The round of speculations and discussions continues regarding the IPL career of former Indian cricket team captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kasi Vishwanathan is hopeful that 45-year-old Dhoni can be seen returning to the field once again in the upcoming IPL 2027 season. However, despite being out of the field due to injuries during the entire IPL 2026 season, Dhoni has not yet made any final official announcement regarding his future. Former opener Suresh Raina, who is considered very close to the former Indian captain, also wishes that Dhoni should be seen playing in the next season.
Will Dhoni play one more season?
When asked about Dhoni’s future ahead of the upcoming IPL 2027 auction, Kasi Vishwanathan clarified that the decision to continue playing or retire will be entirely Dhoni’s own personal decision. He told that whenever Dhoni Chennai When he reaches, he informs the franchise management about his decision. CSK CEO said, ‘You should ask this question directly to him. In fact, I have yet to ask him this. when he Chennai When you come, let us know about your decision. I personally feel that there is every possibility of him continuing to play for CSK, as he is still an active player. Recall that Dhoni did not get the opportunity to play a single match in IPL 2026 due to injuries, yet he remained with the team and continued to guide and encourage the young players from the dugout during practice sessions.
Stephen Fleming told the importance of Dhoni in the team
Former CSK head coach Stephen Fleming had also advocated for Dhoni’s presence within the team last season. He had said that despite not being on the field, Dhoni’s vast experience is extremely invaluable for the team and the young players. According to Fleming, ‘MS stayed with the team for a long time this year, which proved to be very important for this franchise, many new players and the stability of the team. He is an integral part of this team.
Suresh Raina appeals to Dhoni to return
Former CSK explosive batsman Suresh Raina also wants Dhoni to take the field in IPL 2027. Chepauk Referring to his conversation with Dhoni during the team’s traditional ‘Lap of Honour’ at the stadium, Raina said that he had requested the former captain to return for the next season. Raina shared, ‘I told him that you have just given a missed call to IPL 2026, so it cannot be considered as your last season at all. You have to come back on the field next year.
According to Raina, on this Dhoni expressed slight concern about his physical fitness and said, ‘No friend, the body is a bit like that.’ However, Raina believes that Dhoni has not completely ruled out the possibility of a comeback yet. In Raina’s words, ‘It is completely his personal decision, but I think his attitude is positive. The team is also coming together brilliantly once again and their fans also want to see them play.
CSK’s command after Dhoni and preparation for the future
Keeping the future strategies in mind, CSK had included Sanju Samson in its team from Rajasthan Royals as Dhoni’s successor. Samson during IPL 2026 Chennai He played all 14 matches and scored a total of 477 runs, although his individual performances proved insufficient to rescue the team from a struggling season. Five-time IPL winners CSK were ranked eighth in the points table of 10 teams. Now all eyes are on what final decision Dhoni takes regarding his future, because the franchise has left this decision completely up to him.
