MS Dhoni Retirement Rumours: Chris Gayle Reacts, Fans Divided

MS Dhoni Retirement Talk Heats Up as Chris Gayle Issues Stern Warning to Critics

As the Indian Premier League 2025 season kicks into gear, a familiar name once again commands the spotlight not for his sixes or stumpings this time, but for the swirling MS Dhoni retirement rumours that have dominated headlines and social media. The legendary Chennai Super Kings figure, who continues to play in IPL 2025, found himself at the centre of a viral hoax, renewed criticism, and an outpouring of support from fans and peers alike.

At the heart of the latest storm was Dhoni’s batting position in CSK’s recent clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, where the former India skipper walked out at No. 9 and struck a blistering 30 not out off just 16 balls. While his cameo rekindled glimpses of vintage Dhoni, it also reignited concerns about his role in the side and whether this season might finally be his last.

Ms dhoni broken inside nd now he take retirement from ipl ????@ChennaiIPL@msdhoni @Dhoni_Reenu07 pic.twitter.com/j2KuL511Fz

— JACK SPARROW (@explorer_nagrik) April 1, 2025

Chris Gayle Defends Dhoni, Urges Patience and Respect

In the face of mounting scrutiny, one of Dhoni’s biggest admirers and fellow IPL icon Chris Gayle stepped in with a strong message to critics: don’t force Dhoni out.

Speaking to Insidesport, the former West Indies opener said, “You don’t want to send a wrong message to someone like Dhoni. He is not just a player he brings unmatched value to the IPL. Whether it’s his wicketkeeping, presence, or leadership, people come to the stadium just to get a glimpse of him. Even if he bats at No. 11, fans will still cheer.”

Gayle’s IPL 2025 Dhoni news comments reflect a sentiment shared by many in the cricketing world: while Dhoni might not be the central figure he once was, his impact is still felt on and off the pitch. And if he still wants to play, he should be given the space to do so.

Viral Hoax Sparks Fan Frenzy and Media Confusion

The speculation around MS Dhoni retirement gained unwanted fuel on April 1 when a fake post on X (formerly Twitter) claimed that the CSK veteran had called time on his IPL career. The supposed announcement included a fabricated quote and image, convincing enough to spark panic among fans before it was revealed as an April Fool’s Day prank.

CSK and the BCCI did not issue any formal statement because there was, in fact, nothing to clarify Dhoni had not retired. But the episode underscored just how sensitive the topic remains for the IPL fanbase, many of whom aren’t yet ready to say goodbye.

Adding to the drama was a moment during the CSK vs Rajasthan Royals match in Guwahati, where Dhoni was seen receiving an ‘IPL 18’ memento from BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia. Though meant as a token of appreciation for his 18 seasons in the tournament, the timing led many to believe it was part of a farewell gesture.

Batting at No. 9: Tactical Move or Sign of the End

Dhoni walking in so late during the RCB game raised more questions than it answered. CSK head coach Stephen Fleming addressed the issue, stating that Dhoni continues to manage a knee issue that required surgery in 2023. The plan, according to Fleming, was to hold Dhoni back in the batting order unless the situation specifically demanded his firepower.

But not everyone agrees with that strategy. Former teammate Shane Watson publicly questioned the logic, arguing that Dhoni should be given more deliveries to face.

“He’s still hitting the ball beautifully. If he came in earlier, he could have made a greater impact. I don’t think it’s fair to restrict a player like him to just a few overs,” Watson said in an interview with PTI.

This echoes the growing sentiment among fans who are asking whether CSK is underusing one of their greatest assets in the name of fitness management or future planning.

CSK’s Dilemma: Legacy vs Longevity

Whether CSK is trying to slowly transition into a post-Dhoni era or simply navigating a tough season with an ageing but iconic player, the MS Dhoni retirement debate is forcing the franchise into a delicate balancing act. He was retained for just ₹4 crore ahead of the 2025 season down significantly from his earlier paycheques but remains the face of the team and its cultural cornerstone.

Despite not being captain anymore, Dhoni’s influence in the dressing room is immense. Young players look up to him, and his decision-making from behind the stumps continues to guide bowlers. As Sunil Gavaskar recently noted, “He’s 45, but still hitting sixes with the ease of a 25-year-old. Don’t count him out.”

That said, the schedule is relentless, and CSK has already lost back-to-back matches. The pressure is mounting not just on the team, but on Dhoni himself. Should he be moved up the order? Should he sit out certain games to preserve his fitness? These are questions CSK must grapple with in the weeks ahead.

Fan Backlash and Emotional Reactions

As always with Dhoni, the fans are emotionally invested. While some have raised valid tactical questions about his role, others have lashed out at critics and rallied behind their icon. Still, a section of the online community didn’t hold back, calling his No. 9 position “a humiliation” and suggesting that “he should retire gracefully.”

One viral post read, “He’s watching the collapse silently like Bhishma Pitamah. This isn’t how Dhoni’s story should end.” It’s a reflection of how emotionally intertwined his legacy is with that of the IPL and CSK.

The Verdict: Still Dhoni’s Call to Make

At the end of the day, only Dhoni will decide when to walk away. And if his February 2025 comment “I want to enjoy the game like I did in my early days” is anything to go by, retirement isn’t imminent.

The fact remains that Dhoni still delivers value: as a mentor, as a keeper, and yes, occasionally as a finisher. Until he officially calls it quits, the debate will continue. But as Chris Gayle rightly put it, perhaps it’s time to stop pushing and start appreciating.

MS Dhoni retirement remains speculation. The man in yellow will walk out at Chepauk again this Saturday against Delhi Capitals, and the whistles will blow just as loudly.