Asked about an IPL without Dhoni, Gavaskar said, "Yes, that is going to be very tough. However, MSD is only 34 years old and in a few years will be bidding good bye to international cricket. In any case, it will be tough to imagine an IPL without Dhoni."
Gavaskar also said that the players of CSK and Rajasthan Royals "must be feeling terrible" at the moment but this is a judgement that cannot be taken lightly as three of the most eminent former Chief Justices of India have deliberated upon.
However, the legendary opener said that since the next IPL is at least eight months away, it would not be difficult for the BCCI to find two new teams.
"There is at least eight months for the next IPL. I feel that is enough time for the BCCI to have two new teams. When IPL was floated, the idea was of an eight-team tournament and not a six-team tournament. It was decided to have an eight-team tournament which will be gradually increased to 10-teams. But I feel there is enough time to get two new teams.