MS Dhoni's parents at CSK vs DC match triggers retirement speculation

It was a rare sight at Chennai's M A Chidambaram Stadium on Saturday afternoon (April 5) as M S Dhoni's parents Pan Singh and Devika Devi watched the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) IPL 2025 match against Delhi Capitals (DC).

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This was the first time Dhoni's parents were at the Chepauk stadium to watch an IPL game since their son's association with CSK began in 2008. Their presence gave speculations to fans asking whether 'Thala' Dhoni was retiring from cricket.

Dhoni's wife and daughter in attendance

Dhoni's wife Sakshi and daughter Ziva too were in attendance, though they often attend IPL matches at Chennai.

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The official X (formerly Twitter) handle of CSK shared the images with the caption "Home sweet Anbuden ft. The Dhonis! (sic)."

There were talks about Dhoni leading the CSK if regular skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad did not recover in time from a blow on his unprotected elbow against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati last Sunday.

However, Gaikwad strolling out for the toss ruled out any such nostalgic trip back to some glory days.

Gaikwad said at the toss: "My elbow is good, eager to go." Hence, Dhoni just did his regular duty of wicketkeeping and he could be seen in action again possibly when the Chennai outfit comes out for the chase.

Speculations over Dhoni's future

There have been a lot talk surrounding the 43-year-old Dhoni's future in the IPL, and him coming down at No. 9 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru was not a well-received move.

However, CSK coach Stephen Fleming said it was up to Dhoni to take the call on his batting slot.

"It's a time thing - MS judges it. His knees aren't what they used to be. He's moving OK, but there's still an attrition aspect to it. He can't bat 10 overs running full stick, so he will gauge on the day what he can give us.

"If the game's in the balance, he will go a little bit earlier, and he backs other players when other opportunities are up. It's about balancing that," said Fleming.

Currently, Delhi Capitals are in second place on the points table with two wins in as many matches, while CSK are reeling at eighth with just two points from three matches.

The five-time champions' only win of the season so far came against arch-rivals Mumbai Indians.