CSK propose rule change to retain MS Dhoni as uncapped player for next IPL edition

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have suggested a potential rule change to the Indian Premier League (IPL) that could allow them to retain their iconic player, MS Dhoni, as an uncapped player for the 2025 season. This proposal has sparked debate among franchises and raised questions about player valuation and fairness in the league.

The IPL has been a cornerstone of Indian cricket since its inception in 2008, with rules evolving to maintain a competitive balance. Until 2021, a rule existed that classified players who had been retired from international cricket for five or more years as uncapped. This rule was reportedly scrapped at the request of teams, but CSK now seeks its restoration.

During a recent meeting between the IPL committee and the ten franchises in Mumbai, CSK proposed bringing back the old rule. Their motivation appears to be retaining the veteran wicketkeeper-batter, who retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020. If implemented, this change could allow CSK to retain Dhoni for the next season at a significantly reduced price compared to his current retention cost of INR 12 crore.

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However, the suggestion has met with resistance from other franchises. Sunrisers Hyderabad owner Kavya Maran argued that classifying retired internationals as uncapped players would disrespect their value and set a wrong precedent. She suggested that allowing the market to determine a player’s worth through the auction process would be more appropriate.

Other teams also backed this statement, with several franchises opposing the idea of considering former international players in the uncapped category, regardless of their retirement duration.

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The discussion also touched on a related issue concerning retired Indian players. Franchises unanimously agreed to a proposal allowing Indian players who haven’t represented the national team in five years to lower their base price at auctions.

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