IPL 2018: CSK look forward to retaining MS Dhoni and old staff

AFTER A TWO-YEAR BAN, Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals are looking forward to making a comeback in the IPL 2018. The two franchises were sentenced for a two-year ban by the Supreme Court in 2015.

The two teams were replaced by Gujarat Lions and Rising Pune Supergiants during IPL’s ninth and tenth edition. Following the conclusion of IPL-10, CSK made an announcement stating its return in the next edition. Their announcement also gave birth to speculations regarding former India skipper MS Dhoni’s future in the cash-rich league. 

Dhoni, who was stripped off his captaincy ahead of Pune’s latest campaign, had led CSK to two IPL and Champions Trophy T20 wins. 

And, as reported by TOI, CSK official has confirmed that the franchise is keen to retain the Ranchi-lad for the next season and also want the same core staff with Stephen Fleming as the coach.

"If we are given an option of retaining a player, it will definitely be Dhoni. We haven't yet discussed with Dhoni as his contract with Pune Supergiant ends later this year. However, we will speak to him in the future. For us, loyalty is very important. That's been our strength over the years. Though we haven't yet taken a final decision on the support staff, we are definitely thinking of retaining the old support staff."

The official further added that the franchise has started a campaign to unite it’s fan base.

"It's a new start. We don't want to go back. Our passion is cricket and we will stick to it. On Friday, we will have two activities on social media to mark the team's return. 'Super Moments' will revisit our title wins, Ashwin-Gayle saga and a few others. Then we will ask fans to send their Super Selfie with CSK stars and with yellow jersey." 

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