Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend MS Dhoni has candidly admitted that he feels “useless” on the field if he’s not behind the stumps, emphasizing how wicketkeeping remains central to his game-reading prowess in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.

The 43-year-old, speaking in a video shared by Star Sports on Thursday, March 27, 2025, underscored the critical role his position plays as CSK kicked off their campaign with a win over Mumbai Indians at Chepauk last Sunday.

“If I’m not wicketkeeping, I think I’m useless on the field because that’s where I read the game in the best possible manner,” Dhoni said. “It’s a challenge, and that’s what makes it interesting.” Having relinquished captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad last season, Dhoni continues to don the gloves, guiding the young skipper with field adjustments and tactical insights.

His lightning-fast stumping of Suryakumar Yadav in the opener showcased his enduring skill, defying age and a past knee surgery.

Dhoni, retained as an uncapped player for Rs 4 crore, reflected on CSK’s faith in him: “For the last few years—whether it’s two or five—my franchise says, ‘You play as long as you want.’” With 5,243 runs and 24 fifties across 265 IPL matches, his batting now takes a backseat, but his presence behind the stumps remains invaluable.

As CSK prepares to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru next, Dhoni’s self-assessment highlights his unwavering commitment to impacting games from his favored perch.