If MS Dhoni's wicketkeeping remains unaffected and his knees hold up, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) icon could end up playing a few more seasons in the Indian Premier League (IPL), believes former India stumper Robin Uthappa.
Dhoni, who led CSK to a record-equalling fifth IPL title last season, has been managing issues with his knees while coming back to don the yellow jersey every year since he first did that in the inaugural edition of the league in 2008.
"CSK would let him play even if he was on a wheelchair! Get off the wheelchair, bat, and then go back," said Uthappa while speaking on JioCinema's 'Legends Lounge' episode.
"I don't think batting will ever be an issue for him. I think it's the wicketkeeping. The knees are getting worn out and he loves 'keeping. So because he won't be able to stand there (in case he can't keep wickets) and add value, he'll probably move on from the game than for any other reason," Uthappa added.
Also featuring on the show was former England captain Eoin Morgan, who said Dhoni won't hesitate from stepping aside once he believes he can no longer continue playing.
"He's the type of guy that writes his own script," said Morgan.
"It's a feeling thing, most likely for him. If his knees are as bad as Robbie (Uthappa) eludes, time is probably ticking because he wouldn't want to outstay the position that he has put the franchise in simply because he'll always want the franchise to succeed. He's so generous with his time, with his respect, he'll want somebody to come in and take over the mantle."
CSK will take on Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL 2024 season opener or March 22 at their home ground, the MA Chidamabaram Stadium, in Chennai.
