Will MS Dhoni Return to Chennai Super Kings for IPL 2026?
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Synopsis
The cricketing community buzzes with excitement as MS Dhoni is set to return for IPL 2026 with Chennai Super Kings. CEO Kasi Viswanathan confirms his involvement, raising hopes among fans. The seasoned cricketer aims to lead CSK back to glory after a challenging season, while potential trades loom in the background. Will Dhoni's legacy continue to shine?
Key Takeaways
- MS Dhoni confirmed to play for CSK in IPL 2026.
- Dhoni's leadership is crucial for CSK's recovery.
- He has won five IPL titles as captain.
- CSK finished last in the 2025 season.
- Potential trades are looming ahead of the retention deadline.
New Delhi, Nov 7 (NationPress) The iconic Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni is poised to participate in the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) with the five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK), as confirmed by franchise CEO Kasi Viswanathan on Friday.
Since the inception of the league in 2008, Dhoni has been a pivotal figure for CSK, reclaiming the captaincy in the middle of the 2025 IPL after the newly appointed captain, opener Ruturaj Gaikwad, was sidelined due to an elbow injury.
The 2025 season was disappointing for CSK, resulting in a last-place finish with only four victories out of 14 matches. “He is likely to play, that is the (current) status. We believe he will be part of this upcoming IPL,” Viswanathan stated to IANS on Friday.
Aside from the franchise’s suspension in 2016 and 2017, Dhoni has consistently been a key member of the CSK lineup. Participating in IPL 2026 will mark his 17th season with CSK and 19th overall in the league.
To date, Dhoni has played 248 matches for CSK, accumulating 4,865 runs and leading the team to five IPL titles in the years 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023. Overall, he has scored 5,439 runs in 278 matches, along with 158 catches and 47 stumpings.
With the IPL retention deadline on November 15, all eyes in the cricketing world are on potential high-profile trades. Since July, there have been speculative reports about wicketkeeper-batter and Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Sanju Samson possibly being traded to either CSK or Delhi Capitals (DC).
When directly questioned by IANS about the possibility of CSK engaging in a trade for Samson from RR, Viswanathan replied, “No, not likely, not likely.” Reports indicate that more definitive information on any trade developments could surface in the coming days.
Point of View
The return of MS Dhoni for IPL 2026 is met with enthusiasm and optimism. His leadership and experience are invaluable to Chennai Super Kings, especially after a challenging previous season. The cricketing community awaits any potential trades, particularly regarding Sanju Samson, with keen interest, showcasing the dynamic nature of team strategy in the IPL.
NationPress
08/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Will MS Dhoni play in IPL 2026?
Yes, franchise CEO Kasi Viswanathan confirmed that MS Dhoni is likely to participate in IPL 2026 for Chennai Super Kings.
How many IPL titles has MS Dhoni won?
MS Dhoni has led Chennai Super Kings to five IPL titles in the years 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023.
What was CSK's performance in the 2025 IPL season?
Chennai Super Kings finished at the bottom of the points table in the 2025 IPL season with only four wins out of 14 matches.
Is there any trade news about Sanju Samson?
Reports have emerged about Sanju Samson potentially being traded to CSK or Delhi Capitals, but CEO Kasi Viswanathan stated that a trade is unlikely.
How many matches has MS Dhoni played in IPL?
MS Dhoni has played a total of 278 matches in IPL, scoring 5,439 runs.
