Concerns Raised Over MS Dhoni's Future with Chennai Super Kings

Badrinath Questions CSK's Management Decisions

Former Indian cricketer S Badrinath has expressed his concerns regarding the Chennai Super Kings' uncertainty about MS Dhoni's participation in the 2026 Indian Premier League. Dhoni has been sidelined this season due to a calf strain and a thumb injury, missing all matches thus far. Despite ongoing speculation about his fitness, he was only seen at CSK's recent home match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, where he interacted with players but did not play.

Badrinath remarked, "There have been ongoing questions about his availability before each game. The management has not handled the Dhoni situation effectively. It's unclear whether this is a strategy to generate interest or a business decision. Is this part of a larger plan?" He also raised doubts about the potential succession of Ravindra Jadeja as captain, questioning whether Dhoni had any input in the decision to promote Ruturaj Gaikwad.

"It's uncertain if MS Dhoni actually wanted Ruturaj Gaikwad to take over as captain. This decision should not solely rest on Dhoni; it must be a management decision. If Dhoni had any influence, he would likely have recommended Ravindra Jadeja as the next captain," Badrinath stated.

CSK's performance in the 2026 season has been disappointing, with slim chances of reaching the playoffs. Badrinath criticized the team's recruitment strategy, stating, "Players like Brevis, Mhatre, and Urvil Patel were merely replacements. CSK was fortunate to acquire them without any strategic planning. Even a notable player like Sanju Samson was obtained through a trade that cost them Jadeja and Sam Curran. Their decisions have not been effective in isolation," he concluded.