NEW DELHI: Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has expressed strong support for a new rule change in Indian Premier League (IPL) that could potentially benefit MS Dhoni, allowing the former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain to continue playing in the IPL beyond 2024.
Under this rule, players who have not represented the Indian national team for five years will be treated as “uncapped” players, regardless of their past achievements.
Dhoni, who last played for India in the 2019 World Cup, qualifies under this reclassification for the 2025 IPL season.
Speaking on Star Sports, Kaif voiced his approval for this adjustment, emphasizing Dhoni’s immense influence on the game.
“You will get the chance to see MS Dhoni again. He is fit, batting at a strike rate of 200, keeping well, and that is why I believe the rules will keep changing till he wishes to play. If he wants to play in the IPL, he will play. He is such a big player, such a big match-winner, and has been a leader for CSK,” Kaif said.
Furthermore, Kaif noted how the financial aspect doesn’t concern Dhoni.
He referenced Dhoni’s own words, “I believe the rule has been changed rightly. And Dhoni himself says, ‘I don’t need money, I’ll adjust to whatever the team decides.’ Even if he gets 4 crore as an uncapped player (Paise chahe 4 crore mil rahe ho as an uncapped player), it doesn’t matter to him. It sounds strange to say because 4 crore isn’t much for him. Everyone knows the rule has been changed for Dhoni sahab, and why not, you will want to change the rule for a player like Dhoni.”
Earlier, the IPL governing council, in its recent meeting in Bengaluru, approved this rule change for the 2025-2027 cycle, allowing teams to retain up to six players before the auction.
This move has raised excitement among fans as it paves the way for Dhoni’s possible return as an uncapped player.
With the auction purse increased to Rs 120 crore, the new rule not only enhances teams’ strategic options but also gives CSK a chance to hold on to their iconic leader.
