Former India batter, Subramaniam Badrinath, who played for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League for a significant period under MS Dhoni, opened the floodgates for a major debate when he questioned the former CSK captain’s place in the side, given his limitations as a batter and a wicket-keeper at the age of 44, adding that it may well be fun for everyone to watch the CSK legend come out to bat at the fag end of the innings, and hit those sixes, but purely from a cricketing point of view, one needs to understand whether he can play the entire season, or does he have a role to play as an Impact player.
Dhoni, in the last couple of seasons, has been battling with a knee issue and has only come out to bat at No.7, at times even lower than that, mostly in the 18th or 19th over of the innings. While his wicket-keeping abilities still remain as sharp as ever, but whether or not he can last the entire season for CSK remains to be seen. His average and strike rate in the last couple of seasons have also taken a beating.
“It may be exciting to see MS Dhoni come into bat in the 18th or 19th over to smash sixes. But from a cricketing point of view, does he still have the ability to play every match? Or should he play as an Impact player? It is worth considering for CSK since they have so many batters and wicketkeepers. Also, as important as his presence in the field may be, will give his inputs to Ruturaj Gaikwad? Is he the type of character? Or will Ruturaj Gaikwad ask and be open to Dhoni’s suggestions?” Badrinath said on his YouTube channel.
Having shared the dressing room with Dhoni, Badrinath understands that Dhoni is a man of few words, and with Sanju Samson in the side as well, who has also captained the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, CSK might already have planned the transition. With Dhoni available for selection, it is highly unlikely that he will not make it to the team, but whether or not he brings the same value to the side is something, Badrinath reckons, is worth pondering upon.
“Dhoni is a man of few words. Also, let’s not forget is a senior pro and has captained RR. So he will also have presence. Especially considering last season, it is worth pondering if MS Dhoni still has huge value. But once Dhoni has given his availability for CSK, I think he must be on the field,” he added.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are slated to play their first game of IPL 2026 against Rajasthan Royals on Monday, April 30, 2026, at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati, followed by their first home game of the season at the MA. Chidambaram Stadium, on Friday, April 3, 2026. Their next two games are against Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Delhi Capitals.