Is this the end of an era for Chennai Super Kings fans? As the 2025 IPL season wraps up, speculations around MS Dhoni’s retirement have once again taken center stage. After Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) dominant victory over Gujarat Titans in their final match of the season, Dhoni’s response to a retirement question has left fans uncertain about his future.
Chennai Super Kings, despite finishing at the bottom of the points table this year, ended their campaign on a high note by defeating the table-topping Gujarat Titans. In a stunning performance, CSK set a massive target of 230 runs. Gujarat, in reply, collapsed and lost by a staggering 147-run margin, one of the heaviest defeats of the season. Following the match, Dhoni was asked whether fans had seen him in the yellow jersey for the last time. His answer, though measured, added to the suspense.
“IPL 2026 is still a long way off,” Dhoni said. “Whether I retire or not depends on the situation at that time. There’s no urgency to decide right now. One must be physically and mentally prepared to perform at the top level. At the moment, my focus is on staying fit.” He added, “If players started retiring based solely on performance, many would have to quit at 22. I won’t say I’m retiring, but I can’t guarantee a return either. For now, I’m heading back to Ranchi and will enjoy riding my bike. I’ll think about it and decide later.”
Dhoni’s remarks, while not a definitive farewell, have certainly heightened fans’ concerns that this might be the last time they see the legendary captain in CSK colors. As always, the cricketing world waits — and watches — as one of India’s most iconic sports figures continues to keep his future open-ended.