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Months to go before the IPL 2027 season, and speculation over MS Dhoni's future in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has already gained pace. Ahead of the IPL 2027 players' auction, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan was asked whether the legendary keeper-batter will play a match for the team in the upcoming campaign.
Like the past few years, Viswanathan shared no direct reply on Dhoni's status as a player in the franchise. He claimed that they will know only after confirmation from Dhoni himself.
MS Dhoni did not feature in any of CSK's IPL 2026 fixtures
In IPL 2026, which was held earlier this year, MS Dhoni did not feature in a single match for CSK. Ahead of the season, the franchise informed that the former India and CSK captain would not take part in the first few matches of the season because of an injury.
Later, there was no official confirmation on whether he would play or not. Eventually, he did not feature in any of CSK's matches in 2026, leaving the fans only guessing about his future.
Why did MS Dhoni not play a single match for CSK in 2026?
It was believed that multiple injury concerns had barred MS Dhoni from taking the ground as a player. Over the years, running between the wickets with sheer pace was one of the key points in his career. It was earlier reported that he had an issue with his knees, which might have lowered his pace.
Dhoni was active during the team's practice sessions and was available behind the scenes as well to show his support to the rest of the squad. As he is a talismanic figure of Indian cricket, his presence also motivates the young cricketers as well.
It was also widely reported that Dhoni kept himself behind the curtain only to promote the fresh talents. He even distanced himself from the digits during the match days as well.
Kasi Viswanathan on MS Dhoni's future with CSK
When Kasi Viswanathan was asked about the former captain's status in the franchise, he pushed the ball to Dhoni's court, saying the question was worth asking the former national team cricketer directly as he had no clear view on that.
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"It's a question you need to ask him. I also have to ask him. He informs us of his decision when he arrives in Chennai. I have a feeling that the chances of him continuing to play for CSK are there. He is still a player, you know," Kasi Viswanathan said in Chennai to the local media.
Amid the speculation, the 45-year-old has been active behind the scenes in selecting the coaching members. The management has parted ways with their long-time aide, Stephen Fleming, as the head coach. With MS Dhoni's recommendation, the franchise has appointed Zaheer Khan as its next head coach, followed by the appointment of Mohit Sharma as the team's bowling coach ahead of the 2027 season. Some more changes in the coaching set-up are expected to come soon.
