With IPL franchises like Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rajasthan Royals commanding premium valuations, several owners are now exploring the possibility
of offloading stakes. Speculation is rife that the Chennai Super Kings could be next in line. While sources close to CSK have denied any such development, strong indications suggest that a stake sale could be on the horizon sooner rather than later. "Something is cooking for sure," a source added.
It is understood that several major business houses are already exploring the possibility, with MS Dhoni still at the centre of affairs. Dhoni, it is learnt, has been unhappy with certain internal decisions taken by the CSK management without his consultation, most notably the trade involving Ravindra Jadeja to the Rajasthan Royals alongside Sanju Samson.
Since then, Dhoni has been seen training in the nets with the CSK squad but has missed two matches-one in Guwahati and the other in Chennai. The official reason cited for his absence is a minor calf muscle-related issue, from which he is said to be recovering quickly and could return within a few days.
However, sources indicate that Dhoni is not entirely pleased with how things have unfolded within the franchise over the past few months and is keen to address these concerns before taking the field again.
The speculation has only intensified given that Dhoni, despite being in Chennai, did not turn up at the ground for CSK's recent clash against Punjab Kings - a match the team lost despite posting over 200 runs. He was expected to join the squad in the following session, but his absence during the game has added weight to the growing belief that there is more to the situation than meets the eye.
