IPL 2024

Cricket Predictions 2024: Top 5 Cricketers Likely to Retire This Year

As the calendar flips to a new year, the cricketing world buzzes with the anticipation of IPL 2024. This 17th edition promises to be a tantalizing blend of familiar excitement and poignant farewells. While fans and pundits gear up for the spectacle, a touch of bittersweet melancholy hangs in the air.

For some veteran players, this season might be their swan song, as the twilight of their careers casts long shadows on their diminishing skills. Age catches up with even the best in the business, and whispers of retirement hang in the air.

Here’s a look at 5 players who might retire after IPL 2024:

MS Dhoni

Whispers of retirement have shadowed MS Dhoni for several seasons, yet he consistently defies those doubts, returning to the Chennai Super Kings’ yellow jersey to the ecstatic cheers of his fans. But time, ever the tide, may finally be reaching its mark. Following last year’s IPL triumph, Dhoni said that he would play one more season as a mark of gratitude for his supporters. Whether this season truly is his swansong remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: his impact on the game and the hearts of fans is undeniable.

His persistent knee troubles, evident in recent footage, add weight to speculation of this being his swan song. Though imagining the vibrant IPL landscape without Dhoni’s presence is challenging, his enduring legacy as a cricketing giant will remain long after he hangs up his bat. With a renewed fire in his eyes, one thing is certain: Dhoni will strive to leave the stage on a high note, aiming to add another IPL title to his glittering trophy cabinet in 2024.

Amit Mishra

Amit Mishra, the 41-year-old wily leg-spinner who has enthralled cricket fans for over a decade, could be facing his final curtain call in the Indian Premier League this year. While Mishra defied doubters last season with a brilliant showing for the Lucknow Super Giants, he will have to replicate the performance because, at his age, it doesn’t take too much time for criticism to pop up.

Furthermore, Mishra’s athleticism and stamina are bound to be under scrutiny. The gruelling demands of the IPL, with back-to-back matches and intense pressure, could take a toll on his ageing body. LSG also have some other spinners in their ranks and so, if he doesn’t have a good season, they will not hesitate to look towards the youngsters who will be able to serve longer than Mishra.

Dinesh Karthik

Dinesh Karthik, the man whose finishing prowess earned him an India call-up in 2022, faces a pivotal IPL season in 2024. He endured a poor run in 2023 as he was even dropped at the backend of the season. With a below-par average of 11.67 and a strike rate struggling to cross 135, his bat remained silent in RCB’s pursuit of a maiden title. In fact, RCB’s recent decision to retain him was met with surprise by plenty of fans.

At 38, whispers of retirement are circling the ever-enthusiastic wicket-keeper batter, making this year potentially his last dance on the T20 extravaganza’s grand stage. Questions are also asked about his shortage of match practice owing to broadcasting roles. If Karthik has a good season, he could be around for another year or two but if he struggles, there may not be more opportunities left.

Piyush Chawla

Piyush Chawla, the veteran leg-spinner who is one of the highest wicket-takers in the IPL, could be calling time on his T20 career after the upcoming season. At 35, Chawla is nearing the twilight of his playing days, and with the emergence of young spin talent, his place in the Mumbai Indians lineup is no longer guaranteed despite his sensational returns last year.

Before last year’s IPL, Chawla’s form had taken a hit and he was most of the teams did not show any interest in his services. Another dip could lead to a similar situation. Age and fitness are not on his side and there are quite a few local spinners in the circuit which does not help Chawla’s cause. Furthermore, Chawla has expressed his interest in pursuing a career in commentary after retirement. He has already honed his skills as a commentator in international cricket and who knows, he might head to the box for good.

Faf du Plessis

Faf du Plessis, the veteran South African batsman, has been a mainstay in the Indian Premier League for over a decade. But with age catching up, 2024 could be his swansong. Du Plessis, who will turn 40 in July, has shown no signs of decline in recent seasons. He was in great form last season as he and Kohli carried RCB’s batting line-up along with Glenn Maxell. With his experience and leadership skills, he is a valuable asset to RCB.

However, a poor run in 2024 could prompt critics to question his abilities which is never good, especially when age is not on one’s side. There could also be a possibility of du Plessis opting to go out on a high as some players tend to do. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to continue will rest with Faf himself. But whatever he decides, Faf du Plessis will leave behind a rich legacy in the IPL. He has been a true entertainer and a role model for aspiring cricketers around the world. His contribution to the league will be remembered for many years to come.