File photo of MS Dhoni© BCCI
The IPL 2025 retention deadline ends on Thursday and both experts and fans are trying to predict which big names will find their way into the mega auction. Although neither the BCCI nor the franchises have confirmed anything, the rumor mill is in full swing with many prominent players hitting the headlines. At a recent event, former Indian cricket team captain MS Dhoni was asked about the ongoing discussions and he gave a hilarious answer.
“Everyone is a team owner now,” Dhoni said at the event.
“Whatever player they want, whatever player is auctioned and whoever they want to buy, we should be ready for it. The IPL auction works in mysterious ways,” he added.
Dhoni, who captained the Chennai Super Kings to five IPL titles, recently confirmed that he will take part in the IPL 2025. The veteran wicket-keeper batsman is expected to be brought back by the Chennai Super Kings for just Rs 4 crores thanks to a rule retained by the BCCI for this auction.
According to the rule, a player of the Indian national cricket team is considered “uncapped” if he has not played for the national team in the last five years.
“People are taking part in the auction and there is uncertainty about where you will end up. The most gratifying aspect comes from the fans. They are the ones who make predictions about which team a particular player will end up on. Look, you are in a market where all the teams are well funded,” Dhoni explained.
“Whoever acquires you, you must stand up for them. That is certainly the beauty of the IPL auction. It’s not just a trade, but rather a player moving to another franchise. You have the freedom to go wherever you want,” Dhoni added.
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