Will MS Dhoni play IPL 2026? CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan gives big update on Thala’s participation

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan expressed confidence that MS Dhoni will participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. The 44-year-old legend has been a pivotal figure for CSK since the league started in 2008. Under his guidance, CSK clinched five IPL titles in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021 and 2023, as well as two Champions League T20 titles in 2010 and 2014.

If he plays in the 2026 season, it will mark Dhoni’s 17th year with the Chennai Super Kings and his 19th overall in the IPL. The only exception was the two seasons he spent with the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant while he was suspended along with CSK’s Rajasthan Royals.

The CEO confirmed this information to Cricbuzz and said, “MS has told us that he will be available for next season,” the website reported.

According to the website, this announcement coincides with renewed trade discussions regarding Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson potentially joining the Chennai Super Kings. Speculations had arisen before, but did not materialize. However, trade talks resumed before the November 15 deadline. While Ruturaj Gaikwad currently holds the post, it remains unclear whether Samson will take over the captaincy. In return for Samson, RR are expected to demand a senior player from CSK.

CSK is scheduled to hold a meeting on November 10 and 11 to determine the strategy for the next season. While important names including CEO, Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and coach Stephen Fleming are expected to attend, Dhoni is also expected to attend.

As for Dhoni, the iconic wicketkeeper had led the Super Kings for half of the previous season after Gaikwad was sidelined due to injury. Dhoni played 248 matches for CSK and also played in 30 matches for Rising Pune Supergiant in 2016 and 2017.

Focusing on Dhoni, the iconic wicketkeeper took charge of the Super Kings in the second half of the previous season after Gaikwad left the field due to injury. Dhoni played 248 matches for CSK. He also played in 30 matches for Rising Pune Supergiant in 2016 and 2017.

Dhoni’s prospects in the lucrative Indian league have been a subject of considerable speculation, as has been the case in recent years. This latest update may finally put to rest those speculations for the upcoming season.

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