The Indian Premier League (IPL) Governing Council has revived the “uncapped player” rule, paving the way for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to retain former captain MS Dhoni for INR 4 crore. This rule, which was removed in 2021, allows franchises to retain specific players at a lower price point, benefiting CSK as Dhoni prepares for his 18th IPL season. However, the decision has met with criticism, especially from former cricketers Mohammad Kaif and Sanjay Manjrekar, who have raised questions about its fairness.
Under the rule, CSK retained Dhoni at a relatively low cost, while securing four additional key players ahead of the upcoming mega auction. The retained list includes captain Ruturaj Gaikwad (INR 18 crore), Matheesha Pathirana (INR 13 crore), Shivam Dube (INR 12 crore), and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja (INR 18 crore). This retention strategy leaves CSK with one Right to Match (RTM) card and a significant auction budget of INR 55 crore.
Speaking in a show, Mohammad Kaif commended CSK’s tactical use of the “uncapped player” rule. He observed, “CSK have played really well. They have saved 10-15 crores,” and highlighted that this surplus allows CSK the opportunity to target marquee players in the auction. Kaif suggested that the rule’s reintroduction may have been influenced by widespread public sentiment to see Dhoni continue in the league. “I feel the way this rule was brought back…we were driven by emotions, and we all really wanted MS Dhoni to play another year,” he noted.
Kaif further emphasized that CSK’s choice to retain Dhoni at a lower cost was a smart financial move, enabling them to strengthen their lineup in the auction. “Yes, he is taking less money, but it would allow CSK to buy big names players at the auction,” he added.
The reinstatement of the “uncapped player” rule has sparked discussion among analysts and fans about its impact on team dynamics and auction strategies. As CSK heads into the mega auction with substantial resources and Dhoni’s leadership intact, all eyes will be on their squad-building decisions and whether they capitalize on their auction advantage.
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