IPL 2025: MS Dhoni’s parents and wife Sakshi attend CSK vs DC match at Chepauk amid Thala’s retirement talks

In what turned out to be a heartwarming and emotional evening for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) supporters, MS Dhoni’s parents, Pan Singh and Devika Devi, made a rare appearance at the MA Chidambaram Stadium during CSK’s IPL 2025 clash against Delhi Capitals (DC) on Saturday. Joining them in the stands were Dhoni’s wife Sakshi and daughter Ziva, further igniting speculation about the iconic cricketer’s future in the IPL.

The occasion marked the first-ever visit by Dhoni’s parents to watch him play an IPL match in Chennai, a city that has embraced him as one of its own since he first donned the CSK jersey in 2008. The sight of Dhoni’s entire family present at Chepauk sent fans into an emotional frenzy, with many wondering whether the presence of his loved ones signaled a potential farewell tour for the legendary captain.

As images and videos of Dhoni’s family circulated online, social media platforms were flooded with emotional tributes and messages of gratitude.

At 43, Dhoni remains a pillar of the CSK setup, having played over 260 IPL matches and scoring upwards of 5,000 runs. Though he handed over the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of IPL 2024, his leadership presence continues to guide the squad. However, a recent decision to bat at No. 9 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) raised eyebrows and fuelled retirement rumours further.

Stephen Fleming opens up on Dhoni’s fitness

Speaking to the media, CSK head coach Stephen Fleming addressed Dhoni’s evolving role, particularly amid concerns over his physical condition. “His knees aren’t the same anymore,” Fleming admitted. “He evaluates what he can contribute each match. His impact is now more tactical and strategic than purely physical.”

Despite the limitations, Dhoni continues to be the biggest draw in the IPL, with fans turning up in large numbers just to catch a glimpse of the former India skipper. His unmatched legacy, calm demeanor and cricketing acumen remain central to CSK’s identity.

As retirement talks intensify, Dhoni’s every move—on and off the field—is being closely watched. Whether this season turns out to be his last or not, one thing is certain: Dhoni’s impact on Indian cricket and the IPL is forever etched in history.

Here are the reactions of fans:

https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1908477174094397906?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw” data-wpel-link=”exclude
https://twitter.com/utkarsh_dhoni/status/1908475488365854947?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw” data-wpel-link=”exclude
https://twitter.com/eci_parody/status/1908474574183739435?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw” data-wpel-link=”exclude
https://twitter.com/CyrusDhoni07/status/1908477357339324689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw” data-wpel-link=”exclude
https://twitter.com/Pvthaibhai/status/1908476008446984292?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw” data-wpel-link=”exclude
https://twitter.com/ashuu45i/status/1908477457100849179?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw” data-wpel-link=”exclude
https://twitter.com/imviaan_/status/1908474832485744839?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw” data-wpel-link=”exclude
https://twitter.com/Spoidyfanboy/status/1908476412312621501?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw” data-wpel-link=”exclude