MS Dhoni, at 44, Will Reportedly Play IPL 2026 Too

CSK’s poor run has been attributed to several factors including the underperformance of experienced players, and the failure to adapt to the modern T20 strategies. The Men in Yellow were also dealt a severe blow at the initial phase of the season, after captain Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out of the tournament due to an elbow injury. It forced a 43-year-old Mahendra Singh Dhoni to return to the helm, as the CSK skipper.

Dhoni had to take up the captaincy duties once again, despite speculation that it could be his last IPL season. Critics have suggested the 43-year-old should consider hanging up his boots. Concerns have also been raised about Dhoni’s batting position, sometimes coming in as low as number 8 or 9, and the persistent knee injury that has raised doubts about his physical condition to continue playing at this level.

However, there is no official word from MS Dhoni that the 2025 season would be his last, with the former India captain expected to take a call on his future in the coming months. Insiders have also given no indication of his departure, strongly suggesting that he will continue playing in the 2026 season.

Dhoni’s role as a wicket-keeper and finisher is considered indispensable in such a transitional phase for the team. Furthermore, the current CSK team has several loose ends that need improvement. Dhoni’s continued presence seems crucial for nurturing the team’s young talents, such as Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis, Urvil Patel, Noor Ahmad and others, while signaling a shift in CSK’s traditional strategy of favoring experienced players.

However, MS Dhoni is unlikely to continue as captain next season, once Ruturaj Gaikwad returns to the side. While Dhoni is expected to stay with the team, Gaikwad would be reinstated as the skipper as the CSK management has a lot of faith in his leadership abilities.

MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings to be without crucial stars for remaining IPL matches

Despite Chennai Super Kings having already dropped out of the 2025 IPL play-offs race, the MS Dhoni-led side has reorganized itself for the remainder of the season, which begins after a week-long suspension. CSK will however, be without the services of four overseas players, for their last two matches. 

The English all-round pair of Jamie Overton and Sam Curran will be unavailable for the final leg of the season. Overton misses out because of national team commitments, while Curran has cited personal issues as a reason to opt out. CSK will also be without Rachin Ravindra and Nathan Ellis for its last two matches against Rajasthan Royals and Gujarat Titans, this season. 

Despite the player shortage, the Chennai Super Kings management has stated they will not be signing any new players. Meanwhile, the four other overseas players including Devon Conway, Dewald Brevis, Noor Ahmad and Matheesha Pathirana have rejoined the team.