(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] The Indian Premier League (IPL) defending champions, Chennai Super Kings, sent a wave of jubilation among their loyal fans by retaining the iconic wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni for the upcoming season of the tournament. Speculations regarding Dhoni’s potential retirement after each IPL season have become customary, yet the news of him donning the yellow jersey once more brought a sigh of relief and excitement to the ‘Thala’ enthusiasts.
Under Dhoni’s unparalleled leadership, CSK has etched its name in history, claiming the coveted IPL title five times, a feat jointly held by Mumbai Indians. His retention by CSK for a substantial INR 12 crore signifies the team’s commitment to harnessing his experience, leadership and on-field prowess for yet another exhilarating season.
In addition to Dhoni, CSK has strategically retained 18 other players from the successful 2023 batch, including stalwarts like Ravindra Jadeja, Ajinkya Rahane, Devon Conway, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Moeen Ali, Deepak Chahar and Mitchell Santner.
However, the team bid adieu to several players, releasing four Indians and four foreigners. Among the overseas players, the absence of the versatile all-rounder Ben Stokes stands out as he opted out of IPL 2024, citing the need to manage his workload and prioritize fitness. The trio of Dwaine Pretorius, Sisanda Magala and Kyle Jamieson were also among those not retained.
Within the Indian contingent, the departure of seasoned campaigner Ambati Rayudu, who retired after the 2023 IPL, echoed a changing era for the team. Bhagath Varma, Subhranshu Senapati and Akash Singh were also released by the franchise.
Looking ahead, with the mini-auction slated for the 19th of December in Dubai, Chennai Super Kings now possess a robust purse of INR 31.4 crore.
Released: Ambati Rayudu, Ben Stokes, Dwaine Pretorius, Sisanda Magala, Subhranshu Senapati, Akash Singh, Bhagath Varma, Kyle Jamieson
Retained:
MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devon Conway, Deepak Chahar, Tushar
Deshpande, Maheesh Theekshana, Simranjeet Singh, Matheesha Pathirana,
Prashant Solanki, Mitchell Santner, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra
Jadeja, Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Ajinkya Rahane, Nishant Sindhu, Shaik
Rasheed, Ajay Mandal,