BCCI mulls bringing back the ‘uncapped player’ rule to enable Dhoni’s IPL return.
The BCCI is considering reintroducing the ‘uncapped player’ rule ahead of IPL 2025 player regulations. The rule deems cricketers retired from international cricket for over five years as uncapped.
Scrapped in 2021, it was discussed at the recent IPL franchises meeting. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) management is believed to have backed its return to help former skipper MS Dhoni extend his IPL career.
As per the rule, uncapped players can be retained for Rs 4 crore only. This could allow CSK to hold on to Dhoni without burning a big hole in their purse after retaining him for Rs 12 crore previously.
The wicket-keeper batter gave up CSK captaincy this year but remained active, scoring runs at a healthy strike rate. While discussing his future, Dhoni said he would take a call based on regulations.
Off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin also said Dhoni should be considered uncapped now, having retired from international cricket long ago.
Fans and CSK would welcome the move as it could give Dhoni one more IPL season. The reigning champions have been the strongest backers of the rule’s restoration.
With significant discussions held over it, the BCCI seems ready to make a U-turn on the uncapped player clause to facilitate the iconic cricketer’s potential return. An official announcement is awaited.
