The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering reintroducing a rule that would classify players who have been retired from international cricket for at least five years as uncapped when they announce player retention regulations for the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL). This rule, originally in place since the IPL’s inception in 2008, was removed in 2021 due to lack of use. However, during a recent meeting between IPL team owners and the BCCI, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) management reportedly pushed for its reinstatement.
While CSK’s proposal didn’t gain much support from other franchises during the July 31 meeting, the BCCI is said to be seriously contemplating its return. If the rule is reinstated, it would enable CSK to retain their former captain MS Dhoni as an uncapped player, allowing them to secure most of their capped core players without significantly impacting their salary cap.
“There is a strong possibility of the rule being reintroduced,” a well-placed source told News18. “It was thoroughly discussed in the meeting last month and could be reintroduced when the player regulations are announced.”
Under the previous retention rule, retaining an uncapped player would only cost a franchise INR 4 crore, potentially allowing Dhoni to continue playing for CSK without taking a substantial hit to their salary cap. Prior to the 2022 mega auction, CSK had retained Dhoni for INR 12 crore.
Ahead of IPL 2024, Dhoni stepped down from captaincy, passing the baton to the talented Ruturaj Gaikwad. The Men in Yellow narrowly missed out on a playoff spot, finishing fifth on the points table. During the season, Dhoni batted lower in the order, delivering several impressive cameos and scoring 161 runs from just 73 balls at a remarkable strike rate of 220.55.
As one of the most beloved cricketers in Indian history, Dhoni’s fans would undoubtedly be thrilled to see him return to the IPL in 2025, showcasing his skills once more in the league.