As IPL 2025 wraps up in thrilling fashion, fans are already reflecting on the legacy of legendary cricketers who might have played their final IPL season. Over the years, the Indian Premier League has been a stage where stars were born and legacies were built. But with the rise of young talents and the evolving nature of T20 cricket, some seasoned campaigners may have featured in their final act in IPL 2025. Let’s take a look at five iconic players who are likely to have played their final IPL
1. MS Dhoni – A Farewell Fitting a Legend
MS Dhoni and the IPL have been synonymous since 2008, but IPL 2025 may have marked his final IPL appearance. The former Indian captain, known for his calm demeanor and iconic helicopter shots, continued to lead Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025 at the age of 43. Although his appearances were limited and questions around his fitness lingered, the mere presence of Dhoni lit up stadiums across India. His mentorship and tactical brilliance remained invaluable, but all signs now point to IPL 2025 being his final IPL. Fans across the country gave him standing ovations, fully aware that this season might be their last opportunity to witness ‘Captain Cool’ in action.
2. Dinesh Karthik – Time to Hang Up the Gloves?
Dinesh Karthik made a strong comeback in recent seasons, particularly with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. In IPL 2025, the veteran wicketkeeper-batsman took on the role of a finisher. He produced a few quick-fire cameos and brought experience to the RCB middle-order. However, at 39, age has started to reflect in his reflexes, and with the emergence of young, explosive wicketkeeper-batters in India, Karthik might decide that IPL 2025 was his swan song in the T20 carnival.
3. Amit Mishra – A Master of Spin Fading Out
Amit Mishra remains one of the most successful spinners in IPL history. Representing Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025, the 41-year-old leg-spinner showed glimpses of his magical touch but struggled to cement a regular place in the playing XI. His lack of agility in the field and the trend of teams favoring younger, athletic players could lead to this being his final IPL season. While his career might be nearing its conclusion, Mishra’s contributions to the IPL are undeniably significant.
4. Wriddhiman Saha – Gujarat’s Trusted Opener Reaching the Finish Line
Wriddhiman Saha has often been the unsung hero in his IPL franchises. In IPL 2025, the 40-year-old wicketkeeper played for Gujarat Titans and provided some solid starts at the top. However, his performance dipped mid-season, and his strike rate was under scrutiny. With aggressive, young openers making their mark, Saha may find it challenging to secure another IPL contract. IPL 2025 could very well be his final IPL season in the league.
5. Piyush Chawla – Fighting Time with Craft
Piyush Chawla was once again picked by Mumbai Indians for IPL 2025, thanks to his experience and match-winning spells in the past. While he had a couple of decent performances, his impact was inconsistent. With most teams focusing on younger mystery spinners and leg-spinners, Chawla’s time in the IPL seems to be coming to a close. The 36-year-old may have played his final IPL season despite his undeniable cricketing IQ and control with the ball.
Table: Players Likely to Have Played Their Final IPL Season in IPL 2025
| Player | Team (IPL 2025) | Age | IPL 2025 Performance | Likely Reason for Exit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MS Dhoni | Chennai Super Kings | 43 | Few appearances, mentoring role | Retirement & fitness issues |
| Dinesh Karthik | Royal Challengers | 39 | Inconsistent finishing roles | Age and rise of new talents |
| Amit Mishra | Lucknow Super Giants | 41 | Played sparingly | Fielding and team strategy |
| Wriddhiman Saha | Gujarat Titans | 40 | Moderate top-order runs | Form and competition |
| Piyush Chawla | Mumbai Indians | 36 | Mixed bowling impact | Team overhaul & youth focus |
IPL 2025: A Transition Point for the Tournament?
IPL 2025 could be remembered as the season where several legends took their final bow. While these players have contributed immensely to their franchises and the league as a whole, the nature of T20 cricket demands constant evolution. As young talents step up and new strategies take center stage, fans may not see these legends again in the IPL.
However, their legacies are deeply etched in IPL history. Whether it’s Dhoni’s iconic finishes, Karthik’s clutch knocks, or Mishra and Chawla’s game-changing spells, the memories will live on. If IPL 2025 was indeed their final IPL season, then it was a farewell that celebrated greatness.
