MS Dhoni, 43, has played over 250 IPL matches and led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to five titles. But with the 2026 season looming, questions are growing louder:
Will Dhoni return to the IPL again? Former South African captain Shaun Pollock doesn’t think so.
To millions of Indians, Dhoni isn’t just a cricketer—he’s a habit. His absence would leave more than just a hole in CSK’s batting order; it would feel like cricket itself is a little less… calm. Less certain. Less “Dhoni.”
Pollock’s Honest Take
Speaking to The Times of India, Shaun Pollock said he’d be “very surprised” to see Dhoni playing in 2026. Pollock respects Dhoni’s career, but believes time catches up with even the greatest. “Father Time remains undefeated,” he quipped. And he has a point.
At 42, Dhoni is still fit—but IPL isn’t backyard cricket. It demands elite-level stamina, reflexes, and recovery. Even for a cool-headed finisher like him, every dive, sprint, or stumping takes its toll.
Dhoni Is More Than His Stats
The De.Wall Catch at the Boundary! 💪
Noor and Thala making merry! 🤩#CSKvPBKS #WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/Zxe2bXdOPi— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 30, 2025
But this isn’t just about runs or wickets. Dhoni brings something deeper to CSK. He’s a captain, yes—but also a guide, a strategist, and a silent motivator. When players like Ruturaj Gaikwad speak about Dhoni, it’s less about technique and more about presence. He’s the guy young players look to when the scoreboard looks grim and the crowd goes quiet.
And fans? They don’t cheer for Dhoni like they do others. They worship. It’s rare. It’s raw. And it’s not going away soon.
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What Will Drive His Decision?
Whether Dhoni plays on or not, the choice lies with him. But several factors could shape it:
- Fitness: Can he still train like a pro, recover like one, and play like one?
- Team Strategy: Is CSK planning for the future without him? Or does his role remain vital?
- Motivation: After two decades of top-tier cricket, does Dhoni still feel the fire?
- Family: Staying months away from loved ones takes a toll—mentally more than physically.
All You Need Is Yellove. 💛
Nandri, Superfans for the turnout! 🙏#CSKvPBKS #WhistlePodu 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/x3SDjJ3Q1B— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 30, 2025
Succession Planning at CSK: The Big Question
Let’s address the big yellow elephant in the room: Who comes next? CSK must face the inevitable. While there’s no true replacement for Dhoni, someone must step up. Ruturaj Gaikwad is a strong contender—calm, skilled, and already being groomed.
But replacing Dhoni isn’t just about naming a captain. It’s about transitioning a legacy. And that takes more than strategy—it takes soul.
Final Word: Celebrate the Now
Whether or not we see Dhoni in 2026, let’s focus on this: we are witnessing a legend who turned pressure into poetry. Even if this season is his last, his story will echo in every cheer at Chepauk and every six that sails into the Chennai night.
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