Manoj Tiwary Suggests MS Dhoni Should Have Retired After IPL 2023

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season continues to make headlines—not just for its thrilling matches, but also for off-field opinions about cricketing greats. Former Indian cricketer and Bengal captain Manoj Tiwary is the latest to voice a strong opinion on MS Dhoni’s ongoing IPL career, suggesting the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) icon should have retired after the 2023 season.

In an exclusive interview on a post-match panel discussion, Tiwary shared his thoughts candidly, stating that Dhoni had “nothing left to prove” after guiding CSK to their fifth IPL title in 2023 and should have bowed out gracefully.

Tiwary: "The perfect ending was already there in 2023"

Speaking to a cricket broadcast panel, Tiwary didn’t hold back:

“In 2023, Dhoni won the title in what many saw as a fairytale ending. That was the perfect time to retire — as a champion, with the trophy in hand. Coming back again in 2025 doesn’t make sense to me, especially when the team is trying to rebuild.”

Tiwary’s remarks came after CSK’s recent 25-run loss to Delhi Capitals in Match 17 of IPL 2025, where despite Dhoni’s unbeaten 41 off 20 balls, CSK fell short in their chase.

A Growing Debate Around Dhoni's Role in CSK

MS Dhoni, now 43, is no longer the official captain of the team but continues to influence strategies and on-field decisions. He bats in the lower order, typically taking the finisher's role — a job he once mastered but now faces challenges in executing consistently.

Tiwary emphasized that while Dhoni's experience is valuable, his continued presence might be limiting opportunities for younger players:

“Every time Dhoni walks out to bat, it means someone else isn’t getting that experience. How will CSK build their future if the legend doesn’t step aside?”

Mixed Reactions from the Cricketing Community

Tiwary’s comments sparked mixed reactions across the cricketing spectrum. While some experts agree with his sentiment, others feel Dhoni’s legacy and game awareness still make him a vital part of CSK.

Former Indian coach Anil Kumble, speaking on a different channel, offered a more balanced take:

“It’s Dhoni’s personal decision. If he believes he can still contribute, he has earned the right to choose when to retire. But yes, CSK will need to plan for the future soon.”

Meanwhile, fans flooded social media platforms to either defend Dhoni or echo Tiwary’s view.

  • @YellowTillIDie: “Dhoni gave us the best years. Let him decide. Don’t disrespect a legend.”

  • @CricketRealist: “Tiwary is right. Dhoni’s IPL legacy is unmatched. But 2023 was the golden exit. This season feels forced.”

A Look Back: Dhoni’s IPL 2023 Glory

IPL 2023 saw MS Dhoni lifting the trophy for CSK, cementing their place as one of the most successful franchises in IPL history. Dhoni’s captaincy and game-reading were pivotal in CSK’s journey, although his personal batting contributions were limited.

The final match in 2023 was seen by many as a cinematic ending, with fans chanting “Thala for life” and even speculating that it would be his final appearance. Yet, Dhoni surprised everyone by announcing he would return for one more season as a gesture of gratitude to fans.

CSK’s IPL 2025 Campaign So Far

So far in IPL 2025, CSK have struggled to find momentum. With only 2 wins out of 5 matches, their campaign has been inconsistent, raising questions around team composition and leadership.

While Ruturaj Gaikwad is officially the captain, Dhoni’s influence is still visible during field settings and DRS decisions. Critics argue that the dual-command structure may be causing confusion and affecting player development.

What’s Next for MS Dhoni and CSK?

Despite the criticism, Dhoni’s fitness and reflexes continue to impress. In the recent match, he displayed trademark helicopter shots and agile wicketkeeping, proving he's still capable of magical moments. However, the broader concern is whether these moments are enough to justify a spot in a team that needs to build for the future.

Tiwary’s suggestion adds weight to the growing sentiment that CSK should begin a transition era, with Dhoni perhaps moving into a mentorship or strategic role off the field, allowing new players to take center stage.

Dhoni’s Legacy Remains Untouched

While debate surrounds his current form, MS Dhoni’s IPL legacy is beyond question:

  • Most successful IPL captain alongside Rohit Sharma (5 titles each)

  • Over 5,000 IPL runs

  • Widely respected for his calmness, leadership, and tactical acumen

  • Instrumental in grooming players like Ravindra Jadeja, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Deepak Chahar

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Conclusion

Whether Manoj Tiwary’s advice is accepted or dismissed, one thing is clear — MS Dhoni remains the heart of IPL discussions, and every match he plays in IPL 2025 is viewed under a magnifying glass. As CSK prepare for their next match, fans and experts alike will be watching closely to see if Dhoni can silence his critics once again—or decide that it's finally time to pass the torch.