CSK CEO Discusses MS Dhoni's Future After IPL 2026 Absence

MS Dhoni's Injury and Absence from IPL 2026

Kasi Viswanathan, the CEO of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), has addressed the future of former captain MS Dhoni in the Indian Premier League (IPL). This season, Dhoni was unable to participate in any matches due to injuries to his calf and thumb, which sidelined him for the entire campaign.

At 44 years old, this marked the first time in his 19-year IPL career that Dhoni did not play a single game. Initially, he was expected to miss just two weeks after injuring his calf before CSK's opening match against the Rajasthan Royals. Unfortunately, his condition deteriorated as the tournament progressed.

Dhoni was anticipated to return for CSK's last home game against the Sunrisers Hyderabad at Chepauk Stadium, but a thumb injury further postponed his comeback, ultimately excluding him from the entire tournament.

Update on MS Dhoni's Future from CSK CEO

With CSK already eliminated from the tournament, questions arise regarding Dhoni's participation in IPL 2027, especially given his absence throughout the 2026 season. Kasi Viswanathan provided an important update regarding the legendary cricketer's future.

In an interview with RevzSports, Viswanathan stated that the decision about Dhoni's continuation in cricket lies solely with him, emphasizing that the franchise will not pressure him into making a quick decision. He confirmed that CSK would welcome Dhoni back in any role he chooses.

"We have not had any discussions with MS yet because he makes his own decisions, and we respect that," Viswanathan remarked.

"We would love to have him as a permanent part of CSK, whether as a player, coach, or mentor. Ultimately, it depends on his choice. Every decision is his to make," he added.

Dhoni's Focus on Team Dynamics

Throughout the season, except for the match against SRH at Chepauk, Dhoni chose not to travel with the team to match venues. He aimed to minimize distractions and allow the focus to remain on the active players and the leadership of current captain Ruturaj Gaikwad.

Before CSK's final match against the Gujarat Titans, Dhoni returned to Ranchi to continue his recovery, leaving the team hotel on the day of the crucial encounter in Ahmedabad.

CSK's Disappointing Season Performance

Under Ruturaj Gaikwad's captaincy, CSK failed to qualify for the playoffs, finishing 8th on the points table with six wins out of 14 matches, totaling 12 points and a net run rate of -0.345.

Viswanathan expressed that it was a "great disappointment" to miss the playoffs for three consecutive seasons but defended the team's leadership transition.

"It is disappointing that we could not qualify for the playoffs. We have introduced many young players into the squad. We understand that they need time to adjust, and we must be patient," he stated.

"While we were pleased with our past successes, we must also accept our current challenges, identify our mistakes, and find ways to return to winning form," he concluded.

Historic Low for CSK

For the first time in IPL history, CSK has failed to qualify for the playoffs for three consecutive seasons, marking a significant low for the franchise. Once known for their playoff consistency, the team has struggled since the 2024 season, unable to secure a top-four finish in three straight campaigns.