As the IPL 2026 season approaches, the focus has once again turned to MS Dhoni’s role for Chennai Super Kings (CSK). While fans and experts are debating whether the former captain will feature in every match this season, reports suggest that Dhoni may miss all the matches in the upcoming edition.
The Ranchi-born cricketer is ready to take part in another IPL season and has already started preparations. He led Chennai Super Kings in a few matches last season, but the five-time champions finished the campaign at the bottom of the points table. The 19th edition of IPL is expected to start from March 26.
CSK is unlikely to play MS Dhoni in every league match
According to a PTI report, MS Dhoni has informed Chennai Super Kings about his availability. He is expected to reach Chennai soon for the pre-season camp. However, there is no clarity on whether Dhoni will feature in every match during the season.
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“We can confirm that he is coming to Chennai and he has confirmed his availability for the season,” a top CSK source was quoted as saying by PTI on condition of anonymity.
The source said, “We cannot say at the moment whether he will play all the matches or not.”
Wicketkeeping expected from Sanju Samson if Dhoni is rested
After the inclusion of Sanju Samson in the team, CSK is unlikely to use MS Dhoni in every league match. Dhoni’s role with the bat has already been limited in recent seasons, with the impact player rule pushing him to play down the order.
The team has many wicketkeeping options. Samson can take over the gloves if needed, while Urvil Patel is also available. CSK have also spent Rs 14.20 crore on wicketkeeper-batsman Karthik Sharma, who is being groomed as a finisher along with Shivam Dubey.
Dhoni has managed knee and back problems, and with a busy schedule there may be demands for regular wicketkeeping. With more options in the team, CSK can reduce their workload and manage their fitness better during the season.
MS Dhoni has started training before IPL 2026
CSK retained MS Dhoni for ₹4 crore under the uncapped player category ahead of the IPL 2025 season. The franchise retained him again ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. He also took over the captaincy in 2025 when Ruturaj Gaikwad was not available.
The five-time champions had to struggle in IPL 2025. Despite Dhoni leading the team for most of the season, CSK finished bottom of the table with just four wins from 14 matches.
Dhoni failed to make an impact with the bat during the campaign. He scored 196 runs in 13 innings at an average of 24.50 and a strike rate of 135.17, with his best score being 30 not out. CSK will aim to leave the disappointing season behind and come back stronger.
