Dhoni may retire as player, become CSK mentor: Badrinath

V.B. Badrinath, who played alongside MS Dhoni during his tenure at Chennai Super Kings, has offered insight into a potential next chapter for the cricket icon. Speaking about Dhoni's future, Badrinath suggested the former India captain may step away from active participation in the Indian Premier League to take on a behind-the-scenes role with CSK.

According to Badrinath's projection, Dhoni could transition into a position combining mentorship and batting coaching duties with the franchise he has led since the IPL's inception. This speculation comes as Dhoni continues to lead CSK in the league and remains a key player in the team's batting lineup.

The suggestion has generated considerable reaction among cricket followers, with many fans expressing concern about the possibility of losing Dhoni as an active player. At 43, Dhoni has continued to demonstrate his value to CSK, though questions about the timing of his retirement from professional cricket have long been a subject of discussion.

If such a transition were to occur, it would mark a significant shift in how Dhoni contributes to the franchise that has become synonymous with his leadership and style of play. CSK has not made any official announcement regarding changes to Dhoni's role with the team.