MS Dhoni Likely to Play IPL 2026 Following Srinivasan’s CSK Chairmanship

Chennai Super Kings’ veteran MS Dhoni is almost certain to play in IPL 2026, and his decision might be influenced by N. Srinivasan. The former BCCI president and ICC chairman was recently appointed as the chairman of CSK. Dhoni, who is nearing the end of his IPL career, was earlier expected to decide on his future only a few months before the tournament in 2026.

Dhoni May Play One More IPL Season

According to RevSportz, sources close to CSK say MS Dhoni is likely to play at least one more season. The report suggests this decision may be linked to N Srinivasan taking over as CSK chairman before IPL 2026. Dhoni is said to have a close, almost fatherly bond with Srinivasan, which could be a reason he’s willing to stay for another year.

The report claims that a wheelchair-bound Srinivasan will have the final word on all cricketing matters related to CSK and will attend the board meetings. His daughter, Roopa Gurunath, is expected to have a more hands-on role.

Last week, reports suggested that MS Dhoni might retire after playing one final season in IPL 2026. Dhoni, who stepped in as CSK captain in IPL 2025 when Ruturaj Gaikwad was unavailable, has openly mentioned that he has knee problems.

Back in August, he said he had until December to decide whether he would play next year. During an event, he told the host that he needed a couple more months to make up his mind. When a fan in the audience asked him to play in IPL 2026, Dhoni replied with his usual wit, asking who would look after his knees. “He is going to play for one more year for sure before hanging his boots,” a source told Telecom Asia Sport.

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