TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM/Updated: Aug 1, 2024, 20:09 IST
MS Dhoni remains non-committal about his participation in the 2025 IPL, citing the need to wait for finalized player retention rules before making a decision. he emphasized that his choice would be in the team’s best interest. Dhoni also praised Jasprit Bumrah as his favourite bowler, highlighting Bumrah’s impact during India’s T20 World Cup win However he refrained from naming a favourite batsman, noting the depth of talent in India’s lineup and focusing on the team’s overall success.
MS Dhoni (BCCI/IPL Photo)
NEW DELHI: Regarding his future in the Indian Premier League (IPL), legendary cricketer and former Indian captain MS Dhoni aged 43, remained non-committal amid speculation about his participation in the 2025 edition. “There is a lot of time for it. We have to see what decision they take on player retention etc. Right now, the ball is not in our court. So, once the rules and regulations get formalized, I will take a call, but it needs to be in the best interest of the team,” Dhoni remarked, as quoted by PTI
Dhoni, recently named Jasprit Bumrah as his favourite bowler, praising the pacer’s consistent brilliance, particularly in India’s triumphant T20 World Cup campaign. “It’s easy to pick my favourite bowler because Bumrah is there,” Dhoni said, highlighting Bumrah’s impact, including his 15 wickets at an economy rate of 4.17. When asked about his favourite batsman, Dhoni diplomatically refrained from choosing one, emphasizing the depth of talent in the Indian batting lineup. “It’s difficult to pick one among batters as whoever I see batting, he looks the best. But as long as Team India is winning, I don’t want to pick a batter (as my favourite). I hope they will keep scoring runs for the team,” Dhoni explained.
Dhoni’s statements come as IPL franchises face uncertainty over mega auction rules and the newly introduced ‘Impact Player’ rule, with the BCCI actively engaging with team owners to address these issues. As the cricketing world eagerly awaits Dhoni’s decision, his words reflect the careful consideration and team-first approach that have defined his illustrious career.