‘He Won’t be Able to Stand There and Add Value’: Robin Uthappa on MS Dhoni’s IPL Future

Cric News India IPL News 2025

March 15, 2024 0 1219

Robin Uthappa and other experts shared their thoughts on MS Dhoni’s IPL future and retirement plans.

With the IPL season on the horizon, speculation surrounding MS Dhoni’s future in the tournament continues to grow. Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) teammate Robin Uthappa, discussed the potential factors that could influence Dhoni’s retirement decision on JioCinema.

Dhoni’s recent return to the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai for preseason training fuelled discussions about his potential retirement after the 2024 IPL season. Despite earlier concerns regarding his availability, the 42-year-old veteran underwent surgery in Mumbai last year and appears to be recovering.

Uthappa shared that Dhoni’s batting remains a strong asset, stating, “CSK would let him play even if he was on a wheelchair! Get off from the wheelchair, bat, and then go back. But I don’t think the batting is the issue for him… I think it’s the wicketkeeping. The knees are getting worn out and he loves keeping. So, because he won’t be able to stand there and add value, he’ll probably move on from the game than for any other reason.”

Suresh Raina, Dhoni’s former teammate at CSK, emphasized the 42-year-old’s commitment to the team.

“The best thing about MS is that he comes to Chennai one month or three weeks before the IPL. He bats for around two to three hours under humid conditions and does gym training. During this time, there’s a lot of team bonding and I think it’s something magical,” Raina said.

Former England captain Eoin Morgan offered a similar perspective, highlighting Dhoni’s dedication to the team’s success.

“He’s the type of guy that writes his own script… If his knees are as bad as Robbie eludes, time is probably ticking because he wouldn’t want to outstay the position that he has put the franchise in simply because he’ll always want the franchise to succeed… He’ll want somebody to come in and take over the mantle,” Morgan said.

Additionally, Uthappa and Morgan’s insights suggested that Dhoni’s decision might hinge on his ability to perform effectively as a wicketkeeper. Nevertheless, the CSK skipper will be seen playing his 251st match in the IPL against RCB on March 22nd.