MS Dhoni’s choice to continue playing in IPL 2025 has drawn mixed reactions, especially after Chennai Super Kings failed to qualify for the playoffs. At 42, Dhoni’s form with the bat has dipped, raising questions about his impact on the team. Some feel he should have retired earlier, allowing CSK to rebuild without relying on his leadership. Others believe he remains a valuable presence.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar stated that Dhoni’s decision to play this season was made in CSK’s interest, not his own. He added that any future calls from Dhoni would also consider what benefits the team most.

“Any player makes decisions not so much for himself, but for what is likely to be good for the team. Whatever decision MSD made about playing this season would have been based solely on what’s best for CSK. Any future decision he takes will also depend entirely on what’s good for CSK—not necessarily what’s good for himself,” Gavaskar told Sports Today.

Sunil Gavaskar Blames CSK’s Poor Auction Planning for 2025 Struggles

Sunil Gavaskar believes Chennai Super Kings’ struggles in IPL 2025 stem from weak auction strategies and ineffective scouting. He feels CSK failed to build a balanced squad before the season began. According to him, scouting efforts should extend beyond regional leagues like the UP or Jharkhand League, which often feature average bowling and smaller grounds.

“First and foremost, they need to get their auction strategy right. I’m not too sure their scouting team is as effective as those of other franchises. That said, scouts shouldn’t rely solely on leagues like the Jharkhand League, UP League, or others like them. Success in those leagues, often played on smaller grounds against relatively ordinary bowling attacks, doesn’t necessarily translate to higher levels,” Gavaskar said.

“Many players who dominate these leagues with big hitting often fail when they face international-quality bowling. So, if you’re scouting talent, focus more on the bowlers. Strengthening the bowling attack is critical—if your bowlers can restrict the opposition and consistently take wickets, you have a real edge,” he added.

Under MS Dhoni’s captaincy, CSK have lost four of their last five matches. They now prepare to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Saturday, May 3, at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, hoping to salvage pride.