MS Dhoni, fondly known as "Mahi," has always been one of the most loved figures in Indian cricket. From his calm leadership style to his unforgettable finishing abilities, Dhoni's presence on the field kept crowd noise levels high for nearly two decades.
Although he retired from international cricket in 2020, fans remain curious about his life after retirement including the pension he receives from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Dhoni's Retirement From International Cricket
MS Dhoni officially announced his retirement from international cricket on August 15, 2020. The decision marked the end of an era in Indian cricket. However, retirement from international matches did not mean Dhoni stepped away from the game entirely. He continued playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he remains closely associated with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
In IPL 2025, Dhoni played as an uncapped player and was signed by CSK for an annual contract worth ₹4 crore. Despite his age and limited appearances, his leadership and experience continued to be valuable for the team.
What Is BCCI's Pension Scheme?
The BCCI has a pension scheme in place for former Indian cricketers to support them after retirement. The pension amount depends on the level of cricket played and the number of matches a player has represented India in.
In 2022, the BCCI revised its pension policy, increasing the monthly pension amounts for former players. According to the updated structure:
- Former first-class male cricketers receive Rs 30,000 per month
- Former Test cricketers receive Rs 60,000 per month
- Players who have played 25 or more Test matches receive Rs 70,000 per month
For women cricketers, international players receive Rs 52,500 per month, while women first-class cricketers who retired before 2003 receive Rs 45,000 per month.
How Much Pension Does MS Dhoni Receive?
MS Dhoni has played 90 Test matches, 350 One Day Internationals (ODIs), and 98 T20 Internationals for India. Because he has played more than 25 Test matches, he falls under the highest pension bracket.
As per BCCI rules, Dhoni receives a monthly pension of Rs 70,000.
Dhoni's Career and Net Worth
While the pension amount may surprise some fans, it is only a small part of Dhoni's overall earnings. His net worth is estimated to be around Rs 1,000 crore. During his international career, Dhoni scored 17,266 runs, including 16 centuries and 108 half-centuries.
He made his international debut in 2004 and became India's captain in 2007. Under his leadership, India won the 2007 T20 World Cup, the 2011 ODI World Cup, and the 2013 Champions Trophy achievements that cemented his legacy as one of India's greatest captains.
Even after retirement, MS Dhoni continues to remain a powerful name in Indian cricket, admired for his achievements, humility, and lasting impact on the game.