As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 kicks off, the spotlight once again falls on MS Dhoni, the cricketing icon who, at the age of 43, is gearing up for his 18th consecutive IPL season. Despite retiring from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni's influence in the world's richest cricket league remains undiminished.

Dhoni's Legacy in IPL

Dhoni, who will turn 44 in July, has been a cornerstone of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), representing the team in 16 of his 18 IPL seasons. His leadership and presence continue to captivate fans, making him the oldest player in this year's tournament. While he may not be the oldest to have ever played in the IPL—that record belongs to Brad Hogg and Pravin Tambe—Dhoni's enduring performance is a testament to his exceptional skill and fitness.

Statistical Brilliance

In his illustrious IPL career, Dhoni has amassed 5,243 runs, placing him sixth on the all-time run list. His career batting average of 39.12 surpasses that of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, and his strike rate of 137.53 is among the best in the league. Dhoni's prowess isn't limited to batting; as a wicketkeeper, he boasts 180 dismissals, a record that remains unmatched.

Leadership and Impact

Dhoni holds the record for the most IPL matches as captain (210) and the most wins (123), leading CSK to five IPL titles and two Champions League titles. His leadership has also guided India to three ICC titles: the T20 World Cup (2007), ODI World Cup (2011), and Champions Trophy (2013).

The Current Season

Despite the physical toll of advancing age, Dhoni remains mentally tough and highly competitive. Last season, he adapted his role to provide valuable cameos, a strategy that could continue in 2025 with the impact player rule now integral to the IPL. This rule allows teams to pick an extra specialist batter or bowler based on the game situation, a role Dhoni could excel in while mentoring the squad.

The Unthinkable IPL Without Dhoni

For CSK, retaining Dhoni is a no-brainer. His appeal extends beyond the team, offering massive commercial and branding benefits to both the franchise and the IPL. As CSK aptly puts it, an IPL without Dhoni is "unthinkable." Meanwhile, former teammates and rivals alike warn against underestimating the ageless wonder, as Dhoni continues to defy expectations and deliver match-winning performances.