Thala Returns AGAIN! MS Dhoni Set For IPL 2026 With CSK

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has confirmed that MS Dhoni will play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, putting an end to months of speculation about the legendary cricketer’s future. 

The former India captain, who will turn 45 before the next IPL, remains committed to donning the yellow jersey once again.

Speaking to his grandson Noah in Provoke Lifestyle magazine - as reported by the Times of India - Viswanathan said, “No, he is not retiring for this IPL.”

When pressed on when Dhoni might finally hang up his boots, the CSK chief smiled and replied, “I’ll check with him and let you know.”

Dhoni’s decision to continue comes after one of CSK’s most challenging seasons. The five-time champions endured their worst-ever IPL campaign earlier this year, finishing at the bottom of the points table for the first time in the franchise's history.

In IPL 2025, he scored 196 runs at an average of 24.50 and a strike rate of 135.17. After Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury ruled him out midway through the tournament, Dhoni stepped up to lead the side once more, a testament to his enduring commitment and influence in the CSK setup.

Over his storied IPL career, Dhoni has amassed 5,439 runs in 278 matches at an average of 38.30 and a strike rate of 137.45, with 24 half-centuries to his name. Under his captaincy, CSK have lifted the trophy five times - the joint-most in IPL history.

While a recurring knee injury has limited his batting time in recent seasons - often seeing him walk in only during the final overs - Dhoni’s wicketkeeping remains as sharp as ever. Despite growing calls from parts of the cricket fraternity for CSK to plan a future without him, it’s clear that Dhoni isn’t done just yet.