Will IPL 2027 be MS Dhoni’s last dance? The CSK legend comes with a big hint

NEW DELHI: Will MS Dhoni make a comeback in the next season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) or is the former Indian captain close to calling time on his career? Questions surrounding his future continue as fans wait to see if he will play in IPL 2027.Dhoni has now offered a hint of his plans. The 45-year-old said he will first check his fitness before deciding whether he can play another season.He missed the entire IPL 2026 season due to fitness issues, mainly involving his calf.

Dhoni to assess fitness by December

When asked about his plans to play the next IPL season, Dhoni responded with humor while making it clear that his fitness will be the deciding factor.“Doku, I will have to pass the test. You will have to give me a report and then by December I will have to see, you know how strong I am to play one more season,” Dhoni said.He then joked about the responsibility of keeping him fit for the next season.“And if I’m not, then you’re going to have to make sure you do everything right with me and make sure this old vintage vehicle runs well on the road. So all the pressure is on them,” he added.Dhoni’s comments suggest that he might decide on his IPL future by December. However, he did not confirm whether he will return to the field in IPL 2027.

Dhoni’s role in CSK has changed

Dhoni’s role in the Chennai Super Kings batting line-up has gradually diminished over the past few years. He has mostly batted in the final overs, looking to score quick runs and give the fans a glimpse of his trademark power hitting.Even with a lesser role, Dhoni remains one of the leading run-scorers in IPL history. He scored 5,439 runs at an average of 38.30 in 278 matches. His record includes 24 half-centuries in 242 innings.His success as captain was equally impressive. Dhoni led CSK to five IPL titles and also led the franchise to two Champions League T20 titles.

CSK is trying to match Dhoni’s success

CSK have been trying to achieve the same feat ever since Ruturaj Gaikwad took over as captain in 2024.The team finished at the bottom of the table in IPL 2025 before managing to finish eighth in IPL 2026. CSK last won the IPL title in 2023 when Dhoni was in charge.