New Delhi: Chennai Super Kings have rejected reports claiming that former captain MS Dhoni sought a significant ownership stake in the IPL franchise, putting an end to growing speculation surrounding his reported interest in the team’s ownership structure.
A recent report had claimed that Dhoni initially sought a 25 percent stake in CSK before allegedly lowering his demand to 20 percent. According to the report, the franchise subsequently offered him a stake of around 5.5 percent.
CSK, however, has denied having any such discussions with the legendary cricketer. The franchise also indicated that it was unaware of Dhoni discussing the matter with former BCCI president and CSK shareholder N Srinivasan.
Dhoni remains closely associated with CSK and is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in the franchise’s history. Under his leadership, the team won five IPL titles, while his association with the franchise has helped build one of the league’s strongest sporting brands.
Reports have also suggested that Dhoni already owns more than one lakh shares in the company. Since CSK’s parent company is not publicly listed, its shares can be transferred through private, off market transactions. The reported holding represents only a small portion of the franchise’s overall share capital.
The speculation has also drawn scepticism from former India cricketer Aakash Chopra, who questioned the financial feasibility of Dhoni seeking a 25 percent stake. With the valuation of leading IPL franchises reaching billions of dollars, a quarter ownership in CSK would represent a massive financial commitment.
Chopra argued that such a transaction would involve an enormous valuation and described the reported figure as unrealistic.
For now, CSK has made its position clear. Despite Dhoni’s deep connection with the franchise and his existing shareholding, the team says there have been no discussions about him seeking a major ownership stake.
