The anticipation for the IPL 2025 mega auction is growing, and with it, discussions surrounding team compositions and strategies have taken center stage. One particular rule change by the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) has sparked considerable debate: the definition of an "uncapped player." This rule, which allows teams to retain a cricketer who hasn’t played international cricket for the last five years, has particularly stirred excitement among Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fans, as it could pave the way for MS Dhoni's retention.

Former South African cricketer and IPL legend AB de Villiers weighed in on the debate during a recent video on his YouTube channel titled “Want To See MSD Play Till 80!”. De Villiers speculated that the new uncapped player rule might have been designed with Dhoni in mind, given his immense influence in world cricket.

"I do feel the uncapped player rule brought back only for MS Dhoni and rightfully so we want to see this man play until his 80s. Everywhere you go, you talk about cricket and his name always comes up," said de Villiers on his YouTube channel, 360 degree podcast.

Under the new IPL retention rules, any player who has not been part of India's playing XI in the past five years or does not hold a central contract with the board can be considered an uncapped player. This would make Dhoni eligible to be retained by CSK, igniting hopes among fans that they may see him lead the team in the upcoming IPL season.

With the ability to retain six players and the use of Right to Match (RTM) cards, CSK’s approach to the mega auction will be closely watched. The franchise will likely focus on the possibility of retaining their iconic captain under the new rule, adding another exciting layer to the 2025 auction drama.