In a rare and strategic move during IPL 2025, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) used the “retired out” rule by sending back opener Devon Conway and bringing in Ravindra Jadeja during a crucial moment in the match against Punjab Kings. This incident has once again brought the spotlight on a unique cricket rule that many fans still don’t fully understand: retired out.
Let’s break down what this rule actually means and why more IPL teams are starting to use it.
🏏 What Does “Retired Out” Mean in Cricket?
In simple terms, when a batter leaves the field without being injured and without the umpire’s approval, he is marked as “retired out”. Unlike being dismissed by a bowler (caught, bowled, LBW, etc.), retired out is a tactical decision made by the team.
- The player cannot come back to bat later.
- The wicket does not go to the bowler’s stats.
- The player’s name in the scorecard will read “retired out”.
- This rule is legal under the Laws of Cricket and applies to IPL as well.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) allows teams to use this as a strategy if they feel another batter would be more useful in the current match situation.
💡 Why Did CSK Retire Out Devon Conway?
In the 17th over of the match between Chennai Super Kings and Punjab Kings, Conway was batting steadily but slowly. After the fifth ball, he suddenly walked off, and Ravindra Jadeja walked in. It looked like a planned move by CSK captain MS Dhoni to bring in a more aggressive finisher during the final overs.
Jadeja and Dhoni have been a powerful finishing pair for CSK in the past, so the idea might have been to score quick runs in the death overs. Unfortunately, the plan didn’t work this time. Punjab still managed to win the match, but the move triggered discussion among cricket fans and experts.
📊 How Often Has “Retired Out” Been Used in IPL?
While common in local matches or T20 leagues, “retired out” is still a rare sight in international or IPL-level games. However, this trend is slowly changing. Here are some past examples in IPL:
- Ravichandran Ashwin – Became the first player in IPL history to be retired out (2022, Rajasthan Royals vs Lucknow Super Giants).
- Atharva Taide – Retired out in IPL 2023 against Delhi Capitals.
- Sai Sudharsan – Subbed out for Gujarat Titans against Mumbai Indians.
- Tilak Varma – Was retired out by Mumbai Indians in the current 2025 season.
- Devon Conway – Most recent example, CSK vs Punjab Kings 2025.
🤔 Why Teams Are Using Retired Out Rule More Often
Cricket, especially T20 format, has become more about tactics and match-ups. Teams now use data and analysis to decide:
- Which batter can hit specific bowlers better.
- Who plays better in death overs.
- When to bring in power-hitters for max impact.
So, if a batter is struggling or unable to accelerate, they may be retired out and replaced with someone who suits the moment better.
For example:
- If the team needs big hits in the last 3 overs, they may send in someone like Ravindra Jadeja or MS Dhoni.
- If the current batter is playing slowly, it can cost the team in such a fast-paced game.
🧠 Is It Fair to Use Retired Out?
Some fans question whether it’s fair or against the spirit of the game. But since it’s fully allowed under ICC rules, teams are using it just like other strategies — such as impact players or match-ups.
Cricket is changing, and the retired out rule is just another tool that smart captains like Dhoni are using. While it may not always lead to victory, it opens up new tactical possibilities and makes the game even more exciting.
