'If MS Dhoni was leading this CSK, team would have been in the playoffs': Ex-Indian cricketer's bold claim

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar made a bold statement on Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and MS Dhoni while discussing the franchise’s disappointing IPL 2026 campaign. With CSK struggling to stay alive in the playoff race this season, Manjrekar claimed that a prime Dhoni leading the current squad would have comfortably guided the five-time champions into the knockouts.

Dhoni, who is currently 44, has once again found himself at the center of retirement discussions as speculation around his future continues to dominate headlines. The CSK legend has spent time on the sidelines this season because of a calf injury, adding further uncertainty regarding whether IPL 2026 could be his final appearance in the tournament.

Manjrekar makes massive MS Dhoni claim amid CSK’s struggles

Speaking about CSK’s campaign, Manjrekar said the franchise would have been in a far better position had Dhoni been at the peak of his powers.

"If Dhoni in his prime was leading this version of CSK, the team would have been in the playoffs," he said.

Manjrekar also admitted that he no longer spends much energy speculating over Dhoni’s retirement, a conversation that has become a recurring topic ever since the former India captain retired from international cricket in 2020.

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Former India batter speaks on Dhoni’s current role at CSK

While praising Dhoni’s unmatched contribution to Indian cricket, Manjrekar also pointed out that the current version of the veteran wicketkeeper-batter is no longer the same player who dominated world cricket for years.

"What he’s done for India is something that I’ll take to bed every time. I just love Mahendra Singh Dhoni for what he did. The current version is a shadow of himself," he added.

Manjrekar further stated that CSK may not have handled the “Dhoni phenomenon” well in recent seasons.

"CSK has handled that Dhoni phenomenon very poorly and as a result just messed up the whole team. So, whether Dhoni plays one last game or not is something for his fans and everyone to like," he said.

CSK remain under pressure in IPL 2026 with their playoff qualification hopes hanging by a thread heading into the final phase of the tournament.