“MS Dhoni Likely To Feature In IPL 2026″- CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan Confirms

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan expressed confidence that MS Dhoni will continue to feature for the franchise in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The 44-year-old legend has been a vital part of CSK since the tournament’s debut in 2008.

Under his captaincy, the team secured five IPL titles — in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023 — along with two Champions League T20 trophies in 2010 and 2014. If Dhoni participates in IPL 2026, it will mark his 17th season with Chennai Super Kings and 19th in the league overall.

The only break in his CSK journey came during the franchise’s suspension, when he represented the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant for two seasons. In an interview with India Today, Viswanathan said:

“We are very confident that he (Mahi) will be available and play for us.”

MS Dhoni Remains A Crucial Pillar For Chennai Super Kings

The announcement comes at a crucial juncture for Chennai Super Kings, following a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign where the team finished last in the standings with just four victories from 14 matches. During the season, MS Dhoni reassumed the captaincy after Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out due to injury.

Despite the team’s struggles, Dhoni made history by becoming the oldest player to win the Player of the Match award in IPL history, thanks to his match-winning knock against the Lucknow Super Giants. His decision to extend his career for another season now offers the franchise much-needed stability and a sense of renewed optimism.

However, Dhoni’s fitness and workload will remain critical factors. Having retired from international cricket in 2020, the 44-year-old continues to push his limits in the demanding IPL environment. CSK’s management is expected to handle his fitness carefully, ensuring he remains effective both as a leader and as a player.

Dhoni has scored 5,439 runs in 278 IPL matches at an average of 38.30 and a strike rate of 137.45, with 24 fifties. In 2025, he added 161 runs and 13 sixes, proving his finishing touch remains. As IPL’s most successful captain, he holds 136 wins from 235 games — a record that cements his unmatched legacy.