Speculations are rife that Dhoni will call time on his professional cricketer after the IPL 2023 season.
While Dhoni has teased the idea of his retirement on occasions in the ongoing IPL, the 41-year-old has also hinted towards it at times.
Amid the speculations, former India all-rounder Yusuf Pathan has opined that with the advent of the new Impact Player rule, the legendary wicketkeeper batter can play for five more years in CSK colours.
Even though Dhoni is struggling with a knee injury this season, Yusuf feels the Super Kings skipper can continue to play cameo roles.
“Why should Dhoni leave, with the new Impact Player rule he can play for another five years. Although he may not be the captain, but fans will see him bat and mentor CSK," Yusuf Pathan told ESPNcricinfo.
“In my opinion, Dhoni can continue playing for another five years because of the new Impact Player rule. He has said nothing about retirement, it’s others who have been talking about it. He still has a lot of cricket left in him. He has hit big sixes in IPL, despite pain on his knees. So this shows his commitment towards the sport," he added.
Dhoni has impressed one and all with his batting exploits in IPL 16. The CSK captain has scored 99 runs from nine innings at a remarkable strike rate of 196. He has faced only 50 balls while batting in the lower order, hitting 10 sixes and 3 fours.
It remains to be seen whether MS Dhoni provides any update on his future in CSK’s final league match against Delhi Capitals on Saturday (May 20).
Having gained 15 points from 13 games, CSK will look to nail the playoffs berth by beating DC at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi.