CSK, Dhoni's influence didn't wane. He was picked by Rising Pune Supergiants in 2016 and showcased his leadership once again. Returning to CSK in 2018, he displayed his mettle by steering the team to its third IPL title, followed by another triumph in 2021.
Under his captaincy, CSK has become the most successful IPL franchise with five title wins and ten final appearances.
MS Dhoni's Retirement IPL
Now at the age of 43 and a major knee injury, Dhoni's retirement is inevitable and fans can expect it soon. After a disappointing IPL 2025 season, MS Dhoni cleared the cloud over his IPL retirement, saying:
“It depends. I have four to five months to decide, there’s no hurry. Need to keep the body fit. You have to be at your best. If cricketers start retiring for their performance, some of them will retire at 22.”
“Will go back to Ranchi, enjoy a few bike rides. I am not saying I am done, not saying I am coming back either. I have the luxury of timing. Will think about it and then decide.”
Ans. MS Dhoni has helped CSK become the most successful IPL franchise with five title wins and ten final appearances.
Q.2. Will Dhoni play IPL 2026?
Ans. So far, nothing is confirmed. Speaking about his retirement plans, MS Dhoni said that he has 4-5 months to decide, he will take time, spend time with his family in his Ranchi home, and then decide.
Q.3. Why was CSK banned for 2 years?
Ans. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) was banned from the IPL for two years (2016 and 2017) due to the involvement of their team principal, Gurunath Meiyappan, in a betting scandal during the 2013 IPL season.
Q.4. Who is the CSK captain in 2025?
Ans. After Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out of IPL 2025, MS Dhoni took over the CSK captaincy for the rest of the season.
![MS Dhoni IPL [iplt20]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1711018113464_Untitleddesign(1).jpg?type=mq)
MS Dhoni IPL [iplt20]
CSK's Thala MS Dhoni in the frame (X.com)
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