Chennai Tremendous Kings (CSK) followers have each motive to be excited as franchise CEO Kasi Viswanath has formally confirmed that MS Dhoni will return for IPL 2026. Nevertheless, a significant query nonetheless looms in what position will the legendary captain characteristic for the five-time champions in what may very well be his remaining season?
Whereas hypothesis grows round Dhoni probably taking over the position of an ‘Influence Participant,’ former CSK batter S. Badrinath believes in any other case.
“MS Dhoni positively will not play as an impression participant,” Badrinath advised Star Sports activities. “If he performs, he’ll characteristic as a keeper. The principle motive for Dhoni enjoying is he must be on the market at Chepauk. As an impression participant, he may come out to bat solely within the remaining two overs and we do not know if he even will get to bat in that case. I do not suppose that is going to occur, that is my remark, understanding CSK and Dhoni.”
Badrinath Assured Dhoni Will Be On-Subject as Keeper
Badrinath additional said that Dhoni’s presence on the sphere stays essential for CSK’s morale and technique, even when he would not play each match of the season.
“He may not even play the complete season however he will probably be there as a wicketkeeper, unsure as captain. However he will certainly be on the sphere. It is not going to occur that Dhoni is off the sphere and leaves somebody like Sanju Samson to maintain wickets. He’ll take this determination and communicate to Sanju Samson,” he added.
Sanju Samson–Ravindra Jadeja Commerce Talks Intensify
Amid Dhoni’s return dialogue, the IPL 2026 commerce window is heating up with studies suggesting a possible blockbuster deal between CSK and Rajasthan Royals (RR). In response to a number of studies, Sanju Samson may very well be heading to Chennai Tremendous Kings, whereas Ravindra Jadeja could transfer to Rajasthan Royals.
Nevertheless, the negotiation has hit a snag as a result of involvement of a 3rd participant; England all-rounder Sam Curran, who’s rumored to be a part of the proposed swap deal. RR’s abroad quota is already full, forcing the franchise to launch one overseas participant to accommodate Curran.
Including to the complexity is an enormous monetary hole. RR’s remaining purse stands at simply ₹30 lakh, whereas Curran’s contract worth is ₹2.4 crore, as per his earlier signing with CSK. This monetary constraint, coupled with squad limitations, has reportedly slowed down the commerce progress.
Dhoni’s Last Chapter?
With Dhoni’s participation in IPL 2026 confirmed, followers eagerly await to see whether or not this season will mark the tip of an illustrious period. Badrinath’s feedback recommend that Dhoni’s farewell will not come from the dugout however from behind the stumps, the place he is dominated for over a decade.
Because the commerce talks proceed and CSK’s lineup evolves, one factor is for certain MS Dhoni will as soon as once more take middle stage at Chepauk, main from the entrance in spirit, if not as captain.