NEW DELHI: The familiar debate over MS Dhoni’s future has surfaced yet again as the Indian Premier League gears up for the 2026 season — will the legendary former skipper turn out in every game for Chennai Super Kings this year?
Dhoni, who is set to turn 45 later this year, will be part of CSK’s squad for the upcoming IPL, a senior franchise source confirmed.
That said, with CSK securing Sanju Samson in a high profile move, it appears improbable that the iconic former India captain will feature in all league fixtures.
"We can confirm this much that he is coming to Chennai and had confirmed his availability for the season," a top CSK source told PTI on condition of anonymity.
With the Impact Player rule continuing, Dhoni’s role with the bat has already become more situational over the last two seasons. He has largely been used for brief late order cameos rather than extended stints at the crease.
This year, CSK have multiple wicketkeeper batters in their ranks. Samson is expected to take up the gloves in matches where Dhoni does not play. Urvil Patel is also in the squad, along with Rs 14.20 crore signing Kartik Sharma, who is being groomed as a finisher alongside Shivam Dube.
Over time, Dhoni has managed knee and back concerns, and the rigours of wicketkeeping with tight turnarounds between matches can be demanding at this phase of his career.
What seems almost certain, however, is that Dhoni will turn out in most of CSK’s home matches in Chennai, where his entry into the Chepauk stadium continues to trigger deafening cheers, reflecting his lasting connection with the franchise and its loyal fan base.
(With PTI Inputs)
