Overview:
At the same time, CSK’s squad composition suggests the franchise is planning for the future, with new additions like Sanju Samson. This suggests potential changes in key roles, including wicketkeeping.
Aakash Chopra, the former India cricketer, has strongly suggested that MS Dhoni should resume the captaincy for Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026. He commented at a time when there is growing speculation about Dhoni’s future with the team, sparking further discussions on the matter.
As Dhoni prepares for his 19th IPL season, he is expected to be part of the CSK squad, although his role might evolve. On JioHotstar, Chopra explained why he believes that, if Dhoni is in the playing XI, he should take on the leadership role again.
“If Dhoni is playing, he should be the captain. I’m certain that if he’s in the squad and keeping wicket for the full 20 overs, he’ll be involved in the game,” he said.
“Show me a better captain than Mahendra Singh Dhoni among the 22 players on that field. If you find one, I’ll accept I’m wrong. But if he’s there, why shouldn’t he be leading?
“For me, if CSK want to get the best out of Dhoni and turn things around, he has to be the captain,’ he added.
CSK are in a transition phase, with Ruturaj Gaikwad taking over as captain following Dhoni’s decision to step down ahead of the 2024 season.
In recent seasons, Dhoni’s responsibilities have changed. He has mainly served as a finisher, coming in during the final overs, and with the impact substitute rule, his role has become even more limited.
At the same time, CSK’s squad composition suggests the franchise is planning for the future, with new additions like Sanju Samson. This suggests potential changes in key roles, including wicketkeeping.
Even with these shifts, Dhoni’s influence is unquestionable. His wealth of experience remains vital, especially after CSK’s disappointing IPL 2025 campaign, where they finished last.
CSK’s CEO Kasi Viswanathan has confirmed that Dhoni will be available for the full 2026 season, though the team management will decide his specific role.
As CSK looks to rebuild under Gaikwad’s leadership, the question surrounding Dhoni’s role, whether as a mentor or once again as captain, continues to be a central topic.