MS Dhoni and CSK are almost inseparable in Indian cricket. As the IPL 2025 season nears its end, fans are eagerly wondering if 'Thala' MS Dhoni will grace the field in IPL 2026.
Sports News: The 18th season of IPL 2025, after a temporary suspension due to India-Pakistan tensions, has seen a disappointing performance from five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The team has managed only 3 wins out of 12 matches, suffering 6 losses.
This performance has eliminated CSK from the playoffs. They have only two matches remaining in the league, seen as a final attempt to salvage some pride.
IPL 2025: A Disappointing Season for CSK
The 18th edition of the IPL has been fraught with controversy and volatility. The tournament's suspension due to India-Pakistan tensions, followed by CSK's underwhelming performance, has left fans disheartened. The team has won only 3 out of 12 matches and is out of the playoff race.
Following Ruturaj Gaikwad's injury, Dhoni reassumed the captaincy, but his magic couldn't save the team this time. Nevertheless, Dhoni's presence brings a unique energy to the field. His appearances at the crease are met with thunderous applause – a stadium-wide chant of "Dhoni! Dhoni!"
Will Dhoni Play in IPL 2026?
According to a report by TOI (Times of India), Dhoni hasn't informed the franchise management that this will be his last season. Furthermore, the report suggests Dhoni isn't considering retirement at this moment. He has reportedly told the team management that he will reconsider in a few months, based on his fitness and mental state.
However, sources suggest that even if Dhoni plays in IPL 2026, he might not captain the team. The captaincy could be handed back to Ruturaj Gaikwad upon his recovery from injury.
A Look at Dhoni's IPL Career
Dhoni is one of the most experienced players in IPL history. In 276 matches, across 241 innings, he has scored 5423 runs at an average of 38.46 and a strike rate of 137.63, including 24 half-centuries. Even in IPL 2025, he scored 180 runs at a strike rate of 140, proving his enduring prowess.
News of Dhoni potentially playing in IPL 2026 has elicited jubilant reactions from his supporters on social media. The hashtag #Dhoni2026 trended on Twitter, with many fans echoing the sentiment: "As long as the sun and moon exist, Dhoni's name will endure."
