MS Dhoni has once again set the cricketing world abuzz with speculation of his retirement from IPL. The legendary former Indian skipper arrived in Chennai on Wednesday (February 26) ahead of IPL 2025, wearing what many believe to be a cryptic message about his future.

A beloved icon of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Dhoni’s bond with the franchise is nothing short of legendary. However, as the years pass, the possibility of the talismanic wicketkeeper-batter finally hanging up his boots and gloves seems more imminent than ever.

Over the years, Dhoni has faced constant speculation regarding his IPL future. Now, with a seemingly deliberate message, he has reignited the debate. CSK shared a picture of their ‘Thala’ arriving in Chennai for pre-season camps, wearing a t-shirt with what appeared to be an encoded message. Upon closer inspection, fans decoded the text as Morse code spelling out the words: “ONE LAST TIME.”

The subtle hint has sent shockwaves through the cricketing community, fueling speculation that IPL 2025 could indeed be Dhoni’s farewell season. Even Dhoni himself has acknowledged the growing physical challenges of staying match-ready. 

Reflecting on his fitness, he admitted earlier this year, he said, “I am not fit as I used to be, lot of efforts now needs to be there on what you are eating and I am doing very specific thing to be fit for cricket. We are not fast bowlers so our requirements are not that intense.”

“What really helps me is playing a lot of sports in between eating and going to the gym. So whenever I get time I like to play a lot of different sports, may be tennis, badminton, football, that keeps me engaged. That’s the best way of being in touch with fitness,” he had said.

Dhoni, who has retired from all forms of cricket except the IPL, stepped down as CSK captain ahead of the 2024 season, passing the baton to Ruturaj Gaikwad. However, CSK failed to qualify for the playoffs last year, finishing fifth on the points table.

As one of the most successful captains in IPL history, Dhoni has led CSK to five titles. With IPL 2025 set to kick off on March 22, when defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Eden Gardens, all eyes will be on ‘Thala’ and whether this season truly marks his last ride.