MS Dhoni drops big hint on his IPL future with CSK, decision expected before December
New Delhi: Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain has dropped a clear hint regarding his future in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Dhoni said he will undergo a fitness assessment and will take a call by December on whether he can continue playing for CSK next season.
Dhoni missed the entire IPL 2026 earlier this year due to multiple injuries. Ever since the conclusion of the season, there have been rumours about the former CSK captain’s future in the league. Dhoni addressed the question during a recent event in Bengaluru.
“Doc, I will have to go through the test. You will have to give me the report, and then before December, I will have to see, you know, how strong I am to maybe play one more season,” said Dhoni, as quoted by ANI.
The former CSK captain put the onus on his doctors, stating that they are the ones who will conduct the tests to determine whether the 45-year-old can continue playing in the IPL for another season.
“And if I am not, then, you know, you will have to make sure that you do everything right with me and make sure that this old vintage vehicle is running well on the road. So all the pressure is on them,” Dhoni added.
At 45, Dhoni has had a limited playing role as a wicket-keeper batter but continues to be a vital cog in the CSK line-up. He avoided travelling to venues on match days last season to ensure the spotlight was always on the team in his absence. It remains to be seen if the former CSK captain will be able to make it to another season.
CSK want MS Dhoni to continue
Meanwhile, CSK management remains hopeful of Dhoni playing for the franchise in IPL 2027. CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan recently said that the decision about his future rests in Dhoni’s hands, but admitted that the 45-year-old might return for another season.
“It’s a question you need to ask him. I also have to ask him. He informs us of his decision when he arrives in Chennai. I have a feeling that the chances of him continuing to play for CSK are there. He is still a player, you know,” Kasi Viswanathan said.
Ruturaj Gaikwad-led CSK missed out on the playoffs for the third season in a row in IPL 2026. The Franchise sacked head coach Stephen Fleming after the disappointing season and are currently in the process of rebuilding the support staff ahead of the IPL 2027 auction.