Former India player turned commentator Harbhajan Singh said that he and MS Dhoni do not talk to each other. While speaking to News18, the spin maestro has revealed that while he does not have a problem with the former India captain MS Dhoni, he and the former India captain are not friends anymore.

Harbhajan Singh played under MS Dhoni's captaincy for India and CSK

However, both Harbhajan Singh and MS Dhoni were integral parts of the Indian team that won the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup as well. While Dhoni led the team in both editions brilliantly, Harbhajan stepped up with 7 and 9 wickets in respective tournaments as well.

The spinner also shared that he and MS Dhoni did not speak outside the field during their years at the Chennai Super Kings as well. However, both of them played for the Chennai-based franchise where the spinner played between 2018-2020. He further shared that he only rings those people who pick up his calls.

SEE ALSO: Travis Head names one of the greatest pacers of the game

"I don't have anything against him" - Harbhajan Singh on MS Dhoni

"No, I don't speak to Dhoni. When I was playing at CSK, that's when we spoke, but otherwise, we haven't spoken. It's been 10 years and more. I have no reason; perhaps he does. I don't know what the reasons are. When we were playing in the IPL at CSK, that's when we used to talk, and that, too, was restricted to the ground. After that, he did not come to my room, nor did I go to his," Harbhajan Singh told News18.

"I don't have anything against him. If he has something to say, he can tell me. But if he did, he would have told me by now. I never tried to call him because I have a lot of passion. I only ring up those who pick up my calls. I don't have the time otherwise. I stay in touch with the ones I am friends with. A relationship is always about give and take. If I respect you, I hope you will respect me back. Or you respond to me. But if I call you once or twice but don't get a response, I will probably only meet you as much as I am needed to," the spinner concluded.

However, the last time Harbhajan Singh and MS Dhoni represented India together was way back in 2015 – in an ODI against South Africa. After the 2015 World Cup as well. While he did not play after 2015, he announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in 2021 as well.

Former IPL commissioner Lalit Modi has launched a scathing attack on the five-time IPL champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and also mounted serious accusations of potential auction-fixing charges against former BCCI president N. Srinivasan.

Lalit revealed that the moment he started unraveling his infamous fixing plot, Srinivasan had reportedly turned against him. At present, Lalit has leveled two serious allegations against Srinivasan. 

His first allegation centers around Srinivasan's alleged role in influencing the 2009 mega-auction in which he pressured the other franchises to keep away from Andrew Flintoff. And in his second allegation, Lalit exposes how Srinivasan attempted to influence the outcome of the game in his side's favor by appointing Chennai-based umpires.

Lalit Modi gifts Andrew Flintoff To N Srinivasan (CSK)

In a recent interview, Lalit highlighted how the former BCCI secretary played a key role in manipulating the auction to ensure Andrew Flintoff was picked by CSK only. At Srinivasan's request, Modi confessed that he had advised the other teams secretly not to pick Freddie Flintoff. 

"Pick out everything—auction rigging. I gave Flintoff to Srinivasan. No doubts about it; every team knew about it. Srinivasan wasn’t going to let the IPL happen. He was a thorn in our Board. Yes, we told everybody not to pick ‘Flintoff.’ Yes, that I did—because Srinivasan said he wanted it."

See also: Youngest IPL signee Vaibhav Suryavanshi lands in serious controversy

Manipulation plot to appoint Chennai umpires for home games

If that wasn't enough, Srinivasan went a step further to interfere in yet another aspect of the game. He tried to have Chennai-based umpires officiate the home games for CSK so as to ensure that the critical decisions go in his team's favor. Modi labeled this move as "indirect fixing" in his recent interview and spoke at length on how Srinivasan turned out to be a thorn in his side during the formative years of the cash-rich league.

"At first, I didn’t think much about it. But when I realized he was putting a Chennai umpire on a Chennai game, it became an issue for me. That’s called indirect fixing. When I started exposing those things, he went totally against me. When everybody started going back-to-back, he was also a member of the board. He was a big adversary of mine. I went up against him, and he did many things. Umpire fixing—he accused me of it, and I accused him right back. He would change the umpire."

