Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) already slim hopes of making it to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 playoffs were dashed after their four-wicket defeat against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Chepauk stadium on April 30.
Following CSK's early elimination from IPL 2025, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan was spotted having a long conversation with captain MS Dhoni which immediately caught everyone's eyes.
Despite the disappointing end to their campaign at their home ground, Dhoni appeared to be in good spirits as he interacted with the CSK CEO. This interaction occurred amidst ongoing speculation regarding whether 2025 would be his final season as a player. With their playoff hopes extinguished, the five-time IPL champions will now be playing for pride in their remaining four league matches, as they currently occupy the bottom position on the points table with just four points and a net run rate of -1.211.
Watch CSK CEO's chat with MS Dhoni here:
It will be the first time that MS Dhoni will not be participating in an IPL final for two consecutive years. CSK had previously missed out on securing a playoff berth in the preceding year as well. MS Dhoni returned to captain Chennai Super Kings after Ruturaj Gaikwad was sidelined for the 18th season due to an elbow injury; however, the team's performance did not see a change in fortunes. Despite Dhoni's illustrious record, which includes five IPL titles and appearances in 11 finals, the 43-year-old captain was unable to replicate his past magic this season. CSK remained at the bottom of the league standings, having secured only four wins in their ten matches played. Amidst speculation surrounding Dhoni's future in the IPL, despite the franchise's continued support, his post-match conversation with CEO Kasi Viswanathan following the loss to Punjab Kings has garnered particular attention. The interaction, however, appeared to be lighthearted, with both Dhoni and Viswanathan seen smiling.
With four more matches remaining for CSK this season, questions about Dhoni's future persist. When former New Zealand pacer Danny Morrison inquired about his plans for the next season during a pre-match toss, Dhoni responded humorously, stating that he wasn't even certain about playing in the very next game. "I don't know, I'm coming for the next game," Dhoni had said during the toss.
CSK will look to salvage their pride in the the remainder of the tournament. Dhoni's brigade will next take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on May 3 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.