MS Dhoni has once again left cricket fans buzzing as speculation swirls around his future, coinciding with the arrival of the IPL 2025 season. The legendary former Indian captain was spotted at the Chennai airport on February 26, 2025, wearing a t-shirt adorned with the coded message "One last time" written entirely in Morse code.
This subtle hint has ignited fervent discussions among fans and media alike, many of whom are contemplating whether this season marks Dhoni's farewell to the IPL.
At 43 years old, Dhoni remains one of the most iconic figures in cricket, particularly noted for his longstanding association with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). His recent airport visit was not just another day for the wicketkeeper-batsman; it was one wrapped up with cryptic connotations, likely reflecting his thoughts on retirement.
The t-shirt's Morse code message was decoded by eager fans on social media, fueling the rumor mill on the possibility of Dhoni stepping away from the game after IPL 2025. Dhoni's tenure with CSK has been illustrious, having led the team to victory five times since the IPL's inception.
Reflecting on his time left as an active player, Dhoni previously stated, "I want to enjoy cricket for the last, whatever few years, you know, I will be able to play... I want to play with the same kind of innocence... (but it is) easier said than done," during the launch of his app earlier this month. This desire to keep things light and enjoyable echoes his approach to the sport.
After announcing his international retirement on India's Independence Day in 2020, speculation surrounding his future within the IPL has been constant. Many believed the 2024 season could potentially be his last, as he had been labeled the oldest active player within the league. Nonetheless, Dhoni returned to CSK for another season and was retained as an uncapped player under new BCCI rules, which classify players who haven't played international cricket for five years as uncapped.
Dhoni's performance metrics during the last IPL season showcased his enduring skill and talent. He played all 14 matches for CSK, scoring 161 runs with an impressive strike rate of 220. While his batting position has shifted lower down the order, he remains pivotal for the team with both his wicketkeeping and strategic decisions on the field.
Despite previous retirement drama revolving around Dhoni, his latest message brings back the conversation around what the future holds for him. CSK has been his sporting home since the inaugural IPL season, and fans are both excited and apprehensive about the idea of his departure from the sport entirely.
Team dynamics at CSK are also shifting, as Ruturaj Gaikwad has taken over the captaincy from Dhoni this year following CSK's disappointing fifth-place finish last season. Fans will be eagerly awaiting CSK's season opener against arch-rivals Mumbai Indians on March 22, which will be telling as to what new stories unravel this season.
With Dhoni's t-shirt lacking ambiguity, his cryptic yet poignant message sends waves through the cricketing fraternity, and it will remain to be seen if the 2025 season is truly his last. Speculation will likely persist as he prepares to greet fans on the pitch once more.
Overall, Dhoni continues to show his passion for the game, with fitness and dedication at the forefront as he gears up for another IPL season. Speculation around his retirement remains strong, and the cricket world stands on the cusp of significant change as the charismatic player teases his fans with the prospect of "One Last Time."