With MS Dhoni's future at CSK being a hot topic of discussion, there are growing concerns about his potential retirement before the IPL 2025. If the senior pro decides to step away from the game, CSK will be in need of a new wicketkeeper.

MS Dhoni In recent developments, news suggests that the cricketer's participation in IPL 2025 is uncertain. While nothing has been confirmed, there are hints that his return could be challenging. Amidst these uncertainties, the club's CEO Kasi Viswanathan has proposed a significant change for the upcoming IPL 2025 auction.

He suggested the reintroduction of a rule that was in place from 2008 to 2021, which classified players who had retired from international cricket for five or more years as uncapped players.

This has sparked speculation that such a rule could be a strategic move by CSK to retain Dhoni, even if he retires from international cricket. Let's take a glimpse at the three wicketkeeping options, CSK may consider if MS Dhoni calls it quits from the IPL.

1. KL Rahul

KL Rahul has established himself as a reliable top-order batter and a competent wicketkeeper with his consistent performances. However, he came under fire for his form in the last season. If Lucknow Super Giants decide not to retain him ahead of the IPL 2025 auction, it could spark interest from several franchises. Among the teams, CSK and RCB will enter the race.

While RCB might be particularly interested since they recently lost their veteran wicketkeeper, Dinesh Karthik as the latter retired from the IPL. On the other hand, CSK might view Rahul as a successor to MS Dhoni, especially if Dhoni transitions into a mentor role. Considering his dual skills as a batter and wicketkeeper, the Bengaluru-born could be one of the most sought-after players in the upcoming auction.

2. Dhruv Jurel

Dhruv Jurel could indeed be a strong candidate to take over as CSK's wicketkeeper if MS Dhoni opts out of IPL 2025. Jurel has shown promise as a young wicketkeeper-batter, particularly in the shorter formats. He has made 28 appearances in the IPL for Rajasthan Royals, scoring 347 runs at a terrific strike rate of 151.5 including two fifties.

Jurel could be a long-term solution for CSK. It is also no secret that CSK have a history of nurturing young talent, Jurel could be a great fit. The 23-year-old would bring youthful energy to the squad and could be groomed under the tutelage of the experienced players. In case Dhoni transitions to a mentor role, Jurel could benefit hugely from his guidance, which would help him grow into the role both as a wicketkeeper and as a potential leader.

3. Ishan Kishan

Ishan Kishan, another left-handed wicketkeeper-batter, has been a crucial player for Mumbai Indians (MI). However, with the Mumbai-based franchise likely to focus on retaining their core players like Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan might be released before the 2025 auction.

This could open up an opportunity for the Yellow Army, who might be in the market for a young, explosive wicketkeeper-batter if Dhoni calls it quits from IPL. He would not only serve as a wicketkeeper but will be able to fulfil the role of a left-handed power hitter.