As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 kicks off with a marquee clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI), the spotlight remains firmly on MS Dhoni.

The legendary cricketer, now 43, continues to captivate fans and pundits alike, with speculation swirling about his participation in what will be his 18th IPL season. Indian cricket icon Sunil Gavaskar, however, has dismissed any doubts about Dhoni’s ability, asserting that the CSK stalwart has a knack for silencing critics.

Speaking on JioHotstar ahead of CSK’s opener, Gavaskar said, “Why should we even ask that question? Why put pressure on him? Every time people question MS Dhoni, he proves them wrong. Don’t doubt his ability. Even at this age, he’s hitting sixes not just past the boundary but into the stands during practice.

Age is just a number when it comes to Dhoni.” His comments come as Dhoni, retained by CSK as an uncapped player following a rule tweak, prepares to take the field at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.

Dhoni’s IPL legacy is unparalleled—264 matches, 5,243 runs, and five titles as CSK captain. With 248 sixes for the franchise, he’s just two shy of a milestone 250. Gavaskar’s confidence reflects Dhoni’s enduring impact, as CSK fans eagerly await another chapter in his storied career against MI on Sunday evening.