With Chennai Super Kings’ IPL 2026 campaign over, the conversation has returned to MS Dhoni and whether he will play on. According to captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, the answer is not known even inside the squad.
No clarity yet
Speaking after the match, Gaikwad said he and everyone else would find out about Dhoni’s plans only next year. Dhoni will be 45 by the time IPL 2027 begins, so whether the wicketkeeper-batter comes back remains an open question.
A presence that is missed
Gaikwad stressed how much influence Dhoni still has, particularly in tense situations. He described his absence as a hard miss, saying Dhoni can unsettle opponents when he comes in during the late overs and can swing the momentum simply by staying at the crease.
Dhoni was unavailable for a large part of the season, and CSK found it hard to replace the calm finishing and leadership he has offered for over a decade. Gaikwad accepted that the team felt that gap at key moments, saying they missed him a lot, while adding that nobody can say what next season holds.
A disappointing return
CSK finished the tournament with only six wins from 14 matches. Gaikwad said he was pleased with the players in the group and with the experience the younger members gained this year, and the franchise will now regroup ahead of the next campaign.
