Some players in India has become the face of the sport. MSD is the example of it. In past few years, we have seen an amazing high graph in viewership ratings and fans presence in the ground. Irrespective of opposition, in ground we have seen the yellow sea of fans cheering for MSD. People switch on their television to watch MS Dhoni bat and captain their team.
With the mobile app showing live viewers graph is the prime example of it. Where people have witnessed the surge on viewership whenever MS comes to play.
But their is a question in many peoples mind, will MS Dhoni play in IPL 2026? Here is the great news for all cricket fans. MS Dhoni will play in IPL 2026. This is now confirmed by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan. The big question about Dhoni’s future has finally been answered. To know more about further updates on IPL auction, teams, players, squads, and much more on 96in app and website.
Official Confirmation from CSK
CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan told Cricbuzz that MS Dhoni will be available for IPL 2026. He said, “MS has told us that he will be available for the next season”. This ends all the rumors about Dhoni’s retirement.
The 44-year-old cricket legend will play his 17th season with CSK and his 19th season overall in the IPL. Dhoni has been with CSK since 2008, except for two years when the team was suspended.
MS Dhoni IPL Future and Training
Many people wondered about MS Dhoni’s IPL future after a bad season in 2025. CSK finished at the bottom of the points table for the first time ever. They won only four games out of 14 matches.
But Dhoni is working very hard to bounce back. He has been training at the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) Stadium in Ranchi for the last two months. A JSCA official shared details about his daily routine.
Dhoni arrives at the stadium at 1:30 pm every day. He spends one hour in the gym, then does power-hitting practice for two hours. When the center wicket is free, he does match simulations. He ends his training with 30 minutes of swimming before leaving at 6 pm.
Chennai Super Kings 2026 Squad Changes
CSK has made big changes for IPL 2026. The team traded Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to Rajasthan Royals. In return, they got Sanju Samson, a talented wicketkeeper-batsman.
This is a very important trade for Chennai Super Kings 2026. Samson is seen as a future replacement for Dhoni. However, Ruturaj Gaikwad will continue as the official captain.
Dhoni CSK Captaincy and Leadership Role
Even though Ruturaj Gaikwad is the captain on paper, MS Dhoni remains the team’s main leader. Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif said that Dhoni’s leadership is still very important.
Dhoni has led CSK to five IPL titles in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023. He is the most successful captain in IPL history with 136 wins.
MS Dhoni Latest Update and Career Stats
At 44 years old, MS Dhoni will be one of the oldest players in IPL 2026.
- He retired from international cricket in 2020 but continues to play in the IPL.
- Dhoni has played 248 matches for CSK and scored 4,865 runs.
- In his entire IPL career, he has 5,439 runs with a strike rate of 137.45.
- He has also hit 264 sixes in the tournament.
MS Dhoni Retirement 2026 Speculation
Many people thought MS Dhoni might announce his MS Dhoni retirement 2026 plans. But Dhoni himself said at an event in Chennai that he will always be connected to CSK.
“Me and CSK, we are together. You know even for the next 15-20 years,” Dhoni said with a smile. He added, “I hope they don’t think I’ll be playing for another 15-20 years”.
This means Dhoni might play for more seasons or stay with CSK in a different role after retirement. He said, “I will always be sitting in a yellow jersey”.
IPL 2026 Expectations
CSK fans are very excited about MS Dhoni’s return for IPL 2026. The team is hoping to win their sixth IPL title after a disappointing IPL 2025 season for the team.
With Sanju Samson joining the squad, CSK now has two strong wicketkeepers. This could help reduce the workload on Dhoni. The team is also planning to buy new players at the IPL mini-auction in December.
Dhoni’s hard work and training show that he is serious about making a strong comeback. His experience and leadership will be very important for the young CSK players. You can visit 96.com to know more about the players, stats, analysis, IPL auction, players to target in auction, squads, and lot more.
