Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni finally put an end to speculations on whether the 2023 season of Indian Premier League (IPL) is going to be his final season as a player or not. Speculations were rife that the legendary wicket-keeper plans to call time on his IPL career, immediately after IPL 2023 gets over. After leading four-time IPL winners CSK to a 15-run win over defending champions Gujarat Titans in IPL 2023 Qualifier 1 match on Tuesday (May 24), MS Dhoni was asked by commentator Harsha Bhogle to reveal his future plans in IPL. "Will you come and play here in Chepauk again?" Dhoni was asked by Harsha during the post-match presentation, referring to his final home game in IPL 2023 at Chepauk, with the IPL 2023 final to take place at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. In reply, Dhoni made it absolutely clear that he won't decide on his IPL career immediately after the ongoing season ends.
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"I don't know. I have eight or nine months to decide. The small auction will be around December, so why to take that headache right now? I have ample time to decide. I will always be there for CSK, whether it is in the playing form or sitting somewhere outside," MS Dhoni said in the post match-presentation ceremony.
"Frankly, it takes a heavy toll. I have been out of form for literally four months now. Jan 31st was the time when I finished my work and started practising from 2nd-3rd of March. It takes a lot but I have ample time to decide."
Senior CSK players Ajinkya Rahane and Ben Stokes are potential successors who might replace MS Dhoni when and if he announces IPL retirement.