CSK is one of the most successful teams in the IPL with five title under their belt. Under Dhoni's flamboyant and esteemed leardership the Chennai-based outfit soared to new heights. However, the franchise did come under fire when the world first became aware of its role in match-fixing and was subsequently banned as a result for two years in 2016 and 2017. 

Jake Fraser McGurk was stunned after experiencing the madness of craze for the former Indian captain MS Dhoni on the field. 

The 22-year-old right-handed Australian batter Jake Fraser McGurk made his IPL debut in the 2024 edition. He finished the tournament as the third-leading run-scorer for Delhi Capitals in the season with 330 runs in nine innings with an average of 36.66 and a strike rate of incredible 234.04. He scored four half-centuries in that innings.

I couldn't believe that it was for one guy: Jake Fraser McGurk

In a recent podcast, Jake revealed his special experience during the Delhi Capitals’ match against the defending champions Chennai Super Kings. It was the 13th game of the IPL 2024 at Visakhapatnam, where Delhi Capitals won by 20 runs.  

Jake Fraser McGurk said via Unplayable Podcast, "The first ball MS Dhoni hit for a six, it was louder than when he walked in - Whole 30 minutes period was one of the loudest noises I have ever heard. I couldn't believe that it was for one guy." 

MS Dhoni scored 20 runs in the last over

While Delhi Capitals scored 191/5 in 20 overs, Chennai Super Kings only scored 171/6. 

Coming to bat at no.8, former CSK captain Dhoni started with a four. In fact, he hit three fours of that over. In the final over, while CSK required almost impossible 41 runs, Dhoni slammed two fours and two sixes. Spending just the last 22 minutes of the match as a batter, Dhoni scored 37 not out off 16 balls with the help of four fours and three sixes.  

Jake wasn’t in the playing XI for the game as he made his IPL debut later.

Jake made his international cricket debut this year as he has played three ODIs and four T20Is. The youngster holds the record for the fastest century in the List A cricket format scoring a 29-ball century for South Australia against Tasmania at the Marsh Cup.  

The deadline for IPL retentions has been surpassed and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have made the decision to retain Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, Matheesha Pathirana, and MS Dhoni who will now feature as an uncapped player following his international retirement in 2019. This gives them the cushion of a staggering 55 crore in their purse enabling them to recruit a new face in the next IPL season. 

While their attention may be on the star wicket-keeper batter Rishab Pant who is all but released by the Delhi Capitals, the Chennai-based outfit may face stiff competition as other franchises will also be vying to secure his services. In such a scenario, the veteran spin-bowling all-rounder Ravi Ashwin emerges as a likely candidate who CSK could be after in this mega auction. The 38-year-old was a key figure in the CSk squad before parting ways in 2015. 

A potential return on the cards for Ravi Ashwin

According to emerging reports, Ashwin made a startling confession to play for his old franchise Chennai Super Kings. Ashwin was previously associated with the Yellow Brigade since the inception of IPL in 2008. During his formative years, CSK played a pivotal role in shaping his professional cricketing career. He evolved as a player under the leadership of MS Dhoni and was primarily responsible for driving the dominance of the franchise in the early 2010s.

Ashwin has claimed an astonishing 120 wickets for the CSK at a very competitive average of 23.7 between the period of 2009 and 2015. He is the third-highest wicket-taker for CSK in the IPL and is more than a handy customer with the bat lower down the order. Ashwin’s addition to the CSK squad can certainly bolster CSK’s spin bowling department. The off-spinner can operate in tandem with Ravindra Jadeja to wreak havoc on the batters on a spin-friendly Chennai pitch. 

Furthermore, the report suggests that CSK is likely to utilize their Right to Match (RTM) card for the experienced New Zealand opener, Devon Conway. The left-handed batsman has delivered commendable performances for the Chennai franchise, accumulating 924 runs at an impressive average of 48.63 and a strike rate of 141.28.

