MS Dhoni expressed that the IPL did not need the Impact Player rule as the format was already competitive and engaging.
India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend MS Dhoni believes that the Impact Player rule is unnecessary to enhance the excitement of the IPL, which is already a high-intensity and popular tournament. Dhoni shared his views during an interview with JioHotstar, a clip of which was released on Monday.
“When it first came out, I said one thing that IPL is in such a good position, aur koi masala daalne ki zaroorat nahi hai (there’s no need to spice it up further),” Dhoni remarked. He explained that the IPL was already producing high-scoring and competitive matches, with games often decided within the first five overs when a team lost too many wickets.
Dhoni subtly responded to suggestions that the rule helps him retain his place in the CSK lineup, stating that it “does and doesn’t” benefit him since he remains actively involved in the game as a wicketkeeper. “In a way, it helps me but it still doesn’t help me because I still do my keeping so I am not an impact player, I have to be involved in the game,” he added.
MS Dhoni Reflects on Changing Batting Approach
Dhoni, who is playing his 18th season for CSK in IPL 2025, also spoke about his evolving batting approach. Known earlier for taking the game deep, Dhoni now prefers to attack from the first ball. He attributed this change to improved pitches and better batting techniques, which have led to high-scoring matches.
ALSO READ | ‘Jasprit Bumrah’s Return Is Still Uncertain,’: Reveals MI Coach Paras Mhambrey
“You have to adapt according to requirements. The way cricket is played nowadays, it’s quite different. The way we were playing in 2008 and the way we played last year’s IPL — it’s very different. We also have to acknowledge that wickets used to have a bit of turn and a bit of two-pacedness early on, now India’s wickets have gotten much better,” Dhoni said.
In CSK’s IPL 2025 opener against Mumbai Indians, Dhoni showcased his sharp reflexes with a quick stumping to dismiss Suryakumar Yadav. Though he faced just two balls in the second innings, he remained unbeaten without scoring.
