Everyone wants to know one thing before IPL 2026 begins next year. Will MS Dhoni play next season or hang up his boots finally? Chennai Super Kings hasn’t given any straight answers yet to fans.
Social media goes crazy daily with new rumours about Dhoni’s future. CSK posted a cheeky tweet recently asking fans to ignore speculation. Their message read “Nothing’s official till you see it here” clearly.
Knee Injury Remains Big Concern
Dhoni’s persistent knee problem has troubled him for multiple seasons now. The injury limited his movement behind stumps during recent IPL editions. Will MS Dhoni play next season depends heavily on his body holding up.
The legend himself said he’ll continue while his fitness permits. But his knee tells a different story after years of keeping wickets. CSK management worries about pushing their icon too hard at 44 years.
Dhoni looked slower during IPL 2025 compared to previous years, visibly. His batting position dropped to number 9, sparking criticism from experts. Yet fans refuse to accept that their hero might be done.
Auction Deadline Creates Pressure
The IPL 2026 auction will happen in December 2025, coming up soon. Franchises must finalise retention lists by the November 15 deadline, which is approaching fast. CSK faces tough calls about their legendary captain and wicketkeeper.
Reports suggest CSK releasing five players, including Rahul Tripathi, Devon Conway, Jammy Overton, Deepak Hooda and Vijay Shankar. These moves create budget space for potential replacements if needed desperately. Will MS Dhoni play next season becomes CSK’s biggest decision before the deadline.
Fans Demand His Return
Supporters flooded CSK’s social media, passionately demanding Dhoni’s return everywhere. Many claimed they’d skip watching IPL 2026 without him playing. Such fan pressure makes CSK’s decision even tougher than expected.
Dhoni’s marketability remains unmatched despite age and injury concerns currently. Stadiums fill up whenever he walks out to bat still. CSK knows losing him means losing millions of devoted followers.
The truth? Nobody knows yet, except maybe Dhoni himself currently. His body will decide everything ultimately when training camps begin.
