Should MS Dhoni Retire Now? The Hard Truth About His Fading Legacy in IPL 2025

MS Dhoni—the name itself evokes memories of World Cup triumphs, last-over finishes, and ice-cool leadership. But as IPL 2025 unfolds, a painful question looms: Is Dhoni’s prolonged career now eroding the very legacy he built?

Dhoni’s Struggle in IPL 2025: A Shadow of His Former Self?

The recent CSK vs. Delhi Capitals match was a wake-up call for fans. Chasing 78 runs in 30 balls, Dhoni walked in with hope—but what followed was a painfully slow innings (12 off 17 balls) with zero aggression.

Key Concerns from Dhoni’s Batting:

Once upon a time in CSK Middle order#CSKvsDCpic.twitter.com/8Udn0imUSx

— Forever_ICT (@loyal_cskian) April 5, 2025

• No Intent: At a time when CSK needed a miracle, Dhoni’s strike rate of 70 killed the chase.
• No Big Hits: Just one boundary in 26 balls—unthinkable for a player once known as the “Best Finisher.”
• Falling Behind Modern T20 Cricket: Today’s IPL demands 200+ scores, but Dhoni’s approach looks outdated.

The Perfect Retirement Moment: Missed in IPL 2023?

Last year, when Ravindra Jadeja hit the winning runs in the IPL final, it was the perfect farewell—a trophy lift, a roaring Chepauk crowd, and an unbeaten legacy.

But Dhoni stayed. Now, fans wonder: “Is he overstaying his welcome?”

Is Dhoni Damaging His Own Legacy?

1. The Comparison with His Prime

• 2016 Dhoni: Would finish games with sixes at will.
• 2025 Dhoni: Struggles to rotate strike, let alone hit big.

2. CSK’s Decline

• Top Order Collapsing – Ruturaj, Conway, Dube failing consistently.
• No Fear Factor – Opponents no longer fear Dhoni’s finishing.
• Team Looks Outdated – While teams like KKR, RR dominate with aggressive cricket, CSK is stuck in the past.

Once upon a time in CSK Middle order#CSKvsDCpic.twitter.com/8Udn0imUSx

— Forever_ICT (@loyal_cskian) April 5, 2025

3. Fans’ Emotional Conflict

Dhoni’s fans still love him, but they’re hurting—watching him struggle feels like watching a legend fade in slow motion.

Should Dhoni Retire Mid-Season?

Arguments FOR Retirement

✅ Legacy Protection – Greats like Shane Warne, Jacques Kallis, and AB de Villiers retired before decline.
✅ CSK’s Future – The team needs new leadership (Ruturaj? Rachin?).
✅ Respect Over Nostalgia – Better to exit gracefully than become a liability.

Arguments AGAINST Retirement

❌ Fan Sentiment – Millions still want to see him, even for nostalgia.
❌ Mentorship Role – His presence helps young players.
❌ What If He Bounces Back? – One big innings could change the narrative.

The Inevitable Goodbye

Dhoni’s 2013 Test retirement was a masterstroke—he left on his own terms. But IPL 2025 feels different.

If Dhoni continues like this, he risks being remembered for his struggles rather than his glory.

What Should Dhoni Do?

• Announce retirement mid-season (like Shane Warne in 2008).
• Transition into a mentor/coach role for CSK.
• Let a new finisher rise—because cricket must move forward.

One thing is clear: The longer Dhoni stays without impact, the more his legend fades. And that’s a tragedy no fan wants to witness.