Chennai Super Kings (CSK) ended their disappointing IPL 2025 campaign on a high note with a dominant 83-run win over Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. Despite the emphatic victory, the focus quickly shifted to MS Dhoni’s future, as the iconic former captain dropped a cryptic hint about retirement following the team’s exit from the tournament.
CONWAY AND BREVIS STAR IN FINAL CSK WIN
New Zealand opener Devon Conway laid the foundation with a well-paced 52, while South Africa’s young gun Dewald Brevis lit up the evening with a breathtaking 57 off just 23 deliveries. Their explosive partnership powered CSK to a mammoth 230/5 after electing to bat first.
Chennai’s bowlers then backed up the batting brilliance with a unified effort, dismissing Gujarat Titans for 147 in 18.3 overs. Although Gujarat had already secured their spot in the playoffs, they were outplayed across departments in this one-sided contest.
A SEASON TO FORGET FOR CSK
With only four wins from 14 matches, CSK’s campaign officially came to an end, sparking intense speculation about Dhoni’s future. The 43-year-old veteran returned to lead the side midway through the season after Ruturaj Gaikwad was sidelined due to injury.
Reflecting on the season during the post-match presentation, Dhoni acknowledged the team’s struggles. “We didn't have a good season, but today was one of those perfect performances,” he said. “Catching was poor earlier, but it improved today. Still, a lot of areas to work on.”
DHONI’S CRYPTIC MESSAGE ON RETIREMENT
The highlight of the post-match chat, however, was Dhoni’s ambiguous yet heartfelt message regarding his playing future.
“I have 4-5 months to decide, there's no hurry. I need to keep the body fit. You have to be at your best,” Dhoni said. “If players retired just based on form, some would retire at 22. I’ll head back to Ranchi, enjoy some bike rides. I’m not saying I’m done, not saying I’m coming back either. I have the luxury of time—I’ll think it over and then decide.”
LOOKING AHEAD: THE NEXT GENERATION
Dhoni also had words of encouragement for Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is expected to take over full-time leadership next season.
“When we started, the first four matches were in Chennai, and we chose to chase. But the wickets were better for batting first. I was concerned about our batting depth,” Dhoni explained. “Ruturaj has nothing to worry about—he’ll fit into one of the key roles. He’s exactly 25 years younger than me, which does make me feel old,” he added with a chuckle.
PLAYOFF RACE HEATS UP
With Gujarat Titans already locked in for the playoffs with 18 points, the battle for a top-two finish remains intense. Punjab Kings (17 points), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (17), and Mumbai Indians (16) each have one match remaining, and the final league standings will determine who earns the crucial Qualifier advantage ahead of the final on June 3.
