'Dhoni ke bina CSK ek aur PBKS hoga' - Fans react as CSK CEO believes MS Dhoni will play IPL 2024

CSK CEO & MS Dhoni (Source: Twitter)

For a few years now, the suspense over MS Dhoni's Indian Premier League (IPL) future has gripped everyone, and it hasn't ended yet. Although there is no official confirmation of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper's retirement, the legend himself has been dropping hints throughout this season. However, as speculation swirls around whether or not this is Dhoni’s last dance as a player, CSK CEO has issued a major update in this regard.

On Sunday, CSK played their final home game of the IPL 2023 against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Even though the four-time champions couldn't treat their fans with a win, the Chepauk crowd was overjoyed to see their beloved 'Thala' up close after the match as the CSK players did a lap of honour to thank the Yellow Army. It was definitely an emotional gesture from the crowd and the CSK team.

CSK is a blockbuster team in the cash-rich league with a tremendous fan base, thanks in large part to none other than former India captain MSD. With rumors rife that this could be Dhoni's last year, supporters from all over the country flocked to witness the legend in action. However, Kasi Viswanathan, CEO of the Chennai-based franchise, said they believe the 41-year-old will play next season as well.

"We believe MS Dhoni is going to play next season as well so I hope fans will continue to support us like every time," Viswanathan said.

Raina recalls Dhoni's conversation about retirement

Earlier, former CSK all-rounder Suresh Raina also hinted at Dhoni's IPL future. Raina, who is also a close friend of Dhoni, said that the wicketkeeper batter has no plans to retire after this season. The left-handed batter disclosed on JioCinema what Dhoni said to him during their recent meeting during the ongoing IPL season.

"Main trophy jeetke ek saal aur khelunga (After winning the trophy, I will play one more year)," the former CSK vice-captain revealed.

Here's how fans reacted to CSK CEO's statement:

If that's the case

Then announce it right away in press conference

Don't play with fans feelings who say

"It's his last season i want to watch him" https://t.co/fnFq2F7l38

— Cover drive (@Viratkafan23) May 15, 2023

After ms exclusion csk franchise will be a another pbks

— KL Rahul 2.0 (@KL_Rahul_1) May 15, 2023

And you can black market tickets on his name.

— YASH CHATURVEDI (@YASHCHAT9711) May 15, 2023

So he is Playing 1 more year to again Steal credits of others?

— Varad (@Cric_varad) May 15, 2023

They need to develop alternative leadership and not depend on him only.

— s. vishwanathan (@zeezpharma) May 15, 2023

Cricket wants him 💛 pic.twitter.com/9rLPj7Phh0

— 🐐 (@SuriyaThalaivar) May 15, 2023

He literally begging...CSK will become CLOWN without MSD....thats MSD power

— PAVAN KANTAMNENI (@pavankantamneni) May 15, 2023

Looks like they are planning to use his craze and sell tickets in black market in next season as well 🙏🙏.

— Simha (@MegaForceChiru) May 15, 2023

Once he goes the brand will crash and that is why he is saying that

— bhaskaran(BS) (@BHASKARANSHIVAR) May 15, 2023

Bhai iss saal qualify krlo pehle.

Saara mood khraab hua hai Kal raat se

— Mr Om🌬️ (@MrOm14852020) May 15, 2023

CSK ceo knows his team popularity is finished after dhoni retirement

So he is begging fans now 😹😹

— DC HYPE (@17xDC) May 15, 2023

I love dhoni but its starting to get annoying now

— Rahul (@cringyninjaa) May 15, 2023