Will MS Dhoni play IPL 2021? CSK official reveals
Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni has been subject to numerous speculations regarding his future in the sport of cricket, owing to his prolonged absence. Although critics believe that it is only a matter of time before he pads up again, there are doubts about how long would he continue before he hangs up his boots. Meanwhile, fresh reports say he could play until 2021.
Dhoni intends to play until IPL 20201, says CSK official
"There will be a big auction before the 2021 IPL and Dhoni has already told us that he will play the tournament. So, there's no question of his retirement from the T20 version anytime soon," a Chennai Super Kings official quoted to Times of India.
Dhoni to be a part of IPL 2021 Auction pool
Meanwhile, the source added that Dhoni is looking to be a part of the auction pool for IPL 2021, while CSK would once again look to retain him. "That will give CSK the option of using the Right-to-Match card to pick him, maybe for a lower price. Being the captain he is, Dhoni is ready to sacrifice money for CSK's cause," added the source.
Shastri wants to wait until IPL 2020 for Dhoni
Dhoni has also been subject to speculation if he would play the ICC World T20 2020, while India head coach Ravi Shastri, along with the CSK source, has said that his IPL 2020 performance would decide that. "If he has a good IPL, he will very much be part of India's scheme of things in the T20 World Cup," the source continued.
Dhoni yet to play for India following World Cup ouster
For now, Dhoni is on a sabbatical from the sport following the conclusion of the ICC World Cup 2019. Dhoni missed India's campaign against Windies, South Africa and Bangladesh. He will also not be playing the Windies series, next month at home. However, he is likely to participate in the white-ball series against Sri Lanka in January.
Some records held by Dhoni in the IPL
Following are some of the records held by Dhoni in the IPL: He was CSK's most expensive player in the opening season: $1.5 million. He was the first captain to lead an IPL franchise to five T20 titles. He is the first captain to win 100 IPL matches. He holds the record of most dismissals by a wicket-keeper in the IPL.
Should Dhoni play until IPL 2021?
While fans would be delighted to see Dhoni play until IPL 2021, it would all depend upon his performance in IPL 2020 and the matches to follow thereon. As far as his 2021 status is concerned, the author feels that no one should rush or push Dhoni to play until then. Furthermore, if Dhoni is unable to deliver, he should call it quits.
