The future of MS Dhoni in the IPL has once again become a major talking point after former India cricketer Robin Uthappa suggested that IPL 2026 could mark the end of Dhoni’s illustrious career with Chennai Super Kings. Speaking on JioHotstar’s TATA IPL: Out or Out of the Park, Uthappa offered a detailed perspective on Dhoni’s evolving role, leadership transition within CSK, and what the upcoming season could mean for the franchise icon.
According to Uthappa, Dhoni’s role in the upcoming season is expected to evolve significantly. Rather than being a central on-field figure, he could take a step back and operate more as a guide for Ruturaj as Captain.
“I don’t think CSK should hand over the leadership duties to Sanju Samson. You have to give Ruturaj Gaikwad time to settle as captain. He has been leading the team since 2024. No matter what people say, he is coming out of the shadow of MS Dhoni. You want him to come out completely and stand in his own light. You want to see what he can produce. You want him to lead the team when MS is not playing and stand on his own, without that overwhelming feeling of always being under that energy. So I think you can see Dhoni being a little more hands-off,” Uthappa said
Uthappa made a bold and emotional prediction about Dhoni’s future, indicating that the 2026 season could be his farewell.
The statement has immediately sparked conversations among fans, as Dhoni, one of the greatest captains in IPL history edges closer to the final phase of his playing career.
“IPL 2026 is likely to 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 that he is on his way out, he wants to wean himself out.
I think he will do that. Only then will we see the true potential of Ruturaj Gaikwad as captain. Give him a few years. If it doesn’t work, 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 was a mix of evolving responsibility, flashes of brilliance, and growing questions about his role in a transitioning Chennai Super Kings setup. Dhoni entered IPL 2025 primarily as a finisher and wicketkeeper, with reduced batting responsibility compared to his prime years. However, his role changed mid-season when captain Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out due to injury, forcing Dhoni to step back into leadership duties.
As captain, Dhoni was responsible for guiding 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 in during the final overs. His role was not to build innings but to provide quick cameos and finish games.
Wicketkeeping Excellence Continues
Even at 43, Dhoni continued to shine behind the stumps. He achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first wicketkeeper to reach 200 dismissals in IPL history, reinforcing his legacy as one of the greatest keepers in the league. However, with the inclusion of Sanju Samson wicket-keeping duties might be handed over to him.
