A post-game moment between Royal Challengers Bengaluru star Virat Kohli and Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni on Saturday has fueled discussion about Dhoni's future in the Indian Premier League. The exchange followed Royal Challengers Bengaluru's two-run victory over Chennai at M Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Chennai Super Kings, eliminated from playoff contention, suffered their ninth loss this season. This defeat kept them at the bottom of the IPL Standings. Royal Challengers Bengaluru, on the other hand, climbed to the top of the table with the win, securing a rare double victory over the five-time champions in the IPL 2025 season.
Following the conclusion of the match, Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni hugged. Later, as players lined up for the post-game handshakes, Kohli removed his cap as he approached Dhoni, a gesture of respect captured by photographers and broadcasters.
Star Sports, the official broadcaster for the IPL, shared a picture of Kohli shaking hands with Dhoni on social media. The caption on the image, "One last time?", quickly prompted reactions among fans.
The question echoes ongoing speculation about whether the veteran wicketkeeper-batsman will return for another season. Dhoni has not made an official announcement regarding his retirement plans.
During a recent toss at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Dhoni responded to a question about his future from commentator Danny Morrison. Amidst loud crowd noise, Morrison asked if the reaction meant Dhoni would play next year.
Dhoni replied with a smile, "I don't know, I don't know if I am coming for the next game."
Last month, Dhoni discussed his future during a podcast appearance. He stated his decision would depend on his physical condition.
"I'm still playing IPL, and I've kept it very simple, I take it one year at a time," Dhoni said. "I'm 43, by the time I'll finish this July, I'll be 44. I've 10 months to decide whether I've to play one more year. It's not me who is deciding, it's the body which tells you whether you can or cannot."
He added, "Fully focussed on what needs to be done right now. We will see after that, after 8-10 months."
