Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming has dismissed retirement talk around MS Dhoni, noting that it is not his responsibility to end the iconic cricketer's IPL career.  

The speculation grew after Dhoni's parents were sighted at the MA Chidambaram Stadium during CSK's 25-run loss to Delhi Capitals on Saturday, their third consecutive loss in IPL 2025.

Dhoni stepped out to bat at No. 7 in the 11th over, however, he was unable to turn CSK's fortunes in their home match against the Delhi Capitals. The veteran combatant finished unbeaten on 30 off 26 balls, a score that may appear respectable on paper.

Dhoni's first 18 balls yielded only 13 runs, and it wasn't until the 18th and 19th overs that he showed signs of his aggressive striking.

Fleming stated that Dhoni is still going strong, and it was not his job to push him out. “No, that’s not my role to put an end to it. I have no idea. I’m just enjoying working with him. He’s still going strong. I don’t even ask these days. You guys are the ones that ask,” Fleming said in post-match presentation.

Fleming defended the move of Dhoni batting at no.7, saying it wasn’t a damage-control tactic, but a reflection of tough batting conditions in the second half.

“When he went out, the ball started to grip more. Vijay [Shankar] struggled throughout. That 12-16 over period was just very hard to bat. The game was slipping, and even with intent, it was just too much,” he added.

On CSK’s continued inconsistency, Fleming stressed the need for more from the top order.

“We need more production from the top three or four. That allows power hitters to come in at the right time. Right now, we’re having to introduce players at the wrong moments,” he added.

CSK will next travel to Mullanpur to take on Punjab Kings on April 8.

(ANI inputs)