As the IPL 2025 retention deadline looms, excitement and suspense are mounting, particularly surrounding Chennai Super Kings (CSK), the five-time champions. The franchise recently sent fans into a frenzy with a mysterious post on social media, suggesting potential hints about their top retention choices. With emojis of a helicopter, sword, star, and rocket, CSK’s post read, “The Ones You Seek is Seeking You!” sparking fans to speculate on the players CSK might retain for the upcoming season.

Fans decode CSK’s hints: Dhoni and Jadeja at the top of predictions

Social media erupted with fan theories, with most readers interpreting the “helicopter” as a clear nod to MS Dhoni, famously associated with his iconic helicopter shot, and the “sword” likely representing Ravindra Jadeja, known for his signature sword-swinging celebration. The “star” and “rocket” emojis have led to further debate, with fans guessing Ruturaj Gaikwad, Matheesha Pathirana, and rising talent Rachin Ravindra might also make the cut.

While CSK has yet to confirm these speculations, sources close to the franchise suggest that retaining Dhoni, their legendary captain, is almost certain. Dhoni, who led the team to multiple titles and an unshakable fanbase, has hinted at continuing his journey in the IPL. In a recent event, he expressed his desire to “enjoy the last few years of cricket” without the intensity of his past commitments, adding, “When you play cricket as a profession, it's hard to enjoy it just like a game… That’s my aim now.”

See Also: Kohli set to lead RCB in IPL 2025: Reports

💛😍🔥🤝✅🌟
💪🧑‍🍳⚡🦁🕸️⚓
🚀🧨🏏🥊🛶🎯
🏓🎤🎩⏳🚁🔍
🛡️⚔️🧸🥝🎠🤞
The Ones You Seek is Seeking You!

Tap the 🔗 - https://t.co/MNwIFDgxBK
and play the #DeadlineDay now! #WhistlePodu #Retentions2025

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) October 29, 2024

Shall we finalize with this ? 😉 pic.twitter.com/1VutWt80zF

— R S கோபி (@PortentVlogger) October 29, 2024

Column wise
1st - Rutu
2nd - Jadeja
3rd - Dube 🤔
4th - Rachin
5th - Thala
6th - Pathirana

— Beast (@Beast__07_) October 29, 2024

Jadeja
Rutu
Pathirana
Dhoni
Rachin

— Heisenberg ☢ (@internetumpire) October 29, 2024

Got It ✨

Jaddu
Rutu
Pathirana
Dhoni
Rachin

It's Correct?

— Aravind (@TVFP2) October 29, 2024

Star Boy - Ruturaj Gaikwad
Cook - Matheesha Pathirana
Helicopter - MS Dhoni
Sword - Ravindra Jadeja

Cracker yaara irukum!?

— Sharon Solomon (@BSharan_6) October 29, 2024

Dhoni’s plan for the upcoming season and CSK’s strategic decisions

The decision to retain Dhoni aligns with the hopes of CSK fans and franchise executives alike. CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has voiced full support for Dhoni’s return, and discussions with team owner N. Srinivasan are expected soon to finalize their 2025 IPL squad. Dhoni’s experience, dedication, and leadership skills continue to be invaluable assets for CSK, both on and off the field.

Finalizing the retention list will also likely include young talents like Ruturaj Gaikwad, whose consistency as an opener has made him a fan favorite, and Matheesha Pathirana, a fast bowler with promising potential. Rachin Ravindra is another name circulating due to his impressive performances, making him a desirable choice for CSK’s future.

As anticipation builds, CSK’s fans are eagerly awaiting official confirmation, holding onto the hope that Dhoni will lead their beloved team for yet another season, aiming to bring the elusive IPL title back to Chennai. This blend of seasoned legends and emerging stars could be the ideal formula CSK needs for a powerful 2025 season.

Following the exit of MS Dhoni as a CSK skipper, speculations are rife around the veteran player's participation for the upcoming IPL season. As all teams prepare themselves to announce the list of their retainined players on October 31, Dhoni has casted light on his availability for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.

