MS Dhoni stands among the rare few who have featured in every IPL season since its inception in 2008. As the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) take on the Delhi Capitals (DC) in Match 17 of IPL 2025, speculation is swirling that this might be the legendary captain’s final appearance on the field.
Even the slightest move by Dhoni sends shockwaves through the cricketing world. With a fan base that spans over a billion across the nation, he remains a central figure in headlines—often without uttering a word.
Though known for his quiet demeanor, the IPL offers fans a brief window into Dhoni’s world. And with the former India captain now in the twilight of his career, retirement rumors tend to flare up quickly and frequently.
Dhoni’s IPL career is a testament not just to longevity, but to unwavering consistency. Across 267 matches, he has scored 5,289 runs at an impressive strike rate of 137.70. For CSK alone, he’s played 237 games, amassing 4,715 runs at an average nearing 40.30—an outstanding feat for someone who typically bats in the lower middle order.
MS Dhoni’s parents, wife, and daughter are present in Chepauk to cheer him on
Their presence has sparked fresh discussions about Dhoni’s potential retirement, especially with growing speculation that this could be his final season. The sight of Dhoni’s father and mother in the stands has only intensified these rumors, with many wondering if the match against Delhi Capitals might be his last as a player.
Adding to the emotional weight of the moment, Dhoni’s wife, Sakshi, and daughter, Ziva, were also seen supporting him from the stands. CSK further fueled the speculation by sharing photos of Dhoni’s family—his parents, Sakshi, and Ziva—on social media, highlighting the significance of the occasion.
Home sweet Anbuden ft. The Dhonis! 🏠🏟️#CSKvDC #WhistlePodu #Yellove 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/Bj1rnt1nCw
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 5, 2025
MS Dhoni has always kept his personal life away from the spotlight. His family, especially his parents, have rarely been seen in the stands—even during high-stakes IPL matches. So when the camera finally caught a glimpse of them, it felt significant.
Over the years, Dhoni has defied expectations and timelines. Even after officially retiring from international cricket in 2020, he continued to stay active. In 2023, he led CSK to yet another IPL title. Since then, every season has felt like a bonus for fans across the country—millions of whom flock to stadiums just to catch a glimpse of the beloved former Indian captain who once led the team to glory across all three formats.