Chennai Super Kings (CSK) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kasi Viswanathan has said captain MS Dhoni can continue with the franchise for another couple of years. Kasi doesn't see any reason for Dhoni, who turned 40 on Wednesday (July 7), to stop playing considering he's fully fit.

Dhoni quit international cricket last year in August, but he continues to lead CSK in the Indian Premier League (IPL). "He can continue for another one or two years with CSK. He is fully fit, trains a lot. Don't see any reason why he should stop," said CSK CEO to IANS.

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The 40-year-old was not at his best with the bat last season. Even CSK failed to make it to the top four and finished at the number 7th spot in the IPL 2020 points table. But Kasi believes Dhoni is still valuable for the franchise and his contribution to CSK is not just limited to captaincy.

"As far we are concerned, we are happy for what he is doing for CSK. It is not just about his captaincy or the fact that he is the guide or a leader as the most experienced player. We feel he is still good and brings value as a player to the side. He has been a finisher and is doing that for us," he added.

CSK won five of their seven matches before IPL 2021 was suspended due to COVID-19 pandemic. The phase two of the league is set to begin in third week of September in UAE.

With the IPL mega-auction coming up next year, there were doubts on whether CSK would retain Dhoni or they will look to buy him back in the bidding. But CSK CEO's comments on the veteran wicket-keeper batsman hints towards his retention ahead of the auction. 

(With IANS Inputs)