MS Dhoni’s future in IPL has once again become a major point of discussion after former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa suggested that IPL 2026 could mark the end of Dhoni’s illustrious career with Chennai Super Kings. In an interview on JioHotstar’s TATA IPL: Out or Out of the Park, Uthappa offered an in-depth look at Dhoni’s evolving role, the transition to leadership at CSK and what the upcoming season could mean for the franchise icon.According to Uthappa, Dhoni’s role is expected to evolve significantly in the coming season. Rather than being a central figure on the field, he could take a step back and act more as a guide for Ruturaj as captain.
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Shashi Tharoor & Samson’s Redemption Story: From Failure to Fame “I don’t think CSK should leave the leadership duties to Sanju Samson. You have to give Ruturaji Gaikwad time to settle in as captain. He is leading the team from 2024. No matter what people say, he is stepping out of MS Dhoni’s shadow. You want him to come out completely and stand in his own light. You want to see what he can do, not play the team and not play for his team when you want him. It’s an overwhelming feeling that I’m always under that energy, so I think you can see Dhoni a bit more off,” said Uthappa Uthappa made a bold and emotional prediction about Dhoni’s future, hinting that the 2026 season could be his farewell. The statement immediately sparked conversations among fans as Dhoni, one of the greatest captains in IPL history, approached the final phase of his playing career.“IPL 2026 will probably be his last year in the yellow jersey. I see him playing more of a mentor-cum-player role this year. I don’t see him batting at number seven. I see him batting at number eight. Knowing he’s on his way out, he wants to retire. I think he will. Only then will we see the real potential Gaik would have if Ruttura doesn’t work for him.” you always have Sanju Samson in the team to handle the captaincy duties.” Robin on dhoni’s role in CSK
MS Dhoni in IPL 2025
MS Dhoni’s IPL 2025 season has been a mixture of evolving responsibilities, flashes of brilliance and growing questions about his role in the transitional Chennai Super Kings setup. Dhoni entered IPL 2025 primarily as a finisher and wicketkeeper, with reduced batting responsibilities compared to his prime. However, his role changed midway through the season when captain Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out due to injury, forcing Dhoni to return to leadership duties.As captain, Dhoni was responsible for leading a struggling CSK side through a difficult campaign, balancing leadership with his limited batting role lower down the order. Dhoni mostly batted in the lower order (No. 7 or below), often coming during the final overs. His role was not to build innings, but to provide quick cameos and finish plays.
Goal perfection continues
Even at the age of 43, Dhoni continued to shine behind the stumps. He achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first wicketkeeper to achieve 200 dismissals in IPL history, further cementing his legacy as one of the best wicketkeepers in the league. However, with the inclusion of Sanju Samson, he could be given the wicket-keeping duties.
