Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fans can finally breathe easy as MS Dhoni is not going anywhere yet. MS Dhoni, who has been the face of the CSK since IPL’s inception in 2008, is all set to continue his journey with the franchise in the tournament.
After weeks of rumors and endless speculation about the legendary cricketer’s retirement, the Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Viswanathan has now confirmed that Dhoni will stay with the team. He confirmed that Dhoni will be available for the IPL 2026.
MS Dhoni to continue with Chennai Super Kings for IPL 2026
Kasi Viswanathan was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz, “MS has told us that he will be available for the next season.”
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As the franchise gears up for a major rebuild after a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign, Dhoni’s decision to continue has been a massive boost for the team both on and off the field.
Chennai Super Kings had a disappointing 2025 season, finishing at the bottom of the points table, with MS Dhoni stepping in as captain in Ruturaj Gaikwad’s absence. Now, Dhoni will be aiming to finish on a high note next season.
If Dhoni plays in IPL 2026, it will mark his 17th season with CSK and 19th overall in the IPL, having been part of the league since 2008. Over his long career with the franchise, Dhoni has played 248 matches, scored 4,865 runs, and led the team to five IPL titles in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023.
MS Dhoni leads Chennai Super Kings’ preparations ahead of retention deadline
Meanwhile, MS Dhoni is actively involved in Chennai Super Kings’ planning for the upcoming IPL 2026. Ahead of the November 15 retention deadline, the former Indian captain is expected to meet with CEO Kasi Viswanathan, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, and coach Stephen Fleming to make crucial decisions about the squad.
It is being said that these discussions are likely to happen on November 10 and 11, as the IPL 2026 auction is scheduled for the mid-December window.
Earlier this year, MS Dhoni didn’t give a clear answer about whether he plans to retire from the IPL at a private event in Chennai. However, the legendary cricketer confirmed that Ruturaj Gaikwad will lead Chennai Super Kings in the next IPL season.
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Even with all the retirement rumors, Dhoni has been quite active in Chennai since the last IPL season ended. In August, he launched a new center for his brand, 7Padel, in Palavakkam, Chennai. The event was attended by Gaikwad and popular music composer Anirudh Ravichander.
CSK set to release underperforming players ahead of IPL 2026
Well, the CSK are likely to release a few underperforming players ahead of IPL 2026 to rebuild a stronger squad. Deepak Hooda struggled with just 31 runs in five innings, while Rahul Tripathi managed only 55 runs and was dropped from the playing eleven.
Devon Conway failed to meet expectations, scoring 156 runs in six innings, and Vijay Shankar, though decent with the bat, didn’t bowl for CSK and is all set to be released by the franchise. Releasing these players would free up budget and allow the franchise to bring in impact players at the auction.
#Dhoni #told
