CSK reunion: Suresh Raina and MS Dhoni catch-up ahead of IPL retention

Former CSK star Suresh Raina reunited with his ex-captain MS Dhoni ahead of the IPL 2025 retention deadline. While Raina has moved on from the league, Dhoni is expected to return for the IPL 2025 edition.

In Short

• MS Dhoni hints at IPL 2025 return amid speculations for CSK future
• October 31 deadline for IPL retention lists adds to interest
• Raina and Dhoni reunite ahead of the deadline day

Former India and Chennai Super Kings star batter Suresh Raina recently reunited with his former skipper MS Dhoni ahead of the IPL 2025 retention deadline on October 31. The duo share a rich legacy at CSK, having secured four IPL titles together in 2010, 2011, 2018, and 2021. Raina, who retired from the IPL after the 2022 season, remains one of the league's top run-scorers with 5,528 runs in 205 matches, including a century and 39 fifties. Beyond IPL success, he played a key role in India's triumphs under Dhoni’s leadership, winning the 2011 ODI World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy.

Their bond runs deep, with both retiring from international cricket on August 15, 2020. While Raina has moved on from the league, Dhoni is expected to return for the IPL 2025 edition. The 43-year-old, who led CSK to five IPL titles, remains a key figure for the franchise. With recent tweaks to the uncapped player rule, Dhoni is likely to continue adding to his 5,243 IPL runs and 24 half-centuries across 264 matches.

The CSK reunion

Former India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni has hinted at a possible return for IPL 2025, stating he wants to enjoy "whatever last few years of cricket" he can, amid ongoing speculation about his future with CSK. Questions surrounding Dhoni’s plans began when he handed the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad last season and started batting lower in the order.
As the October 31 deadline for franchise retention lists approaches ahead of the mega auction, Dhoni’s position is still a topic of interest. With a reintroduced rule allowing players who have retired from international cricket for five years to be classified as uncapped, CSK may choose to retain Dhoni under this new provision.

Recently, Dhoni shared his current mindset at a promotional event in Goa, stating, "I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I'm able to play. Like how during our childhood, we used to go out and play at 4 pm, just enjoying the game."