(Image source from: Facebook.com/TheChennaiSuperKings)
The Indian cricket authority, BCCI, is contemplating reinstating a regulation they had previously eliminated. This rule would categorize cricketers who have retired from international play for at least five years as "uncapped" players. This was a standard practice since the inaugural Indian Premier League (IPL) season, but the rule was scrapped in 2021 as it had never been utilized. However, during a recent meeting between IPL franchise owners and BCCI, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) management advocated for the rule's return. While other franchises did not enthusiastically support CSK's proposal on July 31st, the Indian cricket board is seriously considering reintroducing the regulation. If implemented, this rule would enable CSK to retain legendary cricketer MS Dhoni as an uncapped player, allowing them to maintain the core of their roster. According to a well-informed source, "There is a strong probability of the rule being reinstated. It was extensively discussed at the meeting last month and could very well be brought back when the player regulations for the 2025 IPL edition are announced."
In the realm of cricket, former Captain Cool, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, has carved a niche for himself with his unwavering dedication and strategic brilliance. As the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) gears up for the 2022 mega auctions, they have retained Dhoni for a modest sum of only Rs 4 crore. This strategic move could pave the way for Dhoni to continue his cricketing journey with CSK without straining their financial resources. Ahead of the upcoming season, CSK had initially retained Dhoni for a substantial amount of Rs 12 crore. However, the iconic player recently passed on the captaincy baton to the young Ruturaj Gaikwad, while playing the entire IPL 2024 season himself. During this stint, Dhoni amassed 161 runs at an astounding strike-rate of 220.55, showcasing his enduring class and impact on the game. Dhoni, known for his cool and composed demeanor, has emphasized the need to wait for the player retention regulations before making a definitive decision about his future. "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 formalised, I will take a call, but needs to be in the best interest of the team," he stated during a recent event in Hyderabad.
Dhoni's playing status has changed - he's no longer considered an international player. Whether he'll return as an uncapped player is uncertain. The facts are clear: he hasn't participated in international matches for a long time, having retired from the sport. Therefore, his playing status has shifted from a capped player to an uncapped one. As Ashwin noted on his official YouTube channel, Dhoni's current position is that of an uncapped player, no longer holding the designation of a capped player. The off-spinner added, “Can a player like Dhoni play as an opener? That's a different discussion. If someone talks about Dhoni, of course everyone will talk about it." The reintroduction of this rule will be a welcome news for CSK and Dhoni fans. This could mean we get to see Tara in action for at least another season.
