MS Dhoni is not expected to play in every match of the Indian Premier League 2026. He is part of the Chennai Super Kings, which has confirmed his availability for the upcoming season.
However, with Sanju Samson on the team, Dhoni will rest for some games during the league.
“We can confirm that he is coming to Chennai for the new season of the IPL,” a senior source from CSK told PTI anonymously.
“Whether he will play in all the games is something we can’t confirm right now,” the source added.
Due to the Impact Player Rule, Dhoni has not batted in the middle overs and has only made brief appearances in the last two seasons.
Besides Dhoni, the team has three other wicket-keepers: Samson, Kartik Sharma, and Urvil Patel. Samson will take the gloves when Dhoni is not playing. Kartik was acquired for INR 14.20 crore and will help finish games alongside all-rounder Shivam Dube.
Dhoni has faced knee and back issues over the years, affecting his speed between the wickets.
He will likely wear the CSK jersey for most home games in Chennai, where his presence excites the crowd, highlighting his connection with the franchise and its supporters.
