MS Dhoni landed in Chennai back in February to gear up for IPL 2025. At 43, having not played any cricket in between seasons, he remains just as crucial to Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) success as ever. His role hasn’t changed—he’s still the finisher—but now in a more smaller capacity, stepping in for a few overs and aiming to clear the ropes with every shot.

"I think his training is very much limited to whatever he tries to achieve," Ruturaj Gaikwad, the CSK captain, said on the eve of their game against Mumbai Indians. "Or whatever his role would be in the IPL. So, it is pretty much very simple, focused on trying to hit as much as sixes as possible and trying to get the right swing, trying to be in the best shape.

"That is what I think initially he was trying to do. And then I never thought he was out of shape even on the first day. So, I think obviously he is special - he's done it for so many years.

"So, definitely that always will be there. If you see now even Sachin Tendulkar is batting as great as he is right even now at the age of 50. So, I think still many years to go."

"So, definitely it inspires a lot of us including myself, including everyone from the group. So, whatever he is doing at the age of 43, I think it is remarkable. It is really commendable.

"And definitely, he will be looking to contribute in the best way he can. But I mean we have certain strengths that we have been following since last two years. So, I think nothing much really changes and hopefully he will continue to deliver those crucial knocks for us."

CSK take on Mumbai Indians, and it remains to be seen how MS Dhoni contributes to the game.