MS Dhoni, whose name evokes images of serene leadership and winning on-field performances, is again in the middle of the retirement controversy maelstrom. This time, it is a going-viral video from the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) vs Rajasthan Royals IPL 2025 match in Guwahati that has triggered the maelstrom. But is there anything to it, or is this another April Fool’s Day joke gone viral?

Let’s dissect.

Why Retirement Gossip is Surfacing Again?

Retirement has been a topic of wide debate among supporters and analysts alike when it comes to Dhoni for years now. Ever since he retired from global cricket in 2019, everybody has been making guesses about when he was going to retire from the IPL as well. The recent controversy flared up after Dhoni opened the bowling at number nine in a recent match against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), surprising the fans.

Feeding all the rumor, CSK’s 43-year-old legend is playing for the very first time as an uncapped player in IPL history. True, that does not automatically imply that he is being released, but it certainly fueled speculation.

Then came the Guwahati video. Although it showed Dhoni being awarded a memento before the match, there was no conclusive evidence that it was a farewell function. But that did not stop fans from drawing conclusions.

The Big Question: Is Dhoni Actually Retiring?

Till date, there’s no word officially from Dhoni or CSK regarding his retirement. And if history has taught us one thing, Dhoni isn’t the kind of person to make big announcements. Recall how he walked away from international cricket? A quiet Instagram post with “Main Pal Do Pal Ka Shayar Hoon” as background music.

Even in Feb 2025, Dhoni dropped a hint about his IPL career going on and on, stating:

“I would like to relish the game as I did in my early years.”

For a person who has never minced words but actions, this was a good counsel that he’s not yet finished with.

Why CSK Would Want to Retain Dhoni if He’s Coming Out of Retirement?

All the rumors notwithstanding, CSK continues to admire Dhoni—not just as a cricketer but as a mentor and captain as well. While his salary did come down from ₹12 crore to ₹4 crore, his command remains unbeatable. He’s still guiding young cricketers and making key decisions from behind the stumps.

Sunil Gavaskar recently brushed aside the issue of age and declared:

“Age is just a figure for Dhoni. He’s still clearing boundaries with such ease at 45.”

Clearly, CSK knows that Dhoni’s presence alone is a game-changer, even if he isn’t in peak form.

Fan Reactions: Mixed Emotions Everywhere

As always, Dhoni’s fans have strong opinions about his future. Here’s what some of them are saying:

“Dhoni coming at No. 9 is the lowest point in his career. He should retire gracefully rather than face this embarrassment.”

“He is still playing because he is a crowd puller. Organizers know his brand value and hence they would like to have him in IPL.”

“Perhaps he has lost touch and confidence. He’s like Bhishma Pitamah these days, sitting and watching CSK struggle and not taking charge.”

Some feel that it is time for him to retire, while others feel that his presence itself is worth it.

What If Dhoni Retires?

The time when Dhoni retires, it will be the end of an era not just for CSK, but IPL too. The player who has guided CSK to numerous IPL titles is the face of the franchise from 2008.

But CSK has been getting ready for life after Dhoni already. Players such as Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, and Ben Stokes could come in to fill the leadership gap. But Dhoni will not be replaced easily.

The Verdict: Retirement? Not Yet!

Right now, the rumors seem more like an April Fool’s Day hoax than an actual farewell. Check the prank post here-

Dhoni is still playing, still mentoring, and still enjoying the game. Until he makes an official statement, it’s safe to say we’ll see him don the yellow jersey for a little longer.

One thing is certain—when Dhoni decides to retire, it won’t be due to media rumors. It will be on his own terms, like always.

Until that time, just sit back and watch the Captain Cool do what he does best—lead from the front, even if it is from No. 9.