Bad Test figure: MS Dhoni on CSK’s IPL slump

Chennai Super Kings have endured two tough seasons in the Indian Premier League, but MS Dhoni believes the team’s performances can also serve as a test of character. Acknowledging that CSK have not performed well in recent years, the veteran wicketkeeper-batsman said the focus now needs to be on identifying areas of improvement and ensuring the team is better prepared for future challenges.

Speaking at a health event in Bengaluru, Dhoni drew a parallel between the ups and downs of life and the challenges faced by a sports team. The former India captain said that CSK always knew that their successful run would eventually give way to tough times, adding that a team’s true character will show when results don’t go their way.

“The last two years, you know, we’ve struggled and that’s a fact. You know, there’s no point in avoiding the fact that RCB has done really, really well. And you know that’s life. You have good times, you have bad times, but you know how you come out of it, what are the things you want to work on as a team, those are the key things,” Dhoni.

“Because, you know, when we’re winning, we knew there was going to be a point where we started losing, and the real test of character is when you’re not doing well.

CSK have struggled to maintain the consistency that has made them one of the most successful teams in IPL history. Their recent troubles have also coincided with a transition period as the franchise tries to rebuild after missing out on the playoffs in IPL 2026.

MS DHONI CONFIRMS RCB

Dhoni lauded Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s recent performances while acknowledging that CSK had fallen behind in the same period. RCB, who have enjoyed consistent success in recent seasons, provided a point of comparison as Dhoni reflected on the contrasting fortunes of the two teams.

However, the 45-year-old stressed that CSK must focus on what they can control rather than dwelling on their recent results. Among the factors he identified as important to the team’s improvement were keeping injuries at bay, ensuring players stay fit throughout the tournament and clarifying individual roles.

“So, you know, RCB, they’ve performed regularly in the last few years and, you know, we haven’t in the last few years. Hopefully we try to prevent injuries, make sure our fit players, you know, are available throughout the tournament and that makes life a little bit easier, you know, when people understand their role and responsibility,” he said.

IS MS DHONI RETIRING?

Dhoni’s comments on CSK’s struggle came at a time when uncertainty still surrounds his own future in the IPL. The former India captain has missed the entire 2026 season due to a calf problem, with his fitness and availability becoming major issues as Chennai look to secure a place in the play-offs.

At the event in Bengaluru, Dhoni offered one of his clearest indications yet that he might consider playing another season. However, he stopped short of confirming his participation in IPL 2027, saying he will assess his fitness and take a call by December.

In his typical humorous style, Dhoni put the onus on the doctors and said their assessment will determine whether his body can withstand another tough IPL campaign.

“Doku, I will have to undergo a 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 as quoted by ANI.

He continued the analogy by describing himself as an old vehicle that will need to be kept in working order for another year.

“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.

CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan also hinted that the franchise remains hopeful of having Dhoni available for next season. He said the final decision rests with the player, who usually informs the management of his plans when he reaches Chennai.

“It’s a question you have to ask him. I also have to ask him. He will inform us of his decision when he comes to Chennai. I feel the chances of him continuing to play for CSK are there. He is still a player, you know,” Viswanathan said.

CSK LOOK TO REBUILD

The uncertainty over Dhoni’s future comes as CSK prepares for a period of change. After missing out on the playoffs in IPL 2026, the franchise made changes to its backroom staff, with Stephen Fleming leaving his position as head coach and Zaheer Khan taking over.

Dhoni, meanwhile, hopes the team can turn its recent struggles into an opportunity to improve. While acknowledging the importance of the results, he also pointed to the entertainment value of the contest and expressed hope that CSK will return to Bengaluru for another highly contested game in 2027.

“So we’re hoping for another close game so that, you know, the next time we come here we can say OK, you know, 2027, we had another close game that was a lot of fun for the crowd because at the end of the day we’re entertainers. You know, we come here and have fun,” he said.

The immediate challenge for CSK will be to turn this outlook into results. Dhoni’s message was clear: the team’s recent problems cannot be ignored, but how it responds to them will matter as much as its past successes.

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