Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fans have every factor to be delighted as franchise CEO Kasi Viswanath has actually formally verified that MS Dhoni will return for IPL 2026. A significant concern still looms in what function will the famous captain function for the five-time champs in what could be his last season?
While speculation grows around Dhoni perhaps using up the function of an ‘Impact Player,’ previous CSK batter S. Badrinath thinks otherwise.
“MS Dhoni certainly will not play as an effect gamer,” Badrinath informed Star Sports. “If he plays, he will include as a keeper. The primary factor for Dhoni playing is he requires to be out there at Chepauk. As an effect gamer, he may come out to bat just in the last 2 overs and we do not understand if he even gets to bat because case. I do not believe that’s going to take place, that’s my observation, understanding CSK and Dhoni.”
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Badrinath Confident Dhoni Will Be On-Field as Keeper
Badrinath even more specified that Dhoni’s existence on the field stays essential for CSK’s spirits and method, even if he does not play every match of the season.
“He may not even play the complete season however he will exist as a wicketkeeper, not exactly sure as captain. He will absolutely be on the field. It will not occur that Dhoni is off the field and leaves somebody like Sanju Samson to keep wickets. He will take this choice and speak with Sanju Samson,” he included.
Sanju Samson– Ravindra Jadeja Trade Talks Intensify
In the middle of Dhoni’s return conversation, the IPL 2026 trade window is warming up with reports recommending a possible hit offer in between CSK and Rajasthan Royals (RR). According to numerous reports, Sanju Samson might be heading to Chennai Super Kings, while Ravindra Jadeja might transfer to Rajasthan Royals.
The settlement has actually struck a snag due to the participation of a 3rd gamer ; England all-rounder Sam Curran, who is reported to be part of the proposed swap offer. RR’s abroad quota is currently complete, requiring the franchise to launch one foreign gamer to accommodate Curran.
Contributing to the intricacy is an enormous monetary space. RR’s staying bag stands at simply 30 lakh, whereas Curran’s agreement worth is 2.4 crore, based on his previous finalizing with CSK. This monetary restriction, combined with team restrictions, has actually apparently decreased the trade development.
Dhoni’s Final Chapter?
With Dhoni’s involvement in IPL 2026 validated, fans excitedly wait for to see whether this season will mark completion of a remarkable age. Badrinath’s remarks recommend that Dhoni’s goodbye will not originate from the dugout however from behind the stumps, where he’s ruled for over a years.
As the trade talks continue and CSK’s lineup progresses, something is particular MS Dhoni will when again take spotlight at Chepauk, leading from the front in spirit, if not as captain.