Dhoni stepped down as a CSK skipper in the last season thus handing the captaincy baton to Ruturaj Gaikwad. Following the introduction of a resvied rule, CSK will have to option to retain him as an uncapped player. As per the latest amendments made by the govering body, franchises will now be able to retain any player who has retired from international cricket for up to five years as an uncapped player.

Speaking in a promotional event in Goa, Dhoni has admitted that he only has a few years of cricket left in him and wants to make the most of it. As reported by ESPNcricinfo, the 42-year-old wants to revist his good old days when he used to enjoy the sport as a child while at the same time balance his emotions and commitments to the game. 

CSK CEO, Kasi Viswanathan was more than happy to receive this positive news on the star wicketkeeper batter and looks forward to welcoming him with open hands ahead of the next season. He was quoted by Cricbuzz for saying the following: "When he is ready, what else do we want? We are happy."

Where will MS Dhoni bat in the batting order in IPL 2025?

As Dhoni now looks all set to feature in yet another IPL season, now the question arises around his position at the batting order. After stepping down from the captaincy duties last year, Dhoni was seen batting lower down the order. This was done as a precautionary measure to avoid further complications for him after a knee surgery operation. But the World Cup winning captain later clarified that this move was adopted to give yognsters more game time higher up the order in a bid to get them battle ready for the T20 World Cup.

Whether or not Dhoni will continue to bat at this order for the next season is something which remains to be seen. Dhoni has an illustrious IPL career spanning more than 264 matches with over 5243 runs. The former Indian skipper has been a loyal servant for the Chennai-based outfit since the inception of IPL in 2008. 

Since the end of the IPL 2024, cricket fans are desperate to know the future of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend MS Dhoni. While the retention deadline is less than a week, fans can’t wait for Dhoni’s IPL future.

The 43-year-old wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni now plays only the IPL. So, his numerous fans are waiting to hear his decision, and we know what his fans want to hear. 

Watch: "I know about it. But I don't know the reason behind it" - MS Dhoni on his viral meme

When he is ready, what else (do) we want: CSK CEO

Cricbuzz has brought a report on it as Dhoni is most likely to play in the IPL 2025.

On Saturday, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan told Cricbuzz, "When he is ready, what else (do) we want? We are happy." 

In another TOI report, the former Indian captain hinted at continuing his IPL career. According to the TOI report, Dhoni said, "I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I am able to play. When you play cricket like a professional sport, it becomes difficult to enjoy it just like a game. That's what I want to do. It's not easy.

"The emotions keep coming, the commitments are there. I want to enjoy the game for the next few years. I have to keep myself fit for nine months, so that I can play two and a half months of IPL. You need to plan it out, but at the same time chill a bit."

However, the CSK team management still wants to talk with Dhoni directly before announcing this good news. While October 31 is the deadline for the IPL teams’ retention, CSK officials are likely to talk with Dhoni by October 28.

Dhoni will talk with CSK owner N Srinivasan soon. 

Dhoni can be retained by the CSK as an uncapped player due to the return of the old rule. However, in this case, Dhoni’s highest retention value can be only INR 4 crore. 

Retention favourites for CSK

Talking about CSK’s retention, Ravindra Jadeja, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Matheesha Pathiran are the top favourite names. Shivam Dube and Devon Conway can also be considered for retention along with uncapped Sameer Rizvi. 

Under Dhoni’s leadership, CSK won five IPL trophies and two now-defunct Champions League T20 titles. After winning the IPL 2023 trophy, Dhoni stepped down from the captaincy role. 

Ruturaj Gaikwad led the CSK team in the IPL 2024, where they finished in fifth place as they just failed to reach the playoffs. 

Veteran India and CSK player MS Dhoni feels that his fans have helped the viral meme 'Thala for a reason' to be in his favour. However, the trend started around December 2023, sparked by fans’ playful banter showing MS Dhoni’s strong association with the number seven as well.

