The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is nearing its conclusion, with the final set for June 3. As the season winds down, speculation is growing about which veteran players might be playing their last IPL. Factors such as advancing age, declining form, fitness challenges, or changing career priorities are fueling these discussions.
Here are five players who may retire after IPL 2025.
MS Dhoni
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) icon MS Dhoni has been under the spotlight for his reduced batting impact and ongoing knee concerns. In IPL 2025, he has managed 196 runs across 14 matches, mostly coming in to bat down the order.
At 43, Dhoni has stated that he is open to playing another season, depending on how his body holds up. While his wicketkeeping remains top-notch and his captaincy sharp, he has mentioned taking 4-5 months post-season to assess his physical condition. The legendary skipper with five IPL titles may decide to call it a day, and fans are eagerly hoping for one last iconic six before he bows out.
Ravichandran Ashwin
Veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, regarded as one of India’s best, returned to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for ₹9.75 crore during the IPL 2025 mega auction. However, his performance this season has fallen short of expectations, with only 7 wickets in 9 matches and an economy rate of 9.12.
Now 38 and having retired from international cricket in 2024, Ashwin has occasionally been left out of CSK’s playing XI—an indication that IPL 2025 could mark the end of his IPL journey. Nevertheless, his impressive tally of 187 wickets in 221 IPL games stands as a strong reminder of his impact on the league.
Faf du Plessis
South African veteran Faf du Plessis, now 40, has been a consistent force in the IPL over the years, scoring 4,773 runs in 154 matches. Representing Delhi Capitals in the 2025 season, he has battled fitness issues, managing just 202 runs in 9 games, including two half-centuries. The former RCB captain, who once led his team to the playoffs, has hinted that he won’t turn out for another franchise—strongly suggesting that IPL 2025 might be his final season.
Moeen Ali
At 37, Moeen Ali was picked up by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for ₹2 crore in the 2025 mega auction but has featured in just six games, failing to make a mark with either bat or ball. Over his IPL career, he has scored 1,167 runs and taken 41 wickets in 73 matches, with memorable contributions for CSK and RCB. However, his reduced involvement with KKR and his retirement from international cricket in 2024 indicate that IPL 2025 might be his swansong.
Ishant Sharma
Ishant Sharma, representing Gujarat Titans in IPL 2025, has delivered a modest performance, claiming four wickets in seven matches at an economy rate of 11.18. The 36-year-old pacer’s effectiveness has declined, and with a new generation of fast bowlers coming up, Ishant might soon transition into a mentorship or coaching role, making this season potentially his last as an active player in the league.