Former India cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni was spotted attending Radhika Merchant's birthday party on October 18. Radhika, who recently tied the knot with Anant Ambani, son of India’s renowned business tycoon Mukesh Ambani, celebrated her special day with several high-profile guests, including Dhoni. The cricketing legend, known for his low-key presence, made headlines once again after a picture of him at the event surfaced online, going viral in no time.

MS Dhoni attends Radhika Merchant's star-studded birthday

MS Dhoni, affectionately known as ‘Captain Cool,’ has always maintained a cordial relationship with the Ambani family. He previously attended Radhika and Anant Ambani’s wedding in Jamnagar and even extended his wishes to the couple through a heartfelt Instagram post.

At the birthday celebration, Dhoni, dressed in his usual casual yet elegant style, posed for a photograph with one of Radhika’s friends. The picture, as expected, quickly made its way to the internet, where it spread like wildfire. Fans of Dhoni were delighted to see their idol enjoying the star-studded bash alongside Bollywood celebrities, creating a buzz on social media. His calm demeanor at public events continues to charm fans across the country.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Orhan Awatramani (@orry)

MS Dhoni with Orry at Radhika Merchant Birthday party..!! 🌟 pic.twitter.com/4lAP22c9bI

— Pragnesh Patel (@Pragnesh1935) October 18, 2024

While Dhoni's presence at the birthday party made waves, fans of the cricketing icon are equally eager to know about his future in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The 43-year-old, who stepped down from his captaincy role at Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in 2024, is now playing solely as a player. Dhoni had earlier hinted that his return to IPL in 2025 would depend on the new retention rules introduced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

The BCCI recently revealed these new rules, which allow six retentions, including one uncapped player. Interestingly, Dhoni, who last played for India in 2019, could now qualify as an uncapped player in the IPL, even after representing the country for 16 years. With his stature and immense contribution to Indian cricket, fans are hopeful that the ‘Thala’ of CSK will continue to be part of the league. His retirement from international cricket on August 15, 2020, had left a void, but his presence in IPL keeps his legacy alive.

See Also: Watch: Rohit Sharma’s fifty ends in disbelief; Video goes viral

Mohammed Kaif on Dhoni’s uncapped retention

Former India cricketer Mohammed Kaif recently weighed in on the matter, expressing his thoughts on the new rules and Dhoni’s unique position. Kaif pointed out that Dhoni has always been a selfless player, and money has never been his prime motivation. Speaking about the retention, Kaif said, “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, it doesn't matter to him."

Kaif went on to state that Dhoni’s legacy and contribution to Indian cricket warrant special considerations. "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,” he added. Kaif’s remarks highlight Dhoni’s continued relevance in Indian cricket, even years after his international retirement.

MS Dhoni continues to captivate fans both on and off the field. His appearance at Radhika Merchant's birthday party stirred excitement among his followers, while speculations about his return to IPL under the new retention rules only add to the anticipation. With cricket legends like Mohammed Kaif championing his value, Dhoni’s presence in the IPL, whether as an uncapped player or in another role, remains highly anticipated. For now, his fans can enjoy seeing glimpses of their hero at star-studded events while waiting for his next move in the world of cricket.