As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 kicks off, the cricketing world has been consumed by a single topic that dominates discussions among fans and experts alike – the retirement of MS Dhoni from the coveted league.
Many cricket enthusiasts and pundits strongly believe that this season will mark the swansong for the veteran Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper. However, there are contrasting opinions on whether the newly introduced ‘Impact Player’ rule could potentially extend Dhoni’s cricket career.
While Dhoni recently hinted at considering his future, he remained tight-lipped about his participation in the competition next year. Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag, who played under Dhoni’s captaincy, shared his perspective on the CSK captain’s future. Sehwag opined that the 41-year-old will either retire or continue playing as a member of the first team, rather than as an Impact substitute.
Sehwag further emphasized that playing cricket in one’s 40s is not arduous if the player maintains fitness. He highlighted the fact that Dhoni had faced a limited number of deliveries in the IPL 2023, given his batting position.
“The Impact Player rule doesn’t apply to MS Dhoni because he’s playing only for captaincy. He has to stay in the ground for captaincy. The Impact Player rule is for someone who doesn’t field but bats, or a bowler who doesn’t need to bat. Dhoni has to field 20 overs; if he’s not the captain, he won’t even play as an Impact Player. Then, you will see him as a mentor or coach or Director of Cricket,” Sehwag explained during an interview with Cricbuzz.
In contrast, Dwayne Bravo, the bowling coach of the Chennai Super Kings, shared a different viewpoint regarding Dhoni’s future with the franchise. The legendary West Indian cricketer believes that the new Impact Player rule will reduce Dhoni’s time on the field, thereby extending his career.
“100 per cent. Especially with the Impact Player rule. It will keep prolonging his career,” Bravo expressed during an interview with Star Sports after CSK qualified for the final.
It is worth noting that the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings will clash with the Gujarat Titans on Monday, May 29, after the grand IPL final was rescheduled due to incessant rain. CSK aims to secure their fifth IPL trophy, while the hosts seek to defend their title and claim a second consecutive championship.
