Will MS Dhoni play IPL 2026 for Chennai Super Kings? Here’s how he responded to a fan’s request.
MS Dhoni’s IPL Future: Will the CSK Legend Play One More Season?
With the next IPL season still seven months away, speculation mounts over whether MS Dhoni will don the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) jersey once again. Despite battling persistent knee pain over recent seasons, Dhoni has remained a key figure for the five-time champions, who unfortunately finished last in IPL 2025.
Recently, at a public event, the 2011 World Cup-winning captain addressed questions about his playing future. “I don’t know whether I’ll play or not. I have time to decide. I have some time until December, so I’ll take another couple of months, and then finally, I can make my decision,” Dhoni said.
A fan enthusiastically urged, “You have to play, sir,” to which Dhoni replied with his trademark wit, “Arre, ghutne me jo dard hota hai uska take care kaun karega (The pain I have in my knees, who will take care of that)?”
Fans shouting u have to play sir
— Yash MSdian ™️ 🦁 (@itzyash07) August 10, 2025
MS Dhoni : Who will take care of knee pain and smile 😃 pic.twitter.com/v1Msz9yval
Right after Chennai Super Kings’ triumphant IPL 2023 final win over Gujarat Titans, MS Dhoni underwent knee surgery in Mumbai. Throughout the season, the wicketkeeper-batter managed the injury carefully, choosing to complete the campaign before opting for surgery. This timing allowed him a longer rehabilitation window ahead of IPL 2024.
In the past two IPL seasons, Dhoni has been batting lower down the order, primarily due to reduced speed between the wickets—a consequence linked to his knee surgery and ongoing recovery. Despite these challenges, Dhoni remains a vital part of CSK’s strategy and leadership on and off the field.
Dhoni steps in as captain
During the IPL 2025 season, Ruturaj Gaikwad was sidelined midway due to a hairline fracture in his elbow, prompting MS Dhoni to step in as stand-in captain. Despite his leadership, the five-time champions struggled and finished last on the points table.
Adding to the team’s challenges, Ravichandran Ashwin has reportedly informed the franchise of his intention to leave and seek opportunities elsewhere. Ashwin had a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign, taking just seven wickets in nine matches.
