MS Dhoni to Continue With CSK for IPL 2026, Confirms CEO Kasi Viswanathan

Chennai Super Kings fans can finally breathe easy. MS Dhoni will be back in yellow for the IPL 2026 season, confirmed CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan.

“MS has told us that he will be available for the next season,” Viswanathan told Cricbuzz, putting an end to weeks of speculation about Dhoni’s future after CSK’s poor 2025 campaign.

CSK finished at the bottom of the IPL 2025 points table, a rare low for one of the league’s most consistent teams. Dhoni had led the side in the absence of regular captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, who missed the season. Despite the disappointing finish, the 43-year-old icon has decided to return for one more year.

If Dhoni plays in 2026, it will be his 17th season for Chennai Super Kings and 19th overall in the IPL. He has already featured in 248 matches for CSK, scoring 4,865 runs and guiding the franchise to five IPL titles.

According to reports, Dhoni will also be part of key off-season planning meetings involving player retention and trades. The franchise is believed to be in active discussions with Rajasthan Royals about a possible trade for Sanju Samson, though no official confirmation has come yet.

Dhoni’s decision to continue is expected to boost team morale and reassure fans after a turbulent season. His leadership, experience, and calm influence remain central to CSK’s plans, especially as the franchise looks to rebuild around younger players.

The upcoming auction and retention window could see significant moves from CSK as they prepare for a fresh start under Dhoni’s guidance once again.