Moreover, Dhoni was also born on the 7th of the month, which fueled the excitement. However, this soon went viral, flooding the internet with memes and keeping the trend continuing so far as well. Even prominent figures and IPL franchises joined in, sharing their views on the wave of “Thala for a reason” posts across social media as well.

MS Dhoni confirms his participation in IPL 2025

Speaking at an event organised by RIGI, Dhoni said that he knew the meme but didn't know the reason behind it. He also said his brilliant fans have turned things in his favour with the meme as well. Dhoni also said that for now his supporters are allowing him to keep quiet and enjoy his life and cricket as well.

"I know about it. But I don't know the reason behind it. I don't know if it is funny, if it is supposed to pull my leg, it's a banter, it's a meme. I think my fans have turned it into something that's in my favour. I have got brilliant fans. I don't need to open my mouth or say something. If they feel somebody has been nasty to me, they take care of it. So I am keeping quiet, enjoying my life and trying to play good cricket. And that's what it is for me," said Dhoni.

SEE ALSO: Watch: Rohit Sharma's Playful 'Rohit Bhai RCB Me Aa Jao Yaar' Query Goes Viral

However, Dhoni, at the same event, nearly confirmed his participation in the IPL 2025 season as he said that he wants to enjoy the last couple of years in the game.

pic.twitter.com/1DOPoIxPFF

— ! (@DhoniVids) October 25, 2024

"I've kept it very simple" - MS Dhoni on his diet

"I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I am able to play. In our childhood, we used to go out to play at 4pm and enjoy the game. But when you play professional sport, it becomes difficult to enjoy cricket, just like a game. It's not easy. The emotions are there, commitments are there. I want to enjoy the game for the next few years," MS Dhoni stated. 

He also opened up on his diet plans as well.

"I've kept it very simple. I'll train for 15, 20, 25 days and then take off for 15-20 days, so it really helps me be in the groove. I can enjoy the food that I want to eat. Once I start training, I follow a good diet, I won't say an excellent diet. That's what keeps me busy," he concluded.

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.

Yas Island (Abu Dhabi) just hosted the 24th IIFA Awards. During that award ceremony, Bollywood King Shah Rukh Khan, popularly known as SRK, compared himself with the former Indian captain MS Dhoni.

During the IIFA Awards 2024, there was a funny banter between the Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan and the Bollywood director and producer Karan Johar. 

SEE ALSO: IPL reveals strict action for illegitimately withdrawn overseas players

Main aur Dhoni ek kisam ke legends hai: SRK

In that award ceremony, SRK said, "The biggest thing about legends… unki khasiyat ye hoti hai ki legends ko maalum hota hai, when to stop, when to retire. Like the great Sachin Tendulkar, like Sunil Chhetri—the footballer, like Roger Federer—the great tennis star. They all know when to retire, and I think it’s time you did too. So please go back. Thank you very much." 

Johar replied, "By that standard, aur us hisab se aap kyon retire nahi hote." 

SRK then added, "Actually main doosre kisam ka legendary hoon. Main aur Dhoni ek kisam ke legends hai. Na na kar ke bhi 10 baar IPL khel jaate hai." 

Meanwhile, another Bollywood actor Vicky Kaushal then added from the crowd, "Retirements are for legends, kings are forever!"

pic.twitter.com/cpnbPByeyA

— Out Of Context Cricket (@GemsOfCricket) September 29, 2024

Still, Indian cricket is enjoying MS Dhoni

Former T20 World Cup and ODI World Cup-winning Indian captain MS Dhoni officially retired from international cricket in 2020. 

However, the 43-year-old wicketkeeper is still active in the Indian Premier League. Dhoni led the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) till the IPL 2023, where CSK won their fifth IPL title. 

Under Dhoni’s leadership, CSK won five IPL trophies and two now-defunct Champions League T20 trophies.

Although Dhoni stepped down from the CSK captaincy role, he played the IPL 2024 for CSK and had an important role for his team.

There is still no confirmation from Dhoni whether he will play in the IPL 2025 or not. However, the CSK fans and many other cricket fans still want to see the wicketkeeper-batter on the field.