Will Dhoni play IPL 2026? That’s the burning question every Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fan asks these days. As MS Dhoni, the heart and soul of CSK, walked off the field after their final game in IPL 2025, the world of cricket once again found itself glued to a single man’s decision.
With five IPL titles as captain, an iconic legacy, and unwavering fan support, MS Dhoni’s IPL future is more than just a cricketing decision; it’s about emotions, identity, and legacy.
The 2025 season was turbulent for CSK. After a promising start, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad’s unfortunate injury mid-season saw MS Dhoni don the captain’s hat again. Yet, the return of the ‘Thala’ couldn’t stop the free fall.
CSK finished as wooden spooners for the first time in IPL history, winning only four matches. Amid the gloom, the spotlight remained fixed on one man, MS Dhoni. Let’s examine what he said, what experts predict, and what it truly means for CSK and Indian cricket fans.
Dhoni’s Final Words in IPL 2025: Hint or Goodbye?
After CSK’s final league match win over Gujarat Titans, MS Dhoni addressed the post-match presentation with a heartfelt note:
“There is no escaping the fact that I am in the last phase of my career. After this IPL gets over, I have to work hard for another 6–8 months to see if my body can take this pressure. I have another 4-5 months to decide.”
He didn’t confirm his retirement, and he didn’t deny it either. It was vintage Dhoni: calm, composed, and cryptic.
This statement has left fans divided. Some see it as a farewell speech in disguise. Others believe he’s gearing up for one final roar in IPL 2026. After all, the man has defied the odds time and again.
MS Dhoni Retirement 2025: A Decision Still Hanging
MS Dhoni had already passed on the captaincy baton to Ruturaj Gaikwad after winning IPL 2023. Many believed that was Dhoni’s curtain call, but the legend returned for IPL 2024 and 2025 in a supporting role.
In 2025, his batting form raised eyebrows, with 196 runs from 14 matches at a strike rate of 135. It’s not terrible, but it’s far from Dhoni, who used to finish games in his sleep. His inability to close out a few chases and slowing down while keeping sparked criticism. Still, Dhoni brushed off concerns with his trademark wit:
“If cricketers took retirement for poor form, most of them would retire at 22.”
That single quote summarizes MS Dhoni’s mindset, which is that retirement will be on his terms.
Expert Opinions on Dhoni IPL Future: Divided But Hopeful
Former India and CSK batter Robin Uthappa, speaking on JioStar, believes the spark is still alive:
“It all depends on his health and how he feels. The fire still burns to win championships. If he can bring his body back to the level he wants, he’ll play. If not, we’ll see a tweet or an Instagram post before the mini-auction.”
On the flip side, Aakash Chopra and Sanjay Bangar publicly urged Dhoni to retire during the season. They pointed out his declining form and lack of on-field impact.
Former Australian captain Michael Clarke took a contrasting stand on his podcast, boldly predicting: “Dhoni, Kohli, and Rohit will all play one more IPL season. You can’t write them off that easily.”
Meanwhile, Suresh Raina, the man closest to Dhoni on and off the field, was certain: “He’ll play one more season. Mark my words.”
But not all voices were in Dhoni’s corner. Sanjay Manjrekar stirred controversy, stating: “Dhoni’s presence in CSK is more for brand value than cricketing value. His keeping is still great, but the team doesn’t rely on him to bat anymore.”
Even former India cricketer Manoj Tiwary shared a pointed view on Cricbuzz: “He should’ve retired after winning the 2023 IPL. That would’ve been a perfect ending.”
CSK 2026: A New Era Under Ruturaj Gaikwad
Regardless of Dhoni’s decision, CSK have a new core in place. With Gaikwad expected to return as the full-time CSK 2026 captain, the team is slowly transitioning into a fresh era. The franchise has already identified key young talents like Dewald Brevis, Urvil Patel, Ayush Mhatre, Anshul Kamboj, and Khaleel Ahmed as the future building blocks.
Although the 2025 season may have ended in disappointment, the talent pool and structure remain strong. With two to three smart acquisitions and a fully fit Gaikwad, CSK looks poised to bounce back in IPL 2026.
Yet, the Dhoni-sized hole in the team, whether in the dressing room or out in the middle, will be impossible to fill.
The Emotional Connect: Fans Want One More Dance
Ask any CSK fan, Will Dhoni play IPL 2026? and they’ll tell you, They want that answer to be yes.
MS Dhoni once jokingly said: “Even when I’m in a wheelchair, these guys would pull me over.”
That one line reflects the deep bond between Dhoni and the fans. For most CSK supporters, Dhoni is not just a player; he is the identity of the franchise. Whether it’s his calm decision-making, his unbeatable leadership, or his understated humour, Dhoni is irreplaceable.
Even as he was recently inducted into the Hall of Fame, the 11th Indian to receive the honour, there was more talk about his future than his past. That tells you the legend is not done, at least not in the hearts of the fans.
Dhoni IPL Future: What’s Likely to Happen?
Based on his own statements, MS Dhoni will make a final decision 4–5 months after IPL 2025. This timeline aligns with pre-auction preparations for IPL 2026. If his body holds up after rehab and training, don’t be surprised if he returns, not necessarily as a captain or regular starter, but as a player-mentor, a guiding light from behind the stumps.
Given CSK’s young core, his experience could be more valuable than ever. Even if he bats at No. 8 or 9, Dhoni’s presence adds immeasurable confidence to the team.
That said, if his fitness doesn’t meet his high standards, expect a quiet retirement announcement on Instagram, just like in 2020.
So, will Dhoni play in IPL 2026?
As of now, the answer lies in his body and his will. MS Dhoni has never chased farewell tours or grand exits. He’s always been about the team, the process, and playing with dignity. While his form may have dipped, the flame hasn’t died.
Until he speaks again, the cricketing world will keep waiting, hoping, and believing that maybe, just maybe, there’s one last dance left in the legend.
Whether it’s the MS Dhoni retirement 2025, the Dhoni IPL future, or speculations about the Dhoni last IPL, one thing is certain, Thala wont leave quietly.
