New Delhi: Ever since the first IPL season in 2008, Chennai has been MS Dhoni's second home.


COMMERCIAL BREAK
SCROLL TO CONTINUE READING

It was evident from the 4th ODI of the ongoing series exactly how much the Chennai fans love their skipper.


However, the CSK fans may never get to see their Dhoni in the famous yellow jersey again.


According to a report in the Times of India, Mahi is set to join a new franchise for the next edition of the IPL.


Initially, there were reports of him not being part of the cash-rich league, but it is now learned that the wicketkeeper-batsman will end his eight-year association with CSK to play for a new team.


"Dhoni will definitely feature in the IPL for a new team. There is absolutely no pressure from CSK to stop him and the next edition of the IPL will see him in action," a source close to the developments told TOI.


"He (Dhoni) is the Indian captain in ODIs and T20. How can he not play in an important event like the IPL?


We won't say Dhoni's association with CSK is over, but for now, he will play for some other team," the source further added. 


There has been no decision as to which teams will replace CSK and RR. But rest assured, Dhoni will be the main target for both the new IPL entrants.


Six players from CSK and RR could be slotted into new teams through a draft process, while others could go into the auction pool.


After his acquisition by Chennai for $1.5 million (then worth about Rs 7.5 crore) in 2008, Dhoni has captained the side during all eight seasons.


Under his leadership, CSK went on to become the most successful team in the IPL.


Though it is hard to imagine Dhoni in any other IPL jersey than the yellow of Chennai, it will be interesting to see how Captain Cool adapts to his new team.