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With the IPL 2023 nearing its end, Chennai Super Kings skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s career in the tournament has again become a hot topic of discussion among fans. Throughout the season, there were speculations that this might be the last time ‘Thala’ is playing in the cash-rich league before he hangs his gloves. Amid the speculations, the former CSK player and current bowling coach, Dwayne Bravo has seemingly confirmed that the 41-year-old will continue to play in the next season of the IPL as well.
The former India captain has teased the idea of his retirement on several occasions in the IPL and dropped hints about it in the ongoing season of the tournament. As the four-time winners of the cash-rich league emerged victorious in a thrilling battle against the reigning champions to qualify for the final, Dwayne Bravo confirmed that Dhoni will be there in the next season also.
In a post-match interview, Bravo was asked whether Dhoni will be seen in the yellow jersey again, to which he replied, “100 percent. Especially with the Impact Player rule. It will keep prolonging his career. He further added, "He bats really deep. I think the likes of Ajinkya Rahane, (Shivam) Dube... these guys make a huge difference. You don't require much from MS. But he has the ability to keep his calm when the team is under pressure."
Earlier during the post-match presentation, when commentator Harsha Bhogle asked him about his decision, Dhoni said, "Frankly, it takes a heavy toll. I have been out of the home for literally four months. I will always come to CSK. I have been out of home from January, been practising since March, so we will see. January 31 was when I got out of the house, finished my work, and started practising from 2nd or 3rd of March. It takes a lot, but I have ample time to decide. I have 8-9 months to decide. Why take that headache now. I have ample time to decide. The auction is in December."
Notably, Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings made their way into the finals of the IPL for a record 10th time as they took down the reigning champions Gujarat Titans by 15 runs in the Qualifier 1 of the season on May 23 in Chennai. They will lock horns with the winners of Qualifier 2 to win their fifth IPL title.
