45-year-old MS Dhoni will be available for CSK in IPL 2026, but there is doubt on playing all the matches. Sanju Samson has been included as backup wicketkeeper. The management is managing Dhoni’s workload due to his knee and back problems.
Chennai: IPL 2026 season is about to start and the biggest question in the world of cricket is whether MS Dhoni will play? The answer to this has now almost been found. Dhoni, who is turning 45 this year, will be available for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) this season, this has been confirmed by CSK management. But, there is still suspense over whether he will play all the matches for the team.
Sanju’s arrival and Dhoni’s new role
In this auction, CSK has included Malayalam player Sanju Samson in its team, which has brought a big change in the team’s planning. There are indications that Dhoni may not play all the league matches. “Dhoni has confirmed that he will be based in Chennai and will be available for this season,” a senior CSK official told PTI. But whether he will play all the matches or not, it cannot be said right now.
Backup ready for wicketkeeping
In the matches where Dhoni will be rested, Sanju Samson will handle the responsibility of wicketkeeping. Apart from Sanju, Chennai also has two more options. The second wicketkeeper-batsman in the team is Urvil Patel. Karthik Sharma is also a wicketkeeper, who has been bought by the team for Rs 14.20 crore. The team’s plan is to prepare Karthik as a finisher along with Shivam Dubey.
‘Thala’ shines in Chepauk
Due to the ‘Impact Player’ rule for the last two seasons, there was not much pressure on Dhoni to bat. He often came to the crease only in the last overs. Given his knee and back problems, the management is also focusing on reducing his travel and workload.
However, fans have full hope that Dhoni will definitely play in the home matches to be held at Chepauk Stadium in Chennai. The cricket lovers of Chennai are eagerly waiting to see their ‘Thala’ at their home ground.