Dhoni, who has led the team to five IPL titles in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023, was initially unsure whether he would want to feature in the upcoming edition of the cash-rich league.
“If you see, this is the best time to announce my retirement. But with the amount of love and affection I have been shown wherever I have been this year, the easy thing would be for me to say “Thank you very much,” but the tough thing for me is to work hard for another nine months and come back and play at least one more season of the IPL. A lot depends on the body; I have 6-7 months to decide. It will be more like a gift from my side; it’s not easy for me, but that’s a gift. The way they’ve shown their love and affection, I think that’s something I need to do for them,” he had said when he was asked about his future in the league during the final presentation ceremony last season.
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Ahead of the season, Dhoni, in a viral video being circulated on social media, was asked about his plans after cricket.
And, as usual, the 2011 World Cup skipper gave an interesting reply.
“I have never thought about it. I am still playing cricket. IPL I am still playing. It will be very interesting to see what I end up doing after cricket. I think for sure, I want to spend a bit more time with the Army because last few years I have not been able to do that,” Dhoni said.
WATCH:
The BCCI has decided to ‘retire’ Dhoni’s No.7 jersey to honour his rich contribution to Indian cricket.
The iconic India captain last played for the country in the 2019 World Cup semifinal against New Zealand. He announced his retirement on August 15, 2020 and no other player has worn the No.7 shirt since then.
According to BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla, the Board took the decision on Thursday.
“He is a legendary player. His contribution to Indian as well as world cricket is immense. To honour his contribution, the decision to retire number seven has been taken by the BCCI,” Shukla said.