Former India and Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni’s relationship with the franchise has reportedly taken a setback. According to reports, Dhoni wanted to acquire stakes in the team, solidifying his long association with the Chennai-based franchise. However, the deal fell through after the management couldn’t meet his demands, taking a hit on their bond. Notably, Dhoni, a five-time IPL winning captain, has been associated with the team since the beginning of the tournament. Despite multiple franchises openly expressing their desires to get Dhoni on board, the 45-year-old didn’t leave the franchise nor did the team ever release him.
The Ranchi-born, in the twilight of his career, wanted to strengthen his association with the team by buying a stake in CSK. However, per sources, the management didn’t agree to the terms proposed by the cricketer. According to CricBlogger, Dhoni initially wanted to buy a 25% stake in the franchise, but the owners were willing to offer him 3%. The legendary cricketer lowered his demand to 20%, but the management’s offer increased to only 4%. After another round of discussions, Dhoni reportedly offered to settle the deal for an 18% stake, while the management made a final offer of 5.5%.
“Dhoni wanted to buy a stake. He wasn’t asking for it for free, but the CSK management thought otherwise," a source was quoted as saying by CricBlogger.
MS Dhoni-CSK Relationship Turns Sour After Deal Talks Fell Through- Reports
As per reports, the disagreement over the deal talks has soured the relationship between the former skipper and the management. Not only this, but sources also suggest that there is no guarantee over whether Dhoni will play for the team ever again. Notably, the former India captain who guided the team to five titles, was retained by the Yellow Army for INR 4 Crore ahead of the IPL 2025. However, due to an injury, he didn’t appear in a single game for the team in the IPL 2026 season.
There was speculation that the 2025 season could be his last in the cash-rich league, but neither the cricketer, nor the franchise have commented on the same. While it was later reported that Dhoni would play in the 2027 season, the current scenario deepens the uncertainty over